Packing list for Argentina, travel insurance for Argentina, and taking your belongings

What to take with you to Argentina: spotlighted

Featured items:

• Documents: passport valid for at least 6 months after arrival and an online and/or offline copy of your passport is also always useful.
• Money: cash is king, so bring Argentinian pesos or USD. You can also use your Debit card.
• Care: high factor sunscreen, aftersun and lip balm. Buff for the cold.
• Protection: sturdy rain gear and waterproof packing cubes. Backpack rain cover.
• Outdoor and practical: travel cap or hat and sunglasses.
• Clothing: layers are king. Argentina has a huge variety of climates and weather conditions, so from warm to cold. Bring thick socks, a hat, gloves and a scarf for Patagonia. Light, airy clothing for the rainforest and stylish clothes for Buenos Aires.
• Shoes: comfortable sneakers/hiking shoes and good hiking boots if you are going to Patagonia. Flip-flops or sandals for the relaxed days. Medicines and travel kit: a small first aid kit with plasters, painkillers, blister plasters, hand sanitizer, ORS and mosquito repellent.
• Technology and equipment: world plug with type C & I and a power bank.

What are some other options for packing as well?

• Reusable water bottle with filter, because tap water is technically drinkable, but often tastes strange.
• Quick-drying travel towel.
• Bring hiking essentials, just in case (such as hiking poles, compass, tent, sleeping bag, headlamp or flashlight, etc.).
• Small umbrella.
• E-reader or offline entertainment for mountain adventures.
• International driving license.
• Sleeping bag liner.

What should you keep in mind when traveling to Argentina with your belongings?

• That the weather conditions can vary greatly depending on where you go and the weather can change quickly.
• That fashion is a thing in Argentina, especially in the cities.

Are there mosquitoes in Argentina?

• Mosquitoes are everywhere in Argentina and are active all year round. During the warm months and the rainy season, from October to March, there are usually more mosquitoes.
• In the high/cold areas you will have fewer or even no mosquitoes.
• In Buenos Aires mosquitoes can also be a huge problem during the rainy season.
• Mosquitoes are a health hazard because they can carry various diseases. Dengue fever is particularly common.

Are there sandflies in Argentina?

• There are sand flies in Argentina. In the north they are known for transmitting leishmaniasis.
• The hotspots for leishmaniasis are the provinces of Salta, Jujuy, Catamarca and Santiago del Estero.

Can you buy DEET, or other mosquito repellents, in Argentina?

• DEET and other mosquito repellents are generally readily available in Argentina, although shortages can occur during severe mosquito outbreaks.
• OFF and Fuyi are popular brands of mosquito repellent, available at pharmacies and supermarkets. 
• When you want to be sure that you have mosquito repellent, especially during the rainy season in Argentina, bring your own.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Argentina, or take it with you to Argentina?

• Argentina is quite progressive. Possession of small amounts for personal use has been decriminalized (so not legal), but the rules are vague and vary by region.
• Buying or using in public is still illegal and can get you into a lot of trouble.
• Moral of the story: if you do it, keep it discreet and private. And no, a hostel terrace does not count as “private”. Better be safe than sorry.
• Medical marijuana is legal with the right papers. But do not bring cannabis into the country.