A Panama Packing List
Having the right clothes and gear with you on any trip is crucial ~ it's especially important in Panama, which is why I created this Panama packing list.
A few important notes:
- This list is specific to the Azuero Peninsula because this is where we spend the most time, so you may need to add or subtract items based on where you'll be visiting. Pretty much everywhere outside of the city is casual!
- You can find some, but not all, of these items here...I just prefer to buy them so I don't spend any of my vacation time figuring out where to buy them if I end up needing them.
- I'm a woman, so this list is geared that way...if you're a guy, you can delete quite a few items!
You won't need...
Before I begin listing what you should bring to the Azuero Peninsula, I'll let you know that you can leave long-sleeved shirts, fancy clothes and wetsuits at home.
It's CASUAL here and, even when it rains, the temps AND ocean are WARM!
Here's what you will need...
Here are the things I've appreciated having in my suitcase on one or more of my trips here:
Scroll down to download a printable PDF of this Panama Packing List!
General Items:
🔲 Sunglasses
🔲 Reading glasses or contacts (plus supplies)
🔲 Hydration daypack (if you'll be going on any long outings)
🔲 Headlamp
🔲 Journal & pen
🔲 Ziploc baggies (to store items that can't get wet like your phone, camera, etc.)
🔲 Book(s)
Travel docs, money, etc.
🔲 Driver's license & photocopy of license (for all drivers)
🔲 Passport & photocopy of passport
🔲 ALL travel docs (itinerary, plane ticket, car rental and hotel info, etc.) ~ virtual & printed
🔲 Maps & directions to your hotels and activities — virtual & printed
🔲 Cash (U.S. dollars) ~ many places in the country do not take credit cards!
🔲 Credit card(s) / Debit cards
🔲 Health insurance card
🔲 Travel insurance documents
Electronics
🔲 Electric converters & plug adaptors (IF you're not from the U.S.)
🔲 Mobile phone and chargers (wall AND car)
🔲 Camera (AND charger, extra memory card and several batteries)
🔲 Headphones (for your phone)
🔲 Travel apps (for language, directions, money conversion, etc.)
🔲 Kindle (and charger)
Toiletries
🔲 Hairbrush/comb
🔲 Sunscreen for body and face (please make sure it's SAFE for our reefs and your body!)
🔲 Toothbrush & toothpaste
🔲 Body lotion (I recommend Skin So Soft by Avon with bug repellent)
🔲 Safe & effective deodorant
🔲 Hair ties and/or headbands
🔲 Face cleanser & face wipes
🔲 Lip balm (with SPF)
🔲 Bug repellent (the strong stuff during the rainy season)
🔲 Feminine hygiene products
🔲 Prescription meds (keep in original containers & put in carry on)
🔲 Hand sanitizer
🔲 Bandaids & blister protection
🔲 First aid ointment
🔲 Anti-itch cream
🔲 Pain reliever
🔲 Sunburn relief
🔲 Nail clippers
🔲 Shaving stuff
🔲 Motion sickness medication (if you plan on whale watching, fishing, etc.)
🔲 Antacid AND anti-diarrhea medication
Clothing
🔲 Underwear
🔲 Shorts (for most days)
🔲 Lightweight long pants (1-2 pairs is generally enough)
🔲 Short sleeve t-shirts/tank tops (ONE for each day unless you plan to do laundry)
🔲 Casual dress
🔲 Bathing suits (at least two)
🔲 Comfortable waterproof shoes (good for daily use AND hiking)
🔲 Flip flops
🔲 Water shoes (for wearing in the ocean, rivers, etc.)
🔲 Hats (I recommend bringing two)
🔲 2 pairs of socks
🔲 Lightweight rain jacket
Food
🔲 Healthy snacks
Here are a couple of my favorites—both for their deliciousness and healthiness:
- Organic beef sticks (gluten free & high in protein)
- Oloves (gluten free)
🔲 Gluten-free items (if needed)
I want your trip to be as perfect as possible, so I've included links to some tried, true, and loved items!
DOWNLOAD A PRINTABLE VERSION OF THIS PACKING LIST!
Panama Packing List.pdf
NOTE: Many of the links on the list are Amazon affiliate links to help me continue to help you for FREE!
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