Jungle Packing Tips

For an Amazon adventure trip everyone should pack accordingly. Except for the occasional internal flight, we’ll be taking canoes, kayaks, jeeps, vans and our own feet between destinations. A sturdy internal frame backpack is convenient for this form of travel; a strong duffel bag works well, and some people get by fine with a rolling suitcase (although we don’t really recommend the latter). Remember, we may have to carry our bags short distances and if you can put everything on your back you’ll be happiest! Besides a pack or duffel bag, a small day pack is advised, although you can purchase a locally made bag in Lima or Quito when we arrive. Below is a suggested packing list. It is not necessarily comprehensive and some travelers manage taking much less.

ESSENTIALS

• One backpack, sturdy duffel bag, or easily managed suitcase.
• Daypack
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots comfortable for walking
• Sandals or shoes you don’t mind getting wet
• Money belt or pouch. Leave your wallet at home – they make easy targets for pickpockets in the city.
• Personal medications
• Camera, film, and waterproof case
• Clothing – Generally, the Amazon is quite hot, but during the evenings if it rains, it can cool down quite a bit. Fast drying clothes that can be layered work best.
  
• The The following is a suggested list of clothing:
  • Light, water-resistant jacket that will keep you warm on a cool evening or during a sudden downpour, yet can be stuffed away or worn loosely on a warm day
  • Cheap rain poncho – the lodges have ponchos, but it’s best to be prepared!
  • Fleece or wool sweater
  • Two pair of shorts and/or swimming trunks
  • Bathing suit
  • One to two pairs of pants – one that can be worn to a nice restaurant or club, and another rugged pair for hiking in the rainforest
  • One long sleeve shirt or blouse and 2-3 short sleeve shirts – a long sleeve cotton shirt is great for the jungle.
  • Three pair of cotton socks
  • Underwear
    

ADDITIONAL USEFUL ITEMS

• Contact lenses
• Extra pair of eye-glasses
• Anti-bacterial soap, toilettes, or gel such as Purell
• Sunblock of at least 15 SPF – the tropical sun is strong
• Insect repellant with DEET (diethyl-metatoluamide)
• Anti-itch cream for insects bites
• Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, toiletries, etc
• Sunglasses
• Swiss army style knife
• Sun/ rain hat
• Plastic bags (zip lock bags and a larger trash bag)
• Water bottle
• Small padlock to lock your bag shut
• Travel alarm clock
• Writing materials for traveling thoughts and addresses
• First Aid Kit that might include:
  • Pepto-bismol for mild diarrhea
  • Throat lozenges
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Sunburn salve such as aloe vera gel
  • Aspirin or other pain killer
  • Antibiotics for travelers diarrhea (TD)
  • Antacid tablets
  • Band-Aids
  • Ace Bandage
  • Mole skin for blister