When planning a trip to Patagonia, visions of towering mountains, glacial lakes, and vast landscapes fill your mind. But for many, especially those venturing there for the first time, the immediate next thought is: what on earth do I pack? You might find yourself lost in a sea of generic packing lists, none quite hitting the mark for your specific adventure. Finding a truly useful Summer Gear For Travel Patagonia guide online can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
During my initial trip to Patagonia, I felt this exact frustration. Despite countless hours online, a tailored packing list seemed elusive. My first backpack was heavily influenced by previous travels across South America, carrying gear for diverse climates and altitudes. It was functional, but not optimized for the unique conditions of Patagonia.
However, subsequent trips, totaling around six months spent exploring this magnificent region, transformed me into a seasoned Patagonia packer. I’ve hiked its trails, camped under its stars, and experienced its unpredictable weather firsthand. This experience culminated in a comprehensive 15,000-word guide to traveling Patagonia and a curated list of favorite Patagonia destinations. Now, I’m sharing my expertise to help you specifically prepare your summer gear for travel Patagonia.
Woman overlooking a Patagonian landscape, highlighting the need for appropriate summer gear for travel Patagonia
This guide is designed to be your definitive resource for packing for Patagonia during the summer months (December to February in the Southern Hemisphere). It’s crafted for travelers intending to explore and hike, potentially including iconic treks like the W Trek in Torres del Paine or camping adventures. Whether your trip is a week or a month long, this summer gear for travel Patagonia list will ensure you are well-prepared. I’ll break down essential items from desirable luxuries, understanding that every traveler has different needs and budgets.
While budget-conscious travel is often a priority, especially for backpackers, I advocate for prioritizing lightweight gear, particularly for trekking and camping. Investing in quality, lighter equipment, though sometimes pricier, drastically enhances comfort on long hikes. My personal experience has taught me that carrying a lighter tent or backpack on trails like the Torres del Paine Circuit is invaluable. Remember, with trekking gear, you truly get what you pay for – not just in durability but also in reducing physical strain.
Therefore, I’ll highlight some recommended camping gear options that are lightweight without compromising on performance. Reducing pack weight from 3kg to 1.5kg for a tent, for example, makes a significant difference over multiple days of hiking.
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What previous clients have said:
“It’s refreshing to find someone with insider knowledge that can take you off the beaten track, away from the mainstream. I particularly liked the detail you give; where to stay and your favourite places. We stayed in some lovely places because of your knowledge, places that we would probably never have found. I also liked the fact that we could ask you questions whilst on the move. Lots to like Steph!”
Sharon, United Kingdom
Traveled to Patagonia, January to February 2019
Lastly, while this summer gear for travel Patagonia list is created from a female traveler’s perspective (and yes, I do pack slightly heavier than some, especially regarding underwear!), the advice is adaptable for all genders. It’s about functional, practical gear for summer in Patagonia, regardless of who is packing it.
For further reading to aid your Patagonia trip planning, you can also check out my complete South America packing list if your travels extend beyond Patagonia.
Choosing Your Luggage: Rucksacks and Suitcases for Patagonia in Summer
Suitcases for Patagonia Summer Travel
For those who prioritize ease of movement, particularly in urban settings or when transfers involve smooth surfaces, a wheeled suitcase can be convenient. If you opt for a suitcase, the LEVEL8 brand is highly recommended. They are available in 41L, 68L, and 108L sizes, offering ample space. The standout feature is the triple-zipped compartments, which make organization incredibly efficient.
LEVEL8 suitcases are designed to be lightweight, maximizing your packing capacity without exceeding airline weight limits. They are easy to maneuver, and crucially, you can even pack a smaller daypack inside for excursions once you reach your destination.
Rucksacks for Summer Patagonia Adventures
If your summer Patagonia trip involves hiking, especially multi-day treks, or frequent travel between locations, a rucksack is indispensable. For exploring Patagonia in summer, and particularly for activities like hiking, a well-fitted rucksack is a key piece of summer gear for travel Patagonia.
Finding a rucksack that fits properly is crucial, especially for those with shorter torsos. An ill-fitting backpack can lead to significant discomfort and strain during long hikes. When I began backpacking in South America in 2014, I invested in a Berghaus Torridon Women’s 60 litre rucksack and a Lowe Alpine Eclipse 22l daypack. Both have proven to be reliable companions on numerous adventures.
A hiker with a rucksack in Patagonia, illustrating the importance of choosing the right rucksack for summer gear for travel Patagonia
The Berghaus Torridon 60-litre rucksack is particularly commendable because of its women’s specific fit and adjustable back system. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, a 60-litre pack is an ideal size if you are camping and carrying all your equipment. Features like an integrated rain cover and large side pockets (perfect for two-liter water bottles) add to its functionality for hiking.
While Berghaus might be less accessible in the US, Osprey is an excellent alternative brand, known for durability and reliability. Though slightly pricier, Osprey rucksacks are a worthwhile investment.
Patagonia packing list for summer: rucksacks and suitcases.
Daypacks for Summer Patagonia Hikes and City Exploration
For day hikes and city explorations in Patagonia during summer, a smaller daypack is essential. The Lowe Alpine 25-litre pack has been my go-to. It’s also perfectly sized as carry-on luggage for overnight buses in Patagonia, comfortably fitting my camera and laptop.
A crucial feature for any daypack, especially for hiking, is an adjustable waist strap. This feature significantly enhances comfort by distributing weight evenly. The Lowe Alpine daypack also includes a rain cover and smaller pockets for essentials like keys or lip balm. However, for multi-day hikes, you’ll need something larger.
For US readers, good alternatives to Lowe Alpine are Osprey daypacks. When choosing a daypack for your summer gear for travel Patagonia, aim for a capacity of no more than 40 liters. This size is sufficient for day hikes and even for the W Trek in Torres del Paine, provided you are staying in refugios and self-catering.
Patagonia packing list for summer: day packs.
Keep Reading: The Complete Guide to Visiting Torres del Paine: For Hikers and Day Trippers Alike
Summer Clothing Essentials for Patagonia
Tops and Sweaters for Layering in Summer Patagonia
Layering is the golden rule for dressing in Patagonia, even in summer. Patagonia’s weather, while milder in summer, can still be unpredictable. For my summer trips in February and March, I found that a combination of long and short-sleeved tops, along with a couple of light fleeces, was ideal. This layering system allows you to adapt quickly to temperature changes and varying weather conditions. Breathable layers are key for summer gear for travel Patagonia to manage fluctuating temperatures.
A long-sleeved shirt is also a versatile addition. It works well for hiking, providing sun protection, and can also be worn as a more presentable top for evenings in town.
Gore-Tex Waterproof Jacket: A Summer Essential in Patagonia
Rain is a reality in Patagonia, often arriving without much warning, even in summer. A high-quality Gore-Tex waterproof jacket is not just recommended—it’s an essential piece of summer gear for travel Patagonia. Besides keeping you dry, Gore-Tex is breathable, preventing overheating during hikes.
My Sprayway Gore-Tex jacket has been a reliable choice, though no longer available. A fantastic alternative is the Patagonia Storm10. Perfect for trekking in Patagonia, it features a hood that cinches tightly to protect your face from rain. It’s a three-layer waterproof jacket made from 100% recycled nylon, remarkably thin and lightweight, which is excellent for layering over fleeces or down jackets. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, breathability and packability are crucial, and the Storm10 excels in both.
For men, the men’s version of the Patagonia Storm10 or the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L are excellent options. Arc’teryx is also highly regarded for waterproof jackets, though they are a premium investment.
For budget-conscious travelers, The North Face Alta Vista jacket (for women and men) offers a breathable and lightweight option at a more affordable price point. REI’s own brand jackets, like this one, are also worth considering for good value waterproof protection. In the UK, Alpkit provides excellent value, high-quality hiking gear.
Patagonia packing list for summer: waterproof jackets.
A person in a waterproof jacket in a Patagonian landscape, emphasizing the need for waterproof summer gear for travel Patagonia
Warm Fleece Layer: Essential for Summer Evenings in Patagonia
A fleece sweater is indispensable for summer gear for travel Patagonia. Fleece is excellent for trapping body heat while remaining lightweight, making it perfect for hiking. Even in summer, temperatures can drop, especially in the evenings or at higher altitudes. I always carry a fleece, even in summer, as a sudden change in weather is always possible in Patagonia.
Patagonia packing list for summer: fleece sweater.
Down Jacket: Lightweight Warmth for Summer Patagonia Nights
A lightweight synthetic down jacket (not pictured) is another valuable layer for summer gear for travel Patagonia. It provides significant warmth for chilly evenings and can be worn under a waterproof jacket for extra insulation. The Jack Wolfskin down jacket is a great choice, filled with responsibly sourced 700-fill down, offering excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. It packs down small, making it easy to carry.
When choosing a down jacket, consider synthetic fill options as well. While real down (goose or duck feathers) offers superior warmth-to-weight, synthetic down is more water-resistant, crucial in Patagonia’s potentially damp conditions. REI offers a helpful guide to buying down jackets. Prioritize water-resistant or synthetic down, as goose feathers lose their insulating properties when wet, a common concern in Patagonia.
Patagonia packing list for summer: down jacket.
Trousers, Shorts, and Leggings for Summer Hiking in Patagonia
Zip-off hiking trousers are incredibly practical for summer gear for travel Patagonia. Their versatility is unmatched, allowing you to switch from trousers to shorts quickly as temperatures change during a hike. I recommend packing two pairs. Look for quick-dry hiking trousers, as damp trousers are uncomfortable and can lead to chafing.
prAna is known for durable women’s hiking trousers, while REI offers excellent men’s options like these.
Leggings are another must-have. I pack three pairs: two for hiking (one to wear alone, one as a base layer under shorts) and one for sleeping or relaxing. Leggings are also excellent for long bus journeys in Patagonia, providing warmth and comfort.
Patagonia packing list for summer: hiking pants and leggings.
Hiking trousers and leggings laid out, showing versatile summer gear for travel Patagonia
Other Essential Summer Clothing Accessories for Patagonia
A scarf, though perhaps not for hiking itself, is a useful item in your summer gear for travel Patagonia. It serves as an extra layer of warmth on buses or when facing strong winds, and can also protect your face from dust or sun.
A versatile Buff headband is also highly recommended. Made from lightweight fabric, it can be worn in multiple ways to protect your head from the sun or provide neck warmth on windy days – essential for summer gear for travel Patagonia for sun and wind protection.
Chilean Tierra del Fuego: The Remote Patagonia You’ve Been Looking For
A microfibre travel towel is indispensable. Lightweight and quick-drying, it’s a far superior choice to bulky bath towels. Even a basic, inexpensive microfibre towel is perfectly adequate for travel.
Don’t forget a warm hat and gloves, especially for cooler evenings or higher altitudes, even in summer. Pack four pairs of liner socks and three pairs of thicker outer socks for hiking. Wearing two pairs of socks can help prevent blisters, but ensure your hiking boots fit well with this sock combination. Merino wool socks are excellent for wicking moisture and reducing odor. Bridgedale and Darn Tough are reputable sock brands.
Of course, underwear, bras, and a bikini for potential hot spring visits should also be on your list.
A Scrubba wash bag, useful for laundry while traveling in Patagonia during summer
For laundry, the Scrubba wash bag is a fantastic tool. It allows you to wash underwear, t-shirts, and even trousers quickly and efficiently, especially useful when laundry services are inconvenient or expensive.
Patagonia packing list for summer: other essential clothing.
- Microfibre travel towel: Get it on REI|Amazon
- Buff scarf/headband: Get a Buff on REI|Amazon
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Socks: Bridgedale (liner and outer socks) or Darn Tough for both liner socks (REI|Darn Tough|Amazon) and outer socks (REI|Darn Tough|Amazon)
- Underwear (x7)
- Bra (x3 or 4)
- Bikini/swimming suit
- Scrubba for washing your clothes (Amazon)
Underwear as part of a Patagonia packing list, highlighting essential summer gear for travel Patagonia
Thermal Underwear: For Cooler Summer Nights in Patagonia
While not strictly essential for summer, thermal underwear can be valuable if you feel the cold easily or plan to camp, especially at higher elevations where summer nights can be chilly. Under Armour is a reputable brand for thermal wear. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, consider thermals if you anticipate camping or cooler evenings.
Temperatures can approach freezing at night in Patagonia, even in summer. I found thermals essential when camping in Queulat National Park and during the Circuit trek in Torres del Paine, where campsites like Paso can get very cold at night.
Patagonia packing list for summer: thermal underwear.
Footwear and Packing Accessories for Summer Patagonia Travel
Footwear for Summer Patagonia Hiking
Hiking footwear is always a debated topic for Patagonia packing lists. For my two-year backpacking trip, I chose full hiking boots. While heavier than hiking shoes, hiking boots offer superior ankle support and more robust soles. However, many backpackers opt for lighter hiking shoes. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, consider the type of hiking you plan to do when choosing footwear.
Hiking Boots: Ankle Support for Summer Treks
I am a strong advocate for hiking boots. The ankle support they provide is crucial, especially on uneven terrain. During a trip to Ushuaia, my Salomon hiking boots protected my ankle during a twist, potentially preventing a more serious injury.
Hiking boots, an important part of summer gear for travel Patagonia for trekking
My Salomon boots are also blister-free for me, likely due to their narrow fit. They are made from a fabric outer shell, making them waterproof yet more breathable and lighter than leather boots. Breathability is key for summer gear for travel Patagonia to keep your feet comfortable during hikes.
The necessity of hiking boots versus shoes depends on your planned activities. For town explorations and short day hikes, hiking shoes might suffice. However, for longer treks, investing in good hiking boots is highly recommended. Consider the terrain; popular hiking areas like Torres del Paine and the Laguna de Los Tres trail near El Chalten have uneven sections where ankle support is vital.
Keep Reading: Patagonia on a Budget and How to Explore the Region For Less
Always try on hiking boots in a shop before purchasing, or ensure you can return online orders. Wear hiking socks when trying them on and walk around for at least 10 minutes to assess the fit. Crucially, never embark on a long trek in brand-new boots. Break them in with shorter hikes first to prevent blisters.
In addition to hiking boots, Teva sandals are a game-changer. Incredibly comfortable for city walking and light trails, they are also ideal for camping—easy to slip on for nighttime bathroom trips and great for water crossings or beaches. Teva sandals are versatile summer gear for travel Patagonia.
Trekking poles are also invaluable, reducing strain on hips and knees, particularly on steep sections like parts of the W Trek. REI offers a helpful guide on choosing trekking poles.
Patagonia packing list for summer: footwear essentials.
Packing Accessories: Keeping Gear Dry in Summer Patagonia
Dry bags are an often-overlooked but essential part of summer gear for travel Patagonia. They are crucial for protecting electronics and sensitive items from rain and moisture, whether hiking or traveling between locations. During my travels in South America, dry bags proved invaluable, even protecting my passport and camera during Amazon rafting trips.
I recommend three dry bags: a large one for a down sleeping bag, a medium one for a laptop, and a small one for other electronics. Sea to Summit dry bags are highly recommended.
Compression sacks are excellent for clothes, maximizing space in your rucksack. A survival bag is also useful—it can serve as a groundsheet for outdoor lunches, a rucksack liner, or emergency gear.
Patagonia packing list for summer: essential packing accessories.
Technology for Summer Travel in Patagonia
Having reliable technology is crucial for modern travel. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, ensure your tech is practical and useful. Check out my guide to free apps for adventure travel in South America for useful tools.
Keep Reading: The Best Travel Water Filters for Every Budget [2020]
Technology items for travel, including a camera, power bank, and adapter, essential summer gear for travel Patagonia
A power bank and high-speed charging cable are essential for keeping devices charged, especially for navigation. An adaptor plug is also necessary due to varying socket types in Argentina (Type C and I) and Chile (Type C).
A Swiss Army knife is always useful, featuring scissors, a bottle opener, and various blades. A padlock for hostel lockers, a headlamp (Black Diamond is a great brand), and a pack of cards for downtime are also recommended. A bite pen can relieve insect bite itchiness, though remember spare batteries.
For cameras, while I travel with a Sony A7iii DSLR and a versatile 24-105mm lens, a point-and-shoot camera like the Canon Powershot is often sufficient and lighter for most travelers. It offers excellent image quality in a compact, user-friendly package.
Keep Reading: The 15 Best Hikes in Patagonia that You Can Do Without a Guide
Patagonia packing list for summer: technology essentials.
- Power bank; Ankor is a great brand (Amazon), REI offers a solar power bank.
- Rapid charging cable
- Universal adaptor plug; Amazon
- Swiss Army penknife; REI|Amazon
- Padlock; Amazon
- Headlamp; Black Diamond headlamps (REI|Backcountry|Black Diamond)
- A pack of cards
- Bite pen; Amazon
- A good camera; Sony A7iii and 18-135mm Sony lens. Canon Powershot SX720 HS (Amazon).
- A water filter
For water filtration, the Steripen Adventurer is highly effective. While pricier initially, it’s quicker and easier than squeeze filters. It uses UV light to purify water. Batteries last for about 50 liters. Carry spare batteries as they are a specific type. Ensure your water bottle has at least a 38mm opening (Nalgene bottles work well). The Katadyn Steripen Ultra is a rechargeable alternative suitable for narrow-mouth bottles. The Grayl Geopress is another excellent option. While much of Patagonia’s water is potable, a water filter is environmentally friendly and useful if traveling elsewhere in South America, reducing reliance on bottled water. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, a water filter is a valuable addition for hiking and camping.
Patagonia packing list for summer: water filter.
*Many shops now stock the Steripen Ultra UV Water Purifier, which I also recommend.
Assorted Summer Essentials for Patagonia
Reading Material and Guidebooks for Summer Patagonia Trips
A Kindle Paperwhite is a fantastic travel companion for avid readers, saving space and weight compared to books. Remember to charge it regularly. Combine it with your headlamp for nighttime reading in dorms. For summer gear for travel Patagonia, entertainment for downtime is important too.
A Kindle Paperwhite, useful reading material for summer gear for travel Patagonia
Read Bruce Chatwin’s “In Patagonia” to immerse yourself in the region’s atmosphere before you go. For guidebooks, “Moon Chile” covers Chilean Patagonia extensively, and Lonely Planet Argentina is useful for Argentine Patagonia. Lonely Planet South America is comprehensive if your travels extend beyond Patagonia.
Moon Chile guidebook, a recommended guide book as part of summer gear for travel Patagonia
Patagonia packing list for summer: reading material and guidebooks.
Toiletries for Summer Patagonia
Sunglasses and sunscreen are crucial, even in Patagonia’s windy conditions, as sunburn is easy to get. Solid shampoo and conditioner bars are space-saving, lightweight, and eco-friendly. Test them at home first to find suitable brands for your hair type.
Keep Reading: How to Be a More Responsible Traveler in 2023
A comprehensive medical kit should include ibuprofen, paracetamol, plasters, eye drops, bandages, arnica cream, blister plasters, insect bite cream, rehydration sachets, hydrocortisone cream, and allergy tablets.
Patagonia packing list for summer: toiletries and reading material.
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Solid shampoo and conditioner; Ethique (shampoo and conditioner), Etsy options.
- Lightweight, travel medical kit; REI|Amazon or DIY kit.
Equipment for Camping in Patagonia During Summer
Tent: Lightweight and Wind-Resistant for Summer Patagonia Camping
For serious trekking with camping, a lightweight, wind-resistant tent is essential summer gear for travel Patagonia. Gear rental is available in Torres del Paine, but bringing your own lightweight gear is preferable for extensive hiking.
For the Torres del Paine Circuit, I used the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 tent. Though expensive, it’s incredibly light (1.4 kg) and withstood Patagonia’s extreme weather. Read my review of the Big Agnes HV UL2 for details. The North Face Trail Lite 2 or Trail Lite 3 tents are more affordable alternatives.
Patagonia packing list for summer: tents.
Sleeping Bag: Three-Season Comfort for Summer Patagonia Nights
The Nemo Disco 15 sleeping bag is a great three-season down-filled option, comfortable down to 25°F (-4°C). Suitable for Patagonia’s spring, summer, and shoulder seasons. It’s lightweight (1.21g) and packs down small. Available in men’s and women’s versions. A reliable piece of summer gear for travel Patagonia for comfortable camping.
Patagonia packing list for summer: sleeping bag.
Sleeping Pad: Comfort for Summer Camping
Comfortable, durable, and compact sleeping pads are crucial for camping comfort. Basic foam pads are cheap, while inflatable pads offer better insulation and comfort. For summer gear for travel Patagonia camping, a good sleeping pad enhances rest.
Patagonia packing list for summer: sleeping pads.
Pots, Pans, and Cutlery: Lightweight Cooking for Summer Treks
Lightweight, versatile, and easy-to-clean cookware is essential. Avoid overpacking; two pots can suffice for a group. MSR cookware is a reputable brand. Sea to Summit collapsible bowls are excellent space-savers. A durable mug and a titanium spork are also recommended. For summer gear for travel Patagonia camping, efficient cooking gear is key.
Keep Reading: Why the Big Agnes is My Go-To Ultralight Backpacking Tent
Patagonia packing list for summer: pots, pans, and cutlery.
Cooking Stove: Portable for Summer Patagonia Camping
The MSR PocketRocket 2 stove is an affordable, small, and lightweight option. It requires gas canisters, which are available in Patagonia. For summer gear for travel Patagonia camping, a portable stove allows for hot meals on the go.
Patagonia packing list for summer: cooking stove.
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