Buenos Aires Packing

Pack lightly: lay out only what you absolutely need, then take half the clothes and twice the money. The Travelite FAQ (www.travelite.org) is a good resource for tips on traveling light. The online Universal Packing List (http://upl.codeq.info) will generate a customized list of suggested items based on your trip length, expected climate, planned activities, and other factors. Some frequent travelers keep a bag packed with all the essentials: passport, money belt, hat, socks, etc. Then, when they decide to leave, they know they haven’t forgotten anything.

Luggage: A sturdy internal-frame backpack is unbeatable for both the city and any daytrips you may take. A smaller daypack is indispensable for exploring the city.
Clothing: By latitude, Buenos Aires is roughly as far south from the equator as Florida is north. It’s warm during the summer, with average highs around 80ºF/27ºC, and rarely gets too cold during the winter, with average low temperatures never dropping below 45ºF/7ºC. Pack accordingly. No matter when you’re traveling, it’s a good idea to bring a warm jacket or wool sweater, a Gore-Tex® rain jacket, sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and thick socks (along with extra pairs aplenty). Flip-flops or waterproof sandals are must-haves for grubby hostel showers. You will want an outfit for going out and a nicer pair of shoes; jeans and flip-flops will get you kicked out of many clubs. Gearing up for an excursion to Iguazú Falls? Before packing, note that temperatures there are usually much higher than in Buenos Aires, given the tropical climate. Winter trips to interior and southern Argentina will bring cooler temperatures compared to Buenos Aires.
Sleepsack: Some hostels require that you either provide your own linen or rent sheets from them. Save cash by making your own sleepsack: fold a full-size sheet in half the long way, then sew it closed along the long side and one of the short sides.
Converters and Adapters: In Argentina, electricity is 220 volts AC, enough to fry any 120V North American appliance. 220/240V electrical appliances won’t work with a 120V current, either. Americans and Canadians should buy an adapter (which changes the shape of the plug; US$5) and a converter (which changes the voltage; US$10-30). Don’t make the mistake of using only an adapter (unless appliance instructions explicitly state otherwise). Australians and New Zealanders (who use 230V at home) won’t need a converter but will need a set of adapters to use anything electrical. In general, to check appliance compatibility, see if there’s any text on the appliance’s adapter—this will usually specify what range of voltage levels is suitable. Most modern North American appliances, such as cell phones, digital cameras, and laptops, can still use Argentine 220V/50Hz electricity without conversion and will only require a plug adapter. For more on all things adaptable, check out http://kropla.com/electric.htm.
Toiletries: Condoms, deodorant, razors, tampons, and toothbrushes are often available, but it may be difficult to find your preferred brand; bring extras just in case. Contact lenses are likely to be expensive and difficult to find, so bring enough extra pairs and solution for your entire trip. Also bring your glasses and a copy of your prescription in case you need emergency replacements.
First-Aid Kit: For a basic first-aid kit, pack bandages, a pain reliever, antibiotic cream, a thermometer, a multifunction pocketknife, tweezers, moleskin, decongestant, motion-sickness remedy, diarrhea or upset-stomach medication, an antihistamine, sunscreen, insect repellent, burn ointment, and a syringe for emergencies.
Other Useful Items: For safety purposes, you should bring a money belt and a small padlock. Basic outdoors equipment (plastic water bottle, pocketknife, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat) may also be handy. Other things you’re liable to forget include: an umbrella, sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, soap, food, shampoo, and other spillables), an alarm clock, and earplugs. A cell phone can be a lifesaver (literally) on the road; see for information on acquiring one that will work in Argentina.
Important Documents: Don’t forget your passport, traveler’s checks, ATM and/or credit cards, adequate ID, and photocopies of all of the aforementioned in case these documents are lost or stolen . Also check that you have any of the following that might apply to you: a hosteling membership card; driver’s license ; travel insurance forms ; ISIC , and/or railpass or bus pass .