What Should You Pack for Brazil?
Brazil’s warm climate calls for light, breathable clothing. For spring and summer, pack shorts, dresses, and tank tops to stay cool. In winter, you’ll need a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings, but still, keep things lightweight. For the beach, don’t forget your swimsuit, a coverup, and flip-flops. Layering is key if you’re visiting different regions, as temperatures can vary.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Rio de Janeiro, relaxing on Ipanema Beach, visiting the Amazon Rainforest, hiking in Chapada Diamantina National Park, and enjoying Carnival festivals.
What to Wear in Brazil
Brazilians generally dress casually, but with a sense of style. For the beach, swimsuits and sarongs are common, but cover up when walking through the city. In big cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, casual-chic is the norm—jeans, dresses, and stylish sandals work well. If you’re attending Carnival, be ready for colorful costumes and festive attire!
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Spring
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Summer
75 – 95°F
(24 – 35°C
)
Fall
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Winter
60 – 75°F
(15 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm and tropical with occasional rain.
Summer: Hot and humid, with frequent rain in the afternoon.
Fall: Warm with less rain than in summer.
Winter: Mild, some rain.
Spring
5.4 inches of rain
Summer
7.8 inches of rain
Fall
4.9 inches of rain
Winter
3.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying cool while exploring Rio’s vibrant streets—I loved having these for sunny days.
2. Tank Tops: Great for hot afternoons spent on the beach or sightseeing.
3. Long Sleeve Shirts: Useful for cooler evenings, especially in cities like São Paulo.
4. Casual Jacket: Ideal for evening walks or breezy days along the coastline.
5. Hoodie: Perfect for cozying up on chillier days in the southern regions.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Ideal for casual outings and evenings—I really liked wearing mine in São Paulo.
2. Shorts: Perfect for warm, tropical weather and long walks along the beach.
3. Dresses: Great for casual dining or strolling around town—I always go for a flowy style in Rio!
4. Leggings: Comfortable for travel or hiking days.
5. Jumpsuit: A stylish option for nights out in the city.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration—I always bring a good pair for days in Rio.
2. Flip Flops: Essential for the beach and tropical areas—I loved these for walking along Copacabana Beach.
3. Swimsuit: A must-have for the beach and hotel pools.
4. Beach Coverup: Perfect for transitioning from the beach to a nearby café.
5. Sunglasses: These really help keep the sun out of your eyes on those bright afternoons!
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips or flights between cities in Brazil.
2. Daypack: Perfect for hiking in the national parks or exploring the streets of Salvador.
3. Purse: A small, secure bag for carrying essentials while walking around Rio’s neighborhoods.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light, breathable fabrics: The climate can be very warm and humid.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you visit Rio or hike.
- Bug spray: Essential for jungle visits or coastal areas with mosquitos.
- Swimsuit and coverup: Beaches are a big part of Brazilian culture, so pack accordingly!
Brazil Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BRAZIL?
September to November is the best time to visit Brazil. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with fewer crowds, and the major cities host exciting cultural events.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN BRAZIL?
Carnival (February/March): Brazil’s largest festival with vibrant parades, music, and dancing, ideal for couples and groups.
São João Festival (June): A celebration of Brazilian rural life with traditional dance, music, and food, great for families.
New Year’s Eve (December): Fireworks and beach parties, popular among solo travelers and groups.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN BRAZIL?
One of my favorite places is Rio de Janeiro for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. You should also explore the Amazon Rainforest, visit Iguazu Falls, and the Pantanal. São Paulo offers a cosmopolitan experience, while Salvador is known for its Afro-Brazilian culture.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT BRAZIL?
You need at least 10-14 days to fully experience Brazil’s diverse regions, including its cities, rainforests, and beaches.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore the beaches of Rio, visit Christ the Redeemer, and enjoy dinner in Copacabana. Day 2: Take a day trip to Sugarloaf Mountain, followed by a sunset stroll on Ipanema Beach.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: Day 3: Visit the historic center of Salvador. Day 4: Fly to Iguazu Falls for breathtaking waterfalls. Day 5: Take a boat tour in the Amazon.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Day 6: Visit São Paulo’s art museums and parks. Day 7: Spend the day at Ilha Grande for hiking and snorkeling.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: Day 8: Explore the Pantanal for wildlife spotting. Day 9: Enjoy Fortaleza’s beaches. Day 10: Take a river cruise in the Amazon.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: Day 11: Visit Ouro Preto for colonial history. Day 12: Relax in Búzios. Day 13: Explore Manaus and the Amazon. Day 14: Enjoy Recife’s beaches.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN BRAZIL?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR BRAZIL?
Heavy coats: The weather is warm in most regions.
Expensive jewelry: Not needed and could be risky in crowded tourist areas.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO BRAZIL ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on season and starting location. Prices are higher during Carnival.
Accommodation: $50-$300 per night depending on the city. Hotels near the beach tend to be more expensive.
Transportation: $30-$100 for buses, taxis, or car rentals. Public transportation is affordable, but taxis can be costly in tourist areas.
Meals: $20-$80 per day depending on dining choices. Street food is delicious and affordable in many areas.
Activities: $50-$150 per day, with costs varying based on tours, tickets, and excursions.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN BRAZIL? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Brazil. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is usually added to the bill, but you can leave extra for exceptional service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BRAZIL BEFORE I VISIT?
- Bring sunscreen: The sun is intense, especially in coastal regions.
- Use mosquito repellent: Necessary in the Amazon and other jungle areas.
- Stay hydrated: Brazil’s hot climate can lead to dehydration, so keep a water bottle with you.