What to pack for your trip to Buenos Aires — Shop Hop Buenos Aires (2024)

FAQs

Is it acceptable to wear shorts in Buenos Aires? ›

Dress in Buenos Aires is dressy casual; if men wear blue jeans, they probably are wearing a sports jacket as well. Plain ole casual casual is out; shorts are rarely seen in the city. Many of the finer restaurants require men to have coat and tie. For women pants suits are acceptable.

The best way to see the city is on foot so pack comfy footwear, plus the pavements around the city are notoriously uneven, so ladies leave behind the stilettos you'll only wear once (no matter how fabulous they are) and stick to comfy flats and block heels or wedges.

Men should wear dark coloured, conservative business suits. Women should wear elegant business suits or dresses. Good quality accessories are important for both sexes. Dress well if you want to make a good impression.

Do not wear flashy or expensive jewelry and watches or expose cameras, cell phones, or other expensive technology devices. Lock your passport in the hotel safe or your luggage and carry a photocopy of it. Do not carry large amounts of cash, and use ATMs in public places. If confronted, do not resist.

“Garments go through a long and complex supply chain where the apparel components come from many sources and the final item has gone through many hands, with potential exposure to various bacteria, fungi, dirt, and insects,” says Leonas. “Laundering them will help remove and destroy these.”

Make sure to bring snacks or toys. Don't be a victim of circ*mstance. Always zip your purse and keep your shopping bags close by. Be courteous to store employees. Your patience may be tried if the line is long.

Opt for casual attire such as jeans, a simple top, and comfortable shoes. Consider the weather and dress in layers for potential changes. Avoid overly formal or uncomfortable clothing. Keep accessories minimal for convenience while trying on clothes and shoes.

The classic Argentine male gaucho costume combines a pair of black trousers with a white shirt and, above it, an open short sleeve jacket. These garments form the basis of the “gaucho-look”, which also includes a series of key accessories that are required in order for the ensemble to be considered truly “gaucho”.

What is considered bad manners in Argentina? ›

Using a toothpick in public is considered bad manners. Blowing one's nose or clearing one's throat at the table is also considered poor manners. Eating on public transport is seen as poor etiquette. However, eating on public streets is considered acceptable by most people.

Dinner service at most restaurants is from around 8pm until after midnight. As porteños tend to eat late, don't be surprised if you're the only diners before 9pm!

In summer, Buenos Aires is HOT and humid, extremely hot. Pack light and flowy comfortable clothing in natural fibers. Bring a hat, wear sunscreen, comfort is key. In winter, it can be wet and dreary but not extremely cold (very rarely dipping below freezing).

Temperatures rise quickly in Buenos Aires during the summer months, so be prepared to sweat! Humidity percentages are high and the sun shines bright and strong. To prepare for the heat, pack comfortable shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, dresses, sandals, running shoes, one light jacket and one medium jacket, and a hat.

Men wear pants in Latin America. Shorts are for sleeping, swimming and soccer. Never wear hats in church buildings or during religious programs. All shorts and skirts must be below the knees, not at your knees.