MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Bissau

Dry Season Apparel

Lightweight, lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen are perfect for the heat. These materials help with warmth management.

Daytime & Evening

  • Loose-fitting short-sleeved shirts, t-shirts, shorts. Amazon
  • Light long-sleeved shirts. Amazon
  • Slacks for cooler evenings and mosquito protection.

Wet Season Apparel

Prioritize lightweight plus swift-quick-drying materials due to high humidity. Evening attire focuses on mosquito protection.

Rain & Humidity

Footwear Guide

City Exploration

Comfortable, sturdy closed-toe Walking shoes or sneakers for uneven streets.

Uneven Terrain

Wet Conditions

Waterproof shoes or Sandals that handle mud and waterlogged streets.

Rain & Mud

Relaxation

Sandals or flip-flops offer comfort for unwinding in the evenings.

Downtime

Cultural Dress & Activities

Dress Code & Activity Attire

Modest dress is appropriate and shows respect for local customs, especially outside central tourist areas, and when visiting official buildings or religious sites.

  • Women: Avoid overly revealing clothing; shoulders and knees should generally remain covered.
  • Men: T-shirts and pants or long shorts are acceptable for most situations.
  • Religious Sites: Ensure shoulders and knees are covered. A headscarf for women visiting mosques may show respect.
  • City Exploration: Comfortable, sturdy closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers are recommended.
  • Swimming: Swimwear is acceptable at hotel pools or designated beach areas on excursions.
  • General: Observe local people and adjust your attire for cultural integration.
  • Comfort: Open-toed footwear or flip-flops-flops suit unwinding in the evenings.
  • Formal Events: Smart casual attire for specific business or diplomatic occasions is a possibility.

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Plugs

Bissau uses 220V power at a frequency of 50Hz. Ensure your electronics are compatible.

Power Essentials

  • Voltage is 220V and how often it happens is 50Hz.
  • Plug types are Type C (two round pins) and Type F (a europlug with earth clips).
  • A Universal travel adapter is advised for compatibility.

Mobile & Internet

Bissau uses a GSM network (900/1800 MHz); most international phones are compatible. Check your phone's band compatibility.

Connectivity Tips

  • Local SIM cards from MTN and Orange are available; passport Registration is necessary.
  • Mobile coverage is good within Bissau but limited outside the capital.
  • Wi-Fi may be you can get it in some airport areas, often unreliable or requiring a fee.

Data & Device Protection

Camera Gear

Pack dust and moisture-resistant camera equipment. Spare batteries are useful as a result of potential power outages. Consider B&H Photo for gear: B&H Photo.

Charging Solutions

Portable chargers and power banks compensate for frequent power cuts and allow device charging while exploring.

Data Backup

Utilize cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox. An External hard drive or USB stick provides additional a copy for photos and documents. Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure online activity.

Health & Personal Care

Personal Medical Kit

A well-stocked Personal first aid kit helps on all trip. Local healthcare supplies may be scarce.

Kit Contents

Tropical Climate Protection

Malaria risk is high; mosquito prevention is . Strong sun calls for diligent protection.

Insect & Sun Defense

Specialty Health Items

Medications & Water

  • Sufficient supply of prescription medications with a doctor's note.
  • Over-the-non-prescription drugs for usual ailments (cold/flu, antacids).
  • Water purification tablets or a transportable filter as backup.

Hygiene & Comfort

  • Alcohol-based hand sanitizer and wet wipes for frequent cleaning.
  • Toiletries that may be difficult to find locally.
  • Motion sickness pills for boat travel (e.g., Bijagos Archipelago).

Activity Essentials

City Exploration Gear

Minimal specific gear is needed for urban exploration in Bissau. Focus on comfort and practicality.

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Small daypack for essentials
  • Lightweight, conservative attire
  • Water bottle

Excursion & Nature Gear

For trips outside Bissau, like to the Bijagos Archipelago, specific items enhance your experience.

Photography & Observation

Capture Bissau's beauty and wildlife with appropriate equipment.

  • Dust/moisture-resistant camera gear
  • Extra charged batteries
  • Sufficient memory cards
  • Binoculars for birdwatching

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Consider Renting

  • Snorkeling or scuba diving gear for island excursions (inquire about availability and quality).
  • A 4x4 vehicle with a local driver for travel outside Bissau.
  • Specialized fishing gear (if you prefer not to move your own).
  • Basic umbrellas for short downpours if not bringing a rain jacket.

Consider Bringing

  • Personal-fit snorkeling equipment for hygiene and comfort.
  • High-quality Binoculars for birdwatching.
  • Specific camera lenses or tripods if dedicated photography is planned.
  • Any personal comfort items that enhance your experience.

General Packing Notes

Comfort & Security

These additional items contribute to comfort, security, and preparedness throughout your trip.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Sustainability & Local Finds

Sustainable travel choices and local items enhance your experience while minimizing impact.

Eco-Friendly & Local

Consider Bringing

High-Quality Insect Repellent

Bring a sufficient supply from home. Look for DEET or picaridin.

Specific Medications/Toiletries

If you need particular Western brands or have sensitivities.

Good Quality Travel Gear

Niche items for instance a durable Travel bag or Gear are hard to find locally.

Offline Entertainment

Books, downloaded movies, or music for downtime, as internet access may be unreliable.

Destination-Specific Mentions

Local Essentials

  • Flashlight/Headlamp for power cuts.
  • Small daypack for daily essentials.
  • Offline entertainment (books, movies) for periods with no internet.

Recommended Apps

  • Maps.me for offline navigation.
  • Google Translate (Portuguese offline pack).
  • WhatsApp for communicating with locals.

Smart Packing Advice

Efficient packing for Bissau means focusing on essentials and anticipating local conditions. Lightweight plus swift-drying clothes, strong insect repellent, and backup power are .

Prioritize items difficult to find nearby or that ensure your personal comfort and safety.