
More than its physical and mental health benefits like stress relief, backpacking can be a great way to establish freedom and confidence in your travels. Among the ideal backpacking destinations is Argentina, as one of the previous posts highlights.
Being in Buenos Aires alone can open you up to unique experiences that extend beyond the usual tourist spots and toward local neighbourhoods and communities. From its walkable streets to architectural gems like the historic theatre El Ateneo Grand Splendid, you can spend your entire trip away from the crowds, just immersing yourself in nature and culture.
These experiences are all the more worthwhile as you explore beyond the capital and backpack through natural wonders like the jaw-dropping Iguazú Falls and the majestic Patagonian Peaks. But no matter where your journey takes you, here are some essentials to add to your packing list.
First-aid kit
Regardless of how many times you’ve travelled, it doesn’t hurt to prepare for possible injuries or mishaps along the way. Bringing a well-packed first-aid kit can get you out of harm’s way, whether you’re trekking around the small town of El Chaltén or going for a swim along the Argentine coast.
Besides packing the usual supplies like multiple-sized bandages, gauze, rubbing alcohol, sunscreen, and bug repellent, make sure to include a card that contains basic information like your name, emergency contact numbers of a family member and medical provider, and travel insurance company details.
Sunglasses
While Argentina isn’t exactly a tropical destination, its ultraviolet index can reach particularly high levels throughout the year, with the summer months (December through February) putting you at risk of sunburn. Since UV exposure can also damage your vision and overall eye health, wear sunglasses not just at beaches like Las Grutas in Rio Negro, but at all times.
When choosing sunglasses, opt for a pair that maximises coverage through large or oversized frames. Established brands like Ray-Ban are also outdoor-oriented and offer polarised lens options for signature frame styles like the Aviator and Wayfarer, and you can easily order them online if you need a last-minute or emergency pair before your trip. Online stores will also offer sales of up to 60% off for certain brands.
Portable charger
One thing you wouldn’t want to happen while backpacking is running out of power for essential devices like your smartphone, camera, and laptop. So, remember to pack a portable charger, such as the ones from Anker’s Nano series, which are compatible with multiple devices and deliver up to 240 watts of power.
If you’re an environmentally conscious traveller looking to visit eco-tourism spots like the Ibera Wetlands and Quebrada del Condorito National Park, these charging accessories ensure your travel kit is sustainable. Its built-in USB-C cables and compatibility across devices and operating systems equate to less e-waste.
Banknotes
What’s great about backpacking is you also get to see as much of the local communities and contribute to their economy and livelihoods. So, while there’s a new preferential exchange rate for tourists in Argentina using card payments, remember to still bring banknotes for more convenient shopping in areas like the historic San Telmo’s antique markets along cobblestone streets.
Although we’ve previously stated the relative safety and walkability of Argentina compared to Brazil, you should still be wary of pickpockets who often move in groups and target public transport. It’s best to bring just a sufficient amount of cash based on the activities you’ve planned for the day.
As you backpack around Argentina, always be on the lookout for places where you can try out authentic cuisine, like asado (barbecue) and chocotorta (chocolate cake). The more you get to the heart of the local culture through off-the-beaten-path adventures, the more memorable your backpacking experience will be.