What to Pack & Bring: El Yunque

Clothing for the Climate

El Yunque's tropical rainforest climate calls for thoughtful clothing choices. High humidity and frequent rain are constant factors.

Year-Round Attire

Lightweight, breathable, quick-drying clothing is ideal. Synthetics or merino wool perform better than cotton.
A light Waterproof rain jacket serves well for sudden downpours and offers light warmth at higher elevations.
A light long-sleeved shirt offers Sun protection and insect deterrence.

Activity-Specific Attire

Select clothing suited for hiking and potential swimming in rainforest waters.

Hiking & Swimming Gear

Quick-dry hiking pants or Convertible pants offer protection against insects and scratches.
Moisture-wicking shirts (synthetic or merino wool) maintain comfort.
Pack a Swimsuit for waterfalls and a Quick-dry towel.

Footwear Essentials

Hiking Shoes

Waterproof hiking shoes or sandals with good grip are strongly advised for muddy, wet, and slippery trails.

Avoid open-toed shoes like flip-flops for serious hiking.

Water Shoes

Water shoes with good soles are a choice for trails with stream crossings.

They serve well for spontaneous dips in natural pools.

Casual Footwear

Comfortable sandals or walking shoes are good for exploring towns or relaxing.

Bring at least two pairs of hiking socks; one pair likely gets wet.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

U.S. Citizens: Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (U.S. Driver's license or U.S. Passport).
International Visitors: Carry your valid passport and U.S. Visa or ESTA approval notice.
Travel Insurance Policy: Carry printed and digital copies of your policy details, including emergency contacts.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Advised if renting a car and not an U.S. Citizen.

Vaccination Records & Health Documentation: A copy of your vaccination record serves well for medical emergencies.
Reservations: Keep copies of flight, accommodation, and rental car reservations. Includes timed entry for El Yunque.
Emergency Contacts: Compile a list of family, friends, bank, insurance, local embassy.
IDs for Discounts: Bring student/senior/press IDs if you qualify for discounts.

Technology & Connectivity

Power & Mobile

Plan for the power needs and connectivity challenges of a rainforest environment.

Power & Connectivity Basics

Puerto Rico uses 120V, 60Hz electricity (Type A/B plugs). International travelers will need a Universal power adapter.
U.S. Mobile carriers provide service without roaming charges. International visitors consider a local SIM or eSIM from Airalo.
Connectivity within El Yunque can be spotty. Download offline maps and information before entering the forest.

Cameras & Charging

Capture memories and maintain device power during your adventures.

Photo Gear & Power Banks

A waterproof or water-resistant camera (GoPro or Smartphone with Waterproof case) is ideal. Consider B&H Photo for gear.
Bring extra batteries and memory cards. The lush scenery encourages many photos. An External hard drive for backup.
Portable chargers and High-capacity power banks make certain your phone and camera stay charged for long days.

Digital Security

Data Backup

Use cloud storage services or an External hard drive for photos and digital documents.

VPN for Security

Consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure Wi-Fi use.

Offline Access

Download offline maps (Google Maps) and translation tools (Google Translate) for areas without internet.

Health & Wellness Essentials

First Aid & Medications

Prepare a personal health kit to address common travel ailments and unique rainforest conditions.

Essential Health Kit

A Basic first aid kit: adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen), Anti-diarrhea medication.
Prescription medications in original containers with documentation.
Over-the-counter remedies: antacids, cold/flu remedies, Hydrocortisone cream for bites.

Sun & Insect Protection

Shield yourself from the strong sun and common rainforest insects.

Climate-Specific Protection

High-strength DEET or Picaridin-based insect repellent is necessary.
Broad-spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30+), a Wide-brimmed hat, and Sunglasses.
Hand sanitizer and preferred brands of toiletries.

Special Health Notes

Rainforest-Specific Concerns

Blister treatment (Moleskin) and electrolyte rehydration salts for humidity.
A Personal water filter or Purification tablets can serve well for refilling water from natural sources.
Altitude sickness is not a concern; El Yunque's peaks are not high enough to cause it.

Travel Discomfort

Motion sickness medication for winding roads to and within El Yunque.
A small, foldable Umbrella gives quick protection from sudden showers.
Consider a thermos for hot or cold drinks to enjoy on the trails.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Gear needed for planned activities.

Waterproof daypack with a rain cover.
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
Trekking poles (optional, for slippery trails).
Headlamp or flashlight for early morning/late evening.

Wildlife Observation

Elevate your viewing experience for rainforest inhabitants.

Binoculars for birdwatching and spotting canopy wildlife.
A small, lightweight quick-dry towel serves well for spontaneous dips in waterfalls.
A waterproof pouch or case for your phone and wallet.
Extra plastic bags to store wet or muddy clothing and shoes separately.

Water Activities & Other

Prepare for water features and general readiness.

Snorkel Mask, snorkel, and fins for nearby beaches (rent locally).
Camping is generally not permitted within El Yunque National Forest.
A whistle signals your location for emergencies while hiking.
Dry bag for safeguarding electronics and documents from rain.

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Items to Bring

Hiking shoes: For proper fit and comfort, avoiding blisters.
Rain gear: For hygiene and reliability.
Personal first aid kit.
Specialized clothing (UV-protective).

Items to Rent

Snorkel gear, surfboards for nearby Luquillo Beach.
These are often available at reasonable prices from local vendors.
Consider larger items to save luggage space.
Ensure rental items are clean and functional before use.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items elevate your travel comfort and security.

Travel Enhancements

A Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for long flights or car rides.
A TSA-approved luggage lock for checked bags.
A Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet for valuables.
A small Personal alarm for solo travelers.

Eco-Friendly & Practical

Support sustainable travel and prepare for rainforest conditions.

Reusable & Practical Items

A Reusable water bottle to maintain hydration and minimize plastic waste.
A Reusable shopping bag for groceries or souvenirs.
Reusable utensils for takeout meals.
A small, lightweight quick-dry towel serves well for spontaneous dips in waterfalls or river pools.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Minimize Waste

Reduce single-use plastics.

Support Local

Choose local businesses.

Respect Nature

Stay on marked trails.

Educate Yourself

Learn about the ecosystem.

Destination-Specific Preparations

Rainforest Readiness

Waterproof pouch or case for phone/wallet.
Small, foldable umbrella for quick protection.
Physical map of El Yunque trails.

General Travel Aid

Extra power bank for phone.
Extra plastic bags for wet/muddy items.
Water-resistant camera.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack versatile items that can serve multiple purposes.

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles.

What to Pack & Bring