Panama
Panama’s tropical climate determines much of what to pack. Expect warmth and humidity year-round. Focus on lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying fabrics.
Your planned activities determine specific attire. Modesty is appreciated at religious sites.
Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers are essential for city and attraction exploration.
Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for relaxation, pool, beach, or casual hot weather.
Water shoes are useful for water activities like kayaking or exploring rocky beaches.
Copies of your documents, both physical and digital, provide a safety net.
Panama uses 110-120V (60Hz) with Type A and Type B outlets (US standard). Modern electronics are usually dual-voltage. Purchasing a local SIM card is an economical way to have local calls and mobile data. Major providers are Claro, Digicel, and Tigo.
A versatile camera captures the Canal's vastness and surrounding wildlife. Cloud storage or a portable hard drive are good for backups. Useful apps simplify navigation and communication.
Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for automatic photo and document backups.
A Portable hard drive for secure physical backup of large photo/video files.
Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi. Also Airalo for eSIMs.
A prepared health kit offers peace of mind and addresses minor issues quickly. Carry all prescription medications in their original, labeled containers, with documentation.
Panama is close to the equator, with intense sun. Mosquitoes are prevalent, specifically during the wet season or in natural areas near the Canal (e.g., Gamboa Rainforest). Protect yourself accordingly.
Binoculars significantly enhance the experience at Miraflores Locks or during a Canal transit tour.
Protect your electronics from splashes on Canal transit, Gatun Lake, or Monkey Island tours.
Gear for trails like Metropolitan Natural Park or Soberanía National Park.
These smaller items enhance comfort and security during your travels.
Reduce waste and stay prepared for the tropical environment.
A Quick-drying travel towel is convenient for beach trips or unexpected showers.
Consider a Helmet if cycling beyond the Amador Causeway.
Bring specific brands of toiletries or specialized medications hard to find locally.
Bring your own if essential, as these might be expensive or hard to find.
Pack enough medication for your entire trip, plus a few extra days, in your carry-on bag. This handles unexpected delays.
For photographers, a portable hard drive provides a secure physical backup for large photo and video files.
