What to pack for Panama

Luggage and bags: We ordered luggage from High Sierra for this trip. They have a cool line of luggage that is very versatile. The main pack has a lot of storage and has a zip-off front compartment that magically transforms into a daypack. You can roll the luggage, or unzip the back of the main compartment and you can wear the whole thing as a backpack to free up your hands while shopping or sprinting through the airport to make that tight connection. Did I mention that it also fits in the overhead storage on most airplanes as long as the front daypack is unzipped?!?!?! The perfect item for traveling in Panama.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: I found that having two pair of "convertible" pants (zip off legs to make shorts) was all I needed for pants,throw in a few t-shirts, one wrinkle-free slightly dressy shirt, a very lightweight waterproof hooded jacket, and an umbrella and you are off to Panama.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Obviously bring any medications that you are currently taking. We found it convenient to bring along some "Shout" wipes for unexpected stains, "Off" mosquito repellant makes some handy individual wipes as well. Buy them at home before taking off, as we did not find them in Panama. Most everything else can be purchased when you are there at good prices at the larger Pharmacias located throughout Panama City before taking off to more remote locales.

Photo Equipment: We brought along our digital camera and digital video recorder and a small tabletop tripod. Don't forget your charger and an extra memory card or two!!

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: Make sure you have a flashlight and extra batteries. We bought these at a store at Albrook Mall before catching our flight to Bocas.

Miscellaneous: Make sure you leave any trace of a bad attitude back at home. You are not in America although we seem to be taking over the country there, so please do your best to represent whatever country you come from in a positive manner, and you will find that Panamanians are some of the warmest and friendly people you are likely to encounter. Try to brush up on some common phrases in Spanish, and your experience will be greatly improved. A lot of Panamanians speak English, but don't go to THEIR country and expect them to speak YOUR language.

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Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: it rains a lot in the Northern hemisphere's summer(June July August) which is of course panama's winter. This mostly means that in between being upwards of 90 degrees farenheit, it rains for an hour or so. However, up in the mountains, like near David, Volcan and my little town of Rio Sereno, it doesn't get quite as hot so the rain is a little colder.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Also, the bugs or "bichos" bit a lot! Bring bug spray, which might help but more importantly, bring aloe vera, calomine lotion or whatever you know will soothe those horrible itchy bites. They do not have aloe vera in most little towns and the closest thing I found was menthol cold cream which actually helped a little, but nt as much as aloe would.

Luggage and bags: Just bring a carry on.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Clothes are sooooo cheap here. T shirts $3 jeans $5 if you need anything just buy it.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: You can get everything here. Relax

Miscellaneous: Bring long pants to wear out at night. They are more conservative and frown down on short skirts and shorts.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: The high season is mid December-mid April, when it rains the least. Panama, except for the highlands, is nearly always hot and humid (days in the 80s-90s F/28-37 C and nights not much cooler). With the aid of air-conditioning and sea breezes, Panama can be enjoyed all year, though you should expect it to rain an inch a day during the May-November rainy season. You may need a sweater or jacket in the mornings and evenings.

Luggage and bags: Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
Sandals
Cap or hat
Sun Screen
Camera
Lots of film
Water proof camera bag
Back pack or fanny pack
Current passport
Travelers checks
Swimming suit
Short sleeve shirts
Shorts
Casual cloths for evenings out

Luggage and bags: If you are heading to the Gap, the Darien Gap, not the American store, then make sure you are preparred. You need to travel light. You also need the right equipment. I suggest you contact Patricia Upton. Email me and I can send you her email.

Luggage and bags: If we go back I will pack lots of lightwieght cotton clothes because ofthe heat and bugs. We always pack just the essentials when we are going onland. A trip on the cruise hsip is totally different-we're not moving the luggage!

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Get a Panama hat-it sure saves your head!

Miscellaneous: International Travel Maps
Panama

ISBN: 1-55341-139-8

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