Patagonia, promises and delivers unforgettable adventures to its visitors and each destination offers unique experiences that require meticulous preparation.
This article aims to be your packing companion, ensuring that you arrive in Patagonia prepared for everything this land of contrasts has to offer. Packing for Patagonia doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right preparation, you will be ready to face the changing weather and enjoy all that this spectacular region has to offer.
Before diving into the details of what to bring, it’s essential to understand Patagonia’s climate. Characterized by its unpredictability, with sudden changes and strong winds, the Patagonian climate dictates a versatile and layered approach to packing.
1. Packing for Ushuaia
Known as the end of the world, Ushuaia is famous for its cold weather most of the year. Here, layers are key: start with cotton t-shirts and T-shirts, add sweaters or sweatshirts, and don’t forget a warm and waterproof jacket. Footwear should be rubber-soled, trekking boot type, to adapt to the varied terrain. Although the interiors are usually heated, it is advisable to wear light clothing for occasions when you are indoors.
2. The Essentials for El Calafate
El Calafate, gateway to the majestic glaciers, requires special attention to clothing and footwear. A good warm jacket and trekking boots are essential, as is dressing in layers to adapt to the heated interiors. Don’t underestimate the cold near glaciers and prepare for rapid climate changes.
3. Preparations for Bariloche
Bariloche, the national capital of winter sports, offers everything from world-class ski slopes to crystal-clear lakes in summer. Regardless of the season, a waterproof jacket, gloves, and hat are essential. In summer, add lighter clothing and sunscreen to your suitcase, while in winter, thermal layers and non-slip boots are essential.
4. Luggage for Puerto Madryn
In Puerto Madryn, the focus is on wildlife viewing and marine activities. Include binoculars, comfortable clothing for sunny days, and a warm layer for boat trips in your luggage. Comfortable footwear is vital for long walks and coastal exploration.
General Tips
Regardless of the destination in Patagonia, some items are universal and unavoidable:
- Clothing in layers: Allows you to adjust to climate variability.
- Sun protection: Include sunscreen and sunglasses, even in winter.
- Essential accessories: Hats, gloves and scarves are crucial in the south.
- Appropriate footwear: Trekking boots for outdoor adventures and comfortable shoes for exploring the cities.
What is the currency? Can I rely on atms to withdraw money?
- The official currency is the Argentine Peso (ARS).
- Many shops and restaurants will accept USD/EURO as well.
- ATMs for withdrawals are readily available in big cities but not in smaller towns, where you may just have a couple of them to rely on. So make sure you always have some cash in advance with you as sometimes credit cards may not be an option either.
About voltage in Argentina
- 220V – 50Hz. (single phase)
- 380V – 50Hz. (three phase)
- Plug types: C (Europlug) and I
Will my cellphone work in Argentina?
Frequencies and bands in use across Argentina are:
- GSM 850, GSM 1900 (PCS)
- UMTS B2, B5 (850 / 900 PCS)
- LTE B4 (1700/2100 AWS 1)
Which is the official language?
It is Spanish, or as most locals call it, “Castellano”. Nevertheless at almost all tourist establishments, restaurants, excursions and the like you will find English speaking staff too.
Which timezone is Argentina?
Despite being a very large country, the whole of Argentina including Patagonia is on one timezone only, which is GMT-3. At present (2025) there is no daylight saving time in use.
How to arrive in Patagonia?
To get to Patagonia (argentina’s side) you need to first head to Argentina’s capital and main urban center, the city of Buenos Aires. This city is easily reached with daily flights connecting it nonstop to and from many cities in Europe and the Americas. Once in Buenos Aires there are many daily direct, non-stop flights to all major destinations of Argentina.
Which cities in Patagonia can I fly into?
For tourism from Buenos Aires to Patagonia and within, your best bet is to fly as distances between cities in Argentina are huge. You need to look for flights arriving in either Trelew (REL), Puerto Madryn (PMY), Ushuaia (USH), El Calafate (FTE) or Bariloche (BRC). Other important cities in Patagonia (in terms of business and commercial activities) are Comodoro Rivadavia, Río Gallegos and Neuquén.
