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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

The Southeast, Brazil

Dry Season April-September

This period features mild days and cool nights.

Clothing Recommendations

Wet Season October-March

This season is hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.

Clothing Recommendations

  • Day: Very light, breathable, and quick-drying clothing (shorts, skirts, light dresses).
  • Rain Gear: A Lightweight rain jacket or a Compact travel umbrella for afternoon downpours.
  • Evening: Evenings remain warm, but a light cover-up might be useful indoors where air conditioning is strong.

Footwear Recommendations

General Walking

Comfortable Walking shoes or sneakers are a must. Explore neighborhoods and attractions on foot, so cushioned soles and good support are helpful.

Ideal for everyday exploration.

Rainy Season

If traveling during the wet season, water-resistant shoes or Sandals that dry quickly are beneficial. Avoid shoes that hold water.

Prevents discomfort in wet conditions.

Evening & Formal

Pack dressier shoes if planning to visit upscale venues for dinner or nightlife. Avoid high heels on cobblestone streets in older areas.

For evenings out and special occasions.

Essential Documents

Important Records & IDs

Keeping your important documents organized and secure is a top priority. Carry physical and digital copies of everything.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry original passport and printed eVisa confirmation (if applicable). Keep in a secure place like a Money belt or Secure travel wallet.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Bring physical and digital copies of your policy number, emergency contact details for the insurance provider, and a summary of your coverage.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): Required alongside your home country's driver's license if planning to rent a car. Obtain before your trip.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Carry International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) if you have a Yellow Fever vaccine.
  • Medical history and prescription medication details: A doctor's note detailing any medical conditions or prescribed drugs is useful. Keep medications in original containers.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flight tickets, accommodation bookings, tour confirmations, and car rental agreements. Store digital copies on phone, email, and cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox).
  • Emergency contact information: List of family/friends at home, local embassy/consulate in Brazil, and hotel contact. Keep separate from wallet/phone.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable): International Student Identity Card (ISIC) or relevant senior ID may offer concessions at some museums or attractions. Journalists should carry press IDs.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Plan your electronics carefully. Brazil uses both 127V and 220V, with Belo Horizonte mainly using 127V. Brazil uses Type N plugs (three prongs, unique to Brazil), though many outlets also accommodate Type C (two-prong European) and Type A/B (two/three-prong North American) plugs. An Universal travel adapter with Type N compatibility is highly recommended, rated for 127V use.

Mobile Essentials

  • Mobile phone compatibility: Most modern smartphones work. Confirm your phone is unlocked before departure.
  • SIM Card options: Purchase a local SIM card ("chip") upon arrival for cheaper data and local calls (Claro, Vivo, TIM). Passport is required for registration.
  • Portable chargers and power banks: Useful for keeping devices charged while exploring.

Camera & Apps

Capture your memories and navigate with ease using appropriate gear and applications.

Digital Tools

Data Backup & Online Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for backing up photos and important documents. This provides off-site storage.

Physical Storage

Carry an External hard drive or USB flash drive for local backups of critical files.

Digital Nomad eSIM

Consider Airalo for eSIMs, providing mobile data connectivity without physical SIM cards.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit can address minor issues quickly and contribute to your well-being.

Essential Contents

Climate-Specific Protection

Protect yourself from sun and insects, especially during the wet season.

Sun & Insect Defense

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Sickness Low Risk

  • Belo Horizonte's elevation (850m) is not typically high enough to cause altitude sickness.
  • If day trips into higher mountainous regions are planned, this could become useful.
  • Stay hydrated generally for overall comfort.

Motion Sickness

  • If prone to motion sickness, pack appropriate remedies for bus or car travel.
  • Long-distance bus journeys can be winding, especially through hilly terrain.
  • Over-the-counter options are available locally if needed.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Nature Trails

For exploring Parque das Mangabeiras or nearby natural areas.

Cycling

For cycling around Pampulha Lake or city bike paths.

Swimming

If your accommodation has a pool or you plan to visit water parks.

  • Swimsuit.
  • Towel.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Water shoes (if visiting public pools or rocky areas).

Equipment Decisions

When to Rent Locally

  • Bicycles: For activities like cycling around Pampulha Lake, local rental is convenient and cost-effective.
  • Specialized gear: For activities that require bulky or specific equipment not typically used in everyday travel.
  • Short-term use: If the equipment is only needed for a short duration of your trip.
  • Cost-effectiveness: When rental costs are significantly lower than purchasing and transporting the item.

When to Bring From Home

  • Personal items: Items with specific fit or comfort needs (e.g., hiking boots, specialized medical equipment).
  • Expensive/sensitive equipment: For items you prefer to use your own, like camera gear, and where security during transit is manageable.
  • Long-term use: If the equipment is needed for an extended period of your trip.
  • Availability: When specific items may be difficult or impossible to find locally.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These small items greatly improve your travel comfort and security.

Travel Essentials

Hydration & Preparedness

Daily Necessities

  • Reusable water bottle: To reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated.
  • Reusable shopping bag: Helpful as plastic bags are often charged in stores.
  • Small bills and coins: For bus fares and street vendors.
  • Sun protection: In addition to sunscreen, consider a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste and keeps you hydrated.

Foldable Shopping Bag

Useful for market visits and purchases.

Portable Utensil Set

For street food or picnics, minimizing disposable plastic.

Portable Power Bank

Keeps devices charged without constant reliance on outlets.

Destination-Specific Items

Unique to Belo Horizonte

  • A good city map (digital or physical) given the planned layout and distinct neighborhoods.
  • Portuguese phrasebook or translation app for local interaction.
  • Openness to local customs and a relaxed pace.

General Brazil Travel

  • Adapt to local conditions, including warm climate and occasional heavy rains.
  • An attitude of flexibility for unexpected changes in plans.
  • Good quality camera for capturing city scenes and natural beauty.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization and compression. Wear your heaviest items (like hiking boots) on the plane to reduce luggage weight.

Consider bringing a separate small bag for laundry. Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport to avoid excess baggage fees.