Trip readiness checklist for Argentina

What to pack

Argentina is huge and stylish — Buenos Aires nightlife, Patagonian wind, Andean sun. Pack layers for big regional swings, comfortable shoes for late nights, and something smarter for the city.

• Layers for big regional swings

  Patagonia is cold and windy; the north is subtropical; Buenos Aires is temperate. Pack for your route.

• A windproof shell (for Patagonia)

  If you're heading south, wind is the defining weather — a proper windproof layer is essential.

• Comfortable shoes for late nights

  Dinner starts at 10pm and the city stays up; you'll walk a lot.

• Crisp US dollars in cash

  Clean US bills get strong informal exchange rates and are widely useful (see Money).

When to go

Seasons are reversed: summer (Dec–Feb) is peak for Buenos Aires and Patagonia (warmest, busiest); winter (Jun–Aug) suits skiing and the north. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant in the cities.

Money & getting around

Argentina's peso (ARS) is volatile and exchange is unusual — bringing crisp US dollar bills often gets a much better informal ('blue') rate than cards or ATMs. Check the current situation before you go; cards may bill at less favourable rates. Tipping ~10% is customary.

Local quirks worth knowing

Argentina dines at midnight, kisses hello, and shares its tea through one communal straw. Jump in — hesitation is the only faux pas.

• Dinner starts at ten

  Restaurants at 8pm are empty; the night peaks at 11. Have a merienda (afternoon coffee and pastry) like a local and you'll make it.

• Mate has rules

  The gourd circulates; drink it all, hand it back to the server (cebador), don't touch the straw's position, and only say 'gracias' when you're done for good — it means 'no more for me.'

• Everyone kisses hello

  One cheek kiss, including between men among friends. A handshake works for first meetings, but don't flinch at the upgrade.

• Football allegiance is personal

  Asking 'Boca or River?' starts a conversation; declaring a side starts a commitment. Tread lightly, enjoy thoroughly.

A week in Argentina, the list starts here

Quantities scale with your dates, the weather groups arrive once we have your travel days, and your own plans add their gear on Trip Pass.

• Passport & travel documents1
• Phone charger & adapter1
• Wallet, cards & some local cash1
• Toiletries bag1
• Any daily medicationsenough for the trip
• Underwear7
• Socks7
• T-shirts / tops5

• Everything in my carry-on, and why each thing earns its spot
• The packing trick that got me through 3 countries with one carry-on