10 Things that You Must Pack for a Trip to the Amazon Rain Forest

A trip to the Amazon is a dream come true for many people. It also poses some interesting questions about what to pack. Sure, you'll encounter hot and humid conditions. You'll also find a host of critters and have rains that can make staying comfortable a challenge. Before you head out, consider these 10 items that will help make your trip to the Amazon more pleasant and enjoyable. 

1. Clothes That Can Layer

Yep, it's going to be hot, so you'll want to have some shorts and tees to keep cool. You may also want to pack a pair of long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect yourself when you go about exploring. Lightweight materials that dry quickly will help clothes stay fresh despite what can be oppressive humidity. 

2. A Dry Bag 

You'll want to have a backpack to make carrying the essentials easier, but you should definitely pack a dry bag to keep important items, well, dry. This will come in particularly handy during the downpours you are sure to experience at some point during the trip. The dry bag you choose doesn't have to accommodate all of your belongings, but you want to make sure to find one that is big enough to keep electronics and important papers dry. 

3. Sunscreen

Dense jungle doesn't conjure images of bright sunlight, but you will likely spend a good deal of time outdoors on your trip. Protection from the sun is an absolute must. Sure, the trees will filter the sun to an extent, but you won't always be under that canopy. If you plan to take advantage of any swimming holes that you happen upon, make sure it is waterproof. A sunburn will derail your plans for a couple of days, and you don't want to miss anything on this once in a lifetime trip. 

4. A Lightweight Hat

This has multiple purposes. A hat will help shade your face and eyes from the sun. It also serves as a convenient way to cover hair that is suffering in high humidity levels. Look for a lightweight hat with a wide brim that can compress down to fit inside your pack when you don't want to wear it. 

5. Insect Repellant

you are going toa tropical rain forest. There will be bugs. Insect repellant is an absolute must. Whether you choose to purchase a chemical or barrier repellant, or if you prefer to make your own using Young Living Essential oils, make sure you have some defense against the flying and crawling insects you are bound to encounter. 

6. Appropriate Shoes

The wrong shoes can leave you miserable and in pain for a trip. Choose the right shoes for the activities you plan. Flip flops or sandals are great for lounging by the pool. If you are going to be out exploring, pack a suitable pair of supportive hiking shoes. Your feet will thank you. 

7. A Swimsuit

Whether you plan to hang out by the hotel pool or you want to swim at the base of a waterfall, you'll want to pack a bathing suit. Jumping in fully clothed will leave you uncomfortable for hours as your clothes struggle to dry out in the humidity. 

8. A Refillable Water Bottle

The climate in the Amazon demands that you drink plenty of fluids. Pack a refillable water bottle so you can reduce the amount of plastic you generate. You can easily fill it at hotels and other public places throughout your trip. Resist the urge to drink from rivers and streams. The water can contain dangerous microbes and contaminants. 

9. A Camera

Whether you choose to snap pictures on your cell phone or you pack a designated camera, make sure you have a way to document your trip in photos. You'll enjoy looking back on them and reminiscing for years to come. 

10. Binoculars

Not everything you will want to see will be clearly visible. It is, after all, a jungle. SPot birds and small mammals with a compact pair of binoculars that you can toss into your pack. 

There are tons of amazing activities you can enjoy on your trip to the Amazon Rain Forest. Having the right gear along will make it easier and more fun.