What to Pack & Bring: La Paz

Layering Essentials

Layering is the most important packing strategy for La Paz, allowing adaptation to changing temperatures throughout the day.

Core Layers

Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal underwear (merino wool or synthetic) for warmth and breathability.
Mid-Layers: Fleece jackets, sweaters, or lightweight down vests for insulation.
Outer Layer: A Waterproof and windproof jacket for rain and wind.

Seasonal & Cultural Attire

Dress for varying temperatures and cultural respect. La Paz is generally casual; avoid overly revealing clothing.

Specific Needs

Headwear: A Warm hat or beanie for cold; a Wide-brimmed sun hat for UV Protection.
Gloves: Lightweight for cooler mornings and evenings.
Pants: Durable, comfortable Hiking pants or jeans (can be slow to dry if wet).

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Essential for hilly, often uneven, and cobblestone streets. Select shoes with good grip and cushioning.

Comfort & Grip: Sneakers/Walking Boots

Hiking Boots

Waterproof boots with good ankle support are recommended if planning treks or activities like the Death Road.

Trekking Support: Waterproof Boots

Sandals/Flip-flops

Useful for relaxing indoors or in hostels, but not suitable for extensive outdoor walking due to terrain and weather.

Indoor Comfort: Sandals/Flip-flops

Essential Documents

Documents

Carry both original and copies of important papers.

Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry original passport, valid six months beyond departure, plus visa if needed.
Travel Insurance Policy Information: Keep digital and printed copies, including emergency contacts.
International Driving Permit (if applicable): With your national driver's license for driving in Bolivia.
Vaccination Records: Yellow Fever certificate and other relevant health documents.

Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Keep copies of flights, hotels, and tour confirmations.
Emergency Contact Information: List of family, friends, and embassy/consulate contacts.
Student/Senior/Press IDs: For discounts if you qualify.
Prescription Medications: Carry in original packaging with a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Plan for your electronic needs, including power, communication, and data backup.

Power Details

Voltage: 220-230V, 50 Hz.
Plug Types: Type A, C, F. A universal Travel adapter is recommended.
Phone Compatibility: Ensure phone is unlocked for international SIM cards (Entel, Tigo, Viva).

Devices & Data

Keep your devices charged and your data backed up securely. Always good practice for any journey.

Tech Essentials

Camera Equipment: DSLR/Mirrorless, extra batteries, Wide-angle lens, Tripod.
Portable Chargers: Power banks for charging on the go.
Backup Solutions: Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or a Portable hard drive for photos/videos.

Recommended Apps

Navigation

Google Maps (download offline maps for La Paz), Maps.me (detailed offline maps).

Translation

Google Translate (download Spanish offline pack for use without internet).

Local Services

Uber and Didi are available for ride-sharing. WhatsApp is widely used for communication with locals and operators.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit prepares you for common travel ailments and high-altitude challenges.

First Aid Basics

Standard Items: Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen, paracetamol), blister treatment, small scissors, tweezers.
Altitude Medication: Acetazolamide (Diamox) if prescribed. Over-the-counter Sorojchi Pills assist with mild symptoms.
Stomach Remedies: Anti-diarrhea medication (Loperamide), rehydration salts (ORS).

Protection & Hygiene

Protect against sun, insects, and consider specific personal hygiene needs.

Essential Protection

Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+) and Lip balm with SPF for intense UV radiation.
Eye Drops: For dry eyes, which can result from dry high-altitude air.
Insect Repellent: With DEET or picaridin for lower altitude areas (Yungas or Amazon basin).

Additional Health Needs

Prescription Needs

Prescription Medications: Carry in original packaging with a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances.
Over-the-Counter Medications: Cold/flu remedies, allergy medication, motion sickness pills (for winding mountain roads).
Respiratory Issues: Consider carrying a scarf or mask for dry, cold, or dusty air.

Water & Hygiene

Water Purification: A Portable water filter or purification tablets for refilling bottles.
Personal Hygiene: Specific brands of toiletries or feminine hygiene products if you have preferences.
Food Hygiene: Eat only well-cooked food, avoid tap water and ice unless purified.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Trekking

Gear for exploring trails and mountains.

Small daypack for excursions.
Trekking poles for stability.
Sturdy hiking boots.
Moisture-wicking shirts and Hiking socks.

Mountain Biking

For thrilling descents like the Death Road.

Helmets (typically provided by operators).
Gloves (typically provided by operators).
Protective gear (typically provided by operators).
Ensure the equipment provided is of high quality and well-maintained.

Rent vs. Bring

Decide what to rent or bring for your trip.

Rent: Bikes, bulky trek gear (sleeping bags, tents).
Bring: Personal water bottles, small daypacks.
Specialty items unique to La Paz: Coca leaves (legal for altitude).
Alpaca wool clothing (local purchase or bring preference).

Equipment Considerations

Rent Locally

Safer to rent high-quality bikes and safety gear from reputable local tour operators for activities like Death Road biking.
Bulky gear like sleeping bags or tents can be rented locally, but always inspect their quality before accepting.
This option reduces luggage weight and hassle during travel.
Renting locally supports the Bolivian economy and local businesses directly.

Bring From Home

Personal items like water bottles, small daypacks, and specific medical supplies are best brought from home.
Specialized gear, like specific hiking brands or certain dietary supplements, might be difficult or more expensive to find locally.
This approach avoids potential rental quality issues and allows for immediate use upon arrival.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items improve comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Travel Comfort

A Travel neck pillow for long bus journeys.
An Eye mask for better rest.
Earplugs for noisy accommodations.
A Small backpack for daily excursions.

Reusable & Practical

Eco-friendly choices and useful additions for your journey.

Eco-Travel

A Reusable filtered water bottle or a regular bottle with a filter/purifier.
A Reusable shopping bag for markets.
Reusable utensils for street food or picnics.
A Headlamp or flashlight for power outages or dimly lit streets.

Security Essentials

Padlocks

For securing hostel lockers or luggage.

Money Belt

A discreet Money belt for passport, cash, cards.

RFID Wallet

An RFID blocking wallet to protect credit cards.

Separate Day Bag

A small, secure bag for daily use, kept in front in crowded areas.

La Paz Specifics

Local Remedies

Coca Leaves: Available locally for chewing or making tea to assist with altitude adaptation.
Alpaca Wool: Warm, lightweight, and culturally significant.
Local Snacks: Try salteñas or empanadas for quick energy.

Practical Items

Small Backpack/Daypack: For daily excursions.
Headlamp/Flashlight: Useful for power outages or navigating dimly lit streets.
Travel Towel: Quick-drying and lightweight for convenience.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack a small, separate bag with your first day's clothes, toiletries, and medications.

This is useful if your main luggage is delayed.

What to Pack & Bring