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A view of a city from the top of a hill

Chile · tool

Santiago packing list

Everything you actually need for Santiago, and nothing you don't — with notes on what's specific to this destination.

Photo by Dmitry Kropachev on Unsplash

Santiago, Chile packing list

17 items across 5 categories — 12 marked essential.

Essentials

  • Passport/IDEssential
  • Chilean Pesos (CLP)Essential
    While cards are widely accepted, smaller vendors and some taxis may prefer cash. ATMs are readily available.
  • Credit/Debit CardsEssential
    Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid holds.
  • Printed Itinerary
    Useful for offline reference and visa requirements if applicable.

Clothing

  • Layers (T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, fleece/sweater)Essential
    Santiago experiences significant temperature swings between day and night, and weather can change rapidly.
  • Comfortable walking shoesEssential
    You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, from city streets to potentially hilly areas.
  • Smart casual outfit
    For dining at nicer restaurants or attending cultural events.
  • Lightweight jacketEssential
    Evenings can be cool, especially outside of summer.

Electronics

  • Phone & ChargerEssential
  • Portable power bank
    Useful for long days exploring without access to an outlet.
  • Travel adapterEssential
    Chile uses Type L plugs (three round pins) and operates on 220V.

Health & Safety

  • Personal medicationsEssential
    Bring prescriptions if needed; pharmacies are common but specific brands might not be available.
  • SunscreenEssential
    Santiago is at a high altitude and the sun can be intense, even on cooler days.
  • Hand sanitizerEssential
  • Basic first-aid kit
    Includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.

Cultural

  • Small Spanish phrasebook or translation app
    While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing basic Spanish phrases is helpful and appreciated.
  • Reusable water bottleEssential
    Tap water is generally safe to drink in Santiago, so refilling is easy and eco-friendly.

Destination-specific tips

  • •Santiago is at a significant altitude (around 520m/1700ft), so take it easy on your first day to acclimatize.
  • •The 'almuerzo' (lunch) is the main meal of the day, often served between 1 PM and 3 PM. Many restaurants offer 'menú del día' (set lunch menus) which are great value.
  • •Public transportation (Metro) is efficient and covers most of the city. Consider purchasing a rechargeable 'Bip!' card.
  • •Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 10%) and is often included in the bill as 'propina'. Check your receipt.
  • •Be aware of potential pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas and on public transport, similar to other large cities.

Plan the rest of your Santiago trip

Itinerary, hotels, activities — all in one place.

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