
What Should You Pack for Santiago?
Santiago’s weather changes with the seasons, so packing accordingly is key! In spring and fall, you’ll need a light jacket or sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings. Summers can be quite hot, so breathable clothing and sunscreen are a must. Winters are cold and rainy, so pack a warm coat, scarves, and gloves for when you’re out exploring. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for climbing Cerro San Cristóbal or walking through the city’s lively neighborhoods.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Cerro San Cristóbal, visiting La Moneda Palace, taking a day trip to the Andes, walking through Barrio Bellavista, and touring museums like the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.
Dress Code
Santiago is a casual but stylish city, where people dress practically but with a touch of flair. Jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes are perfect for everyday activities. If you’re visiting any museums or planning to dine at upscale restaurants, consider packing a nice dress or slacks for a polished look. For outdoor activities like hiking in the Andes or visiting vineyards, opt for activewear and layers to stay comfortable. During summer festivals, light and breathable clothing is key.
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Spring
45 – 75°F
(7 – 24°C
)
Summer
55 – 85°F
(13 – 29°C
)
Fall
45 – 70°F
(7 – 21°C
)
Winter
35 – 55°F
(2 – 13°C
)
Spring: Mild and pleasant
Summer: Hot and sunny, with dry conditions
Fall: Mild and cool, with sunny days
Winter: Cold with occasional rain and overcast skies
Spring
1.5 inches of rain
Summer
0.2 inches of rain
Fall
1.8 inches of rain
Winter
3.5 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for layering or wearing on hot summer days—I loved having these while exploring the city!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when visiting museums.
3. Sweaters: Essential for layering in spring and fall, especially for early morning walks.
4. Tank Tops: Great for hot summer days when exploring Santiago’s vibrant streets.
5. Casual Jacket: Ideal for cooler evenings and springtime outdoor activities.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and practical for exploring the city—I loved these for walking around Santiago’s parks!
2. Leggings: Perfect for layering or for active days spent hiking in the Andes.
3. Shorts: Useful for the hot summer days, perfect for relaxing in the parks or exploring local markets.
4. Dresses: Ideal for evenings out in Santiago’s stylish neighborhoods or dining at upscale restaurants.
5. Skirt: A versatile option for both casual outings and dressier events.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Santiago’s city streets—I really liked these for walking up Cerro San Cristóbal!
2. Flats: Perfect for dressing up your outfits while still being comfortable.
3. Sandals: Great for hot summer days spent wandering around Barrio Bellavista.
4. Hat: Perfect for sun protection during outdoor activities and city tours.
5. Sunglasses: Essential for the bright Santiago sun.
6. Swimsuit: Ideal for poolside lounging or a day trip to nearby beaches.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend trip or keeping your essentials close during your travels.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying water, sunscreen, and snacks while exploring Santiago’s neighborhoods and parks.
3. Purse: A stylish option for keeping your personal items safe while enjoying the city’s restaurants and cafes.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying extra layers or shopping finds from Santiago’s local markets.
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
- Layers: Santiago’s temperatures can vary during the day, especially in spring and fall, so packing layers is the best way to stay comfortable.
- Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re hiking in the Andes or exploring Barrio Bellavista, comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Smart-casual outfits: While casual wear is fine for most activities, packing a smart-casual outfit is great for nicer dinners and city nights out.
- Sun protection: Santiago’s summer sun can be intense, so don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Santiago Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SANTIAGO?
March is the best month to visit Santiago because the weather is warm, and the summer heat has started to cool down. March is also great because it’s harvest season in the nearby wine regions, making it ideal for wine lovers!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SANTIAGO?
Festival de Viña del Mar (February): A large music festival held near Santiago, perfect for couples and groups.
Fiestas Patrias (September): Chile’s Independence Day celebrations with parades, traditional foods, and cultural events, great for families and solo travelers.
Santiago a Mil (January): A city-wide performing arts festival showcasing theater, music, and dance, ideal for art lovers and tourists.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SANTIAGO?
Santiago offers a rich blend of modern and historical sites. One of my favorite spots is Cerro San Cristóbal, where you can hike to the top for a panoramic view of the city. The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art is a must-see for history buffs, and Barrio Bellavista is the place to go for vibrant nightlife and street art. Don’t miss a visit to La Moneda Palace, the seat of Chilean government, and take a day trip to the nearby Andes for breathtaking mountain views.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SANTIAGO?
4-5 days is ideal to experience Santiago’s diverse neighborhoods, museums, and nearby mountains. A weekend is enough to cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore Cerro San Cristóbal, visit La Moneda Palace, and have dinner in Barrio Bellavista. On day two, tour the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, stroll through Plaza de Armas, and visit the Central Market for local seafood.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral and tour the wine region of Maipo Valley. On day four, hike in the nearby Andes for breathtaking views. On day five, explore the museums in the Lastarria district and enjoy a final dinner in the city center.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, take a day trip to Valparaíso to explore its colorful streets and artistic culture. On day seven, visit the wineries in Casablanca Valley and relax at one of Santiago’s parks.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the Chiloé archipelago for a taste of southern Chilean culture. Spend day nine exploring the Atacama Desert. On day ten, relax and enjoy Santiago’s vibrant local cafes and artisan markets.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the Lakes District for outdoor adventures. On day twelve, take a trip to the Torres del Paine National Park for stunning hiking and natural beauty. Use the remaining days to explore Santiago’s lesser-known neighborhoods.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SANTIAGO?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SANTIAGO?
Heavy winter boots: Santiago’s winters are mild, so heavy boots are unnecessary unless you’re visiting the Andes.
Thick coats: Layers work better in Santiago, as the temperature fluctuates throughout the day.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SANTIAGO ?
Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on your starting location and time of year. Prices are highest during the summer months of January and February.
Accommodation: $70-$200 per night depending on the location and time of year. Hotel rates are higher during festival times.
Transportation: $30-$80 for taxis, public transit, and day trips, but Santiago’s public transportation system is very affordable and efficient.
Meals: $30-$70 per day depending on whether you dine at local markets or upscale restaurants.
Activities: $20-$60 per day for museums, tours, and day trips to the nearby wine regions or mountains.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SANTIAGO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is expected in Santiago. It’s typical to leave 10% in restaurants and cafes, and small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and taxi drivers.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SANTIAGO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Public transportation is reliable: Santiago’s Metro and buses are efficient, so they’re a great way to get around the city.
- Bring layers: Santiago’s weather can vary significantly between day and night, so always have an extra layer on hand.
- Street markets are a must: Don’t miss visiting Santiago’s street markets like La Vega Central, where you can buy fresh produce and local snacks.
- Be prepared for sun: Santiago’s summer sun is intense, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities.