16 Must-Have Items to Survive in The Amazon Rainforest

1. A Portable Charger

With long days out on the boat, the last thing you want is your phone running out of battery, and not being able to take a photo of the amazing wildlife around you.

If staying in a lodge, I would not rely on having electricity 24/7. Many places only switch the electricity on for set periods a day. Therefore, it is worth taking a portable charger you know can do multiple chargers.

2. Long Socks

I am normally a trainer sock person who doesn’t like my socks being seen. However, the bugs do not mess around so make sure you take a couple of pairs of longer socks.
After seeing by guide with his socks tucked in on our first walk I knew I had to do the same. So make sure you don’t forget a pair of long socks, unless you’re after a ring of bites on each ankle.

3. Bug spray

I know there are lots of natural insect repellents out there, but knowing there was a risk of Zika virus I made sure I bought repellent with the highest level of DEET I could find. Coming home with only three bites after my trip, I think this was the best decision I made!

I brought some with me, so I cannot comment on what was available while I was out in Peru.

4. Waterproof Jacket

It is called the rainforest after all so it’s worth taking a waterproof jacket just in case. I was fortunate for it not to rain while I was there. However, it was still useful to wear both while riding the boat early in the morning (it gets cold with the wind) and also to use to cover up my arms from the bugs.

Top tip: buy a packable one to save room in your bag

5. Long Trousers and Tops

Long clothing is a must when venturing deep into The Amazon. You want to make sure as much skin as possible is covered to reduce the chances of getting bitten.
I took a pair of linen trousers and cargo trousers. Being light weight and quick drying, I was really pleased with my choice.

That long sleeved thin shirt cover up that you’d wear to the beach… makes for the perfect rainforest cover up!

Top tip: try and get the ones that are either elasticated or draw in at the ankles.

6. Torch

If you’re going out on night walks then make sure you take a torch to help spot the animals. When I say torch, I don’t mean a phone torch, the range on them isn’t great, so it would suggested bringing a proper one. Head torches can be a good to make sure you spot any roots poking out on the floor too.

7. Comfy Shoes

During my trip we went on several hour long hikes to visit the surrounding areas. The ground is very uneven with lots of tree roots along the way, so it was key to have a comfy pair of shoes.

During the wet season most tours will provide you with wellies to wear. However, it was still rather muddy when I went in the dry season so don’t take shows that you would be upset getting dirty.

What about walking boots? I would say they are more of a nice to have than an essential. I wouldn’t bring them all the way from home just for the rainforest (I was happy with just trainers), however, if you have packed them as you will be using them for trekking later in your trip, I would take them with you.

8. Sweater or Jumper

A jumper in the Amazon?

Due to the humidity it can get rather cold in the mornings and late at night, so make sure you pack a jumper with you. Especially on those early morning boat rides!

I’m a big fan of taking a fleece and it isn’t too bulky and is great for layering.

9. Shorts

On the other end of the spectrum, it gets really hot during the day in The Amazon. While venturing out you’ll want to cover up, but you’ll be thankful to have a pair of shorts to throw on once you return back to the lodge.

10. Sun Cream, Sun Glasses and a Hat

Even in the winter, it is important you wear sun cream every day!

I found we were very exposed while watching the clay lick and out paddling on lakes so I was pleased to have my shades and sun cream. However, upon reflection I wish I also took a hat with me.

11. Water bottle

One of my favourite eco-friendly travel tips is to take a refillable bottle.

Most lodges and hotels have large water containers with filtered water available. So, make sure you have a water bottle with you so you can fill it up as and when you need.

12. Fast drying t-shirts

Cotton t-shirts are an absolute no no when in the Amazon. The kind of tops you’d wear to exercise in are perfect for when you get hot and sweaty. Linen tops are also a good option.

14. Flip flops

If staying in a lodge it’s nice to have a pair of shoes to slip on while wondering around your room or over to get breakfast

15. Binoculars

Unlike a safari where you are out spotting large animals, animals in The Amazon can be small or high up in the trees, making them difficult to see. Your guide will likely take a pair of binoculars with them, but it can be nice to have your own pair so you are not sharing with six others.

16. Camera

While a phone camera is ok, your photos will not come out as well as if you have a good camera with you. I have to zoom in a lot when taking photos and really wish I took a better camera with me. So, if photo quality is important to you, make sure you you take a camera with a high power lense with you.