A Panama Packing List if You Want to Stay Cool

TravelGuidesCentral AmericaPanama
Written By Lacey Lehotzky

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Panama was one of the sweatiest, sunniest, most vibrant trips I’ve ever taken—and I loved every second. But if you don’t pack right, you’ll either roast or be soaked the whole time (ask me how I know!). This Panama packing list will help you dress for the jungle, the beaches, and the cities, while staying cool and comfortable. From what to wear hiking to what to pack for wandering the streets of the old city, I’ve got you covered.

What’s the weather like in Panama?

Panama is hot (so freaking hot), humid (so freaking humid), and lush—year-round. Expect temps in the 80s-90s°F (27-32°C) and high humidity. Rain is common in the rainy season (May-November), usually in afternoon bursts. But fret not! I’m coming at you with a Panama packing list that will keep you as cool as is reasonably possible.

What should you wear in Panama?

Pack for sweaty tropical days. Locals wear casual, breathable clothes. In Panama City, you’ll see everything from sundresses to smart casual in nicer restaurants. In the jungle or beach, it’s all about comfort and protection from the sun and bugs. Of which there are plenty of both.

Dressing Tips for Panama

City Days

  • Sundress or linen pants + tank

  • Sandals or sneakers

Jungle/Beach

  • Quick-dry shorts and shirts

  • Swimsuits

  • Water shoes or hiking sandals

Panama Packing List

Shoes + Boots

  • Sandals

  • Sneakers or walking shoes

  • Water shoes (these are an absolute must. Can’t go wrong with Chacos or Tevas!)

Jeans + Pants + Dresses

Tops

  • Tank tops

  • Short sleeve shirts

  • Lightweight long sleeve UV shirt (bug/sun protection. Check these out!)

Accessories

  • Wide-brim hat (this one because you’re going to want to put your hair up off the back of your neck)

  • Sunglasses

  • Swimsuits

  • Buff/scarf for jungle treks (optional but might be nice for a longer hike)

Toiletries

  • Mosquito spray (seriously, pack this. We love these wipes!)

  • Sunscreen—use reef safe or wear UV clothing on the beach to protect our oceans

Electronics

  • Waterproof phone pouch (love these) or GoPro for water activities

  • Camera

  • Travel adapter if coming from outside the United States

  • Kindle or book to read by the pool

Panama Outfit Ideas

This is the moment where I have to laugh. The following photo is—I am not kidding—the only photo I have of me on the entire trip. I will caveat that I was stressed at the time. It was the week of the OG TikTok ban, and most of my book business runs on that platform. To put it mildly, I was freaking tf out. That week probably took a year off my life. So please enjoy the one, absolutely terrible, photo of me from Panama.

Final Thoughts on Panama Packing List

Be prepared to craft your Panama packing list for HOT HOT HOT! I swear this is the hottest place I’ve ever been, and I’ve been to the Galapagos too. For a nature-packed itinerary, check out my post How to Spend 5 Days in Panama!

Lacey Lehotzky
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