Panama Packing List

LUGGAGE…………………………………………………..…………………………………….

1 Carry-on bag (it must fit under your seat)

  • Put enough to survive for one day (include here fragile, valuable, perishable items, medicines, and essential toiletries)

(option 1) 1 Carry-on suitcase (22 inches or less) this is a great way to avoid the checked luggage fee or

(option 2) 1 Checked suitcase ($25 one-way fee; checked bag not to exceed 50 lbs.)

□ Read and adhere to TSA’s (www.tsa.gov) Liquid, Gel, and Aerosol Regulation for carry-on bags. As of 4/1/2010 the rules are:

  • All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in 3-ounce or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. They must be placed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag only. Each traveler can use only one, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.

Packing Tips

  • Pack heaviest items first
  • Make a list of the contents of your suitcase in case luggage is lost or stolen
  • Leave space in your suitcase for souvenirs or bring an extra empty bag.
  • Be sure to have your name and contact information on both carry-on and checked luggage

CLOTHES (for an average 5-6 day tour) …………………………………………………….

 ​If your group will visit a local orphanage or school, PLEASE make sure students pack appropriate clothes for the visit (Shoulders must be covered. Shorts, skirts or pants, must come down to the knees). Beach gear is not allowed at Puerto Rican schools or institutions.​

___ 1 pair of water shoes; they must have a good bottom and be secure on your feet. Flip-flops DO NOT count.

___2-3 bathing suits

___T-shirts / Tops (one for each tour day)

___1 additional shirt WITH LONG SLEEVES to protect from sunburn

___1 rashguard (aka rashie, sunguard, surf shirt, etc.) to wear with bathing suit to protect against sunburn in the water

___Shorts (skirts)

___Jeans, light long pants, dress (optional)

___1-2 set of old clothes for service project. Must be clothes that can get ruined.

___1-2 pair of sneakers or walking shoes for extended walking (1 pair for possible wet muddy areas)

___1 casual restaurant outfit (nothing fancy)

___Sleepwear

___Socks, underwear, toiletries

___1 pair of beach sandals and/or Tevas, crocks…

___1 pair of sturdy (or hiking) shoes with good ankle support is highly recommended for zipline & hiking

 

ADDITIONAL NECESSARY ITEMS……………………………………………………………

___ Valid U.S. Passport and 2 photocopies. Keep photocopies in separate location from your passport.

official photo ID)

___Small travel size bottle of hand sanitizer

___Several masks, enough for your tour. Cloth or disposable is fine, but no bandanas or gaiters.

___Water Bottle (free filtered water refills daily)

___Insect repellent (3 oz. or less unless you check it)

___Photo I.D. (school or another official photo ID)

___Labeled medications (name, contents) if needed

___Photocopy of passport (give one to your teacher)

___Quart-size bag for liquids/gels

___Sun block

___Backpack for hiking and day trips (with your name)

___2 Plastic bags for wet clothes

___1-2 beach towels

___Money (see Spending Money section)

___Raincoat / poncho – you will need it for the rainforest / hiking trip

 

OPTIONAL ITEMS……………………………………………………………….………………

___Cell phone & charger (your school may have a different policy)

___ATM / Cash Card

___Accessories: Sunglasses, belts, watch, hand sanitizer, wipes…

___Hat to protect from sun

___Camera, charger, extra batteries, or memory cards

___Adapter for 3 prong devices if needed. Panama may only have 2 prong outlets. Voltage adapter not necessary. Panama uses same 110 volt outlets as U.S.

___Headsets and snacks for the plane (no more free food on flights)

___Beach or bus games (i.e., Frisbee, hacky-sack, cards…)

___Book to read, pens, pencils, diary writing paper, etc.

___Vitamins / personal first aid kit

___Snorkeling equipment

 

SPENDING MONEY………………………………………..……………………………………

Vamonos Tours will be covering most of your meals and activities during your trip. We will also provide filtered water during the day. Experience has shown that $200 or less should be more than sufficient unless you plan major gift buying. You will need money for:

___$25 per day for meals and refreshments/snacks that are not included

___Bring some cash (approx. $100) and use an ATM card if you need more. You’ll find compatible ATM machines all over Panama. Debit cards work in most areas.

___One or two optional activities

___Souvenirs

___ We recommend you check with your group leader on tipping. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend the following for your group: $​2.50 per traveler per day for Tour ​Manager, $​2 per traveler per day for​ Tour​ Director, $​2.5 per traveler per day for assistant and driver.

WHAT NOT TO BRING………………………………………………………………………….

___Traveler’s checks

___Any expensive equipment (fancy camera, laptops, video game systems, etc.)

___More than $100 in cash, credit cards (let us know if you intend to make a special purchase)

___Knives, fireworks or other dangerous equipment; weapons are strictly forbidden.

 

ON THE DAY YOU LEAVE…………………………………..…………………………………

___Wear comfortable clothes without any metal for flight.

___Make sure your contact information is on each bag, even carry-on.

___Double check you have your PASSPORT, the itinerary, and a little cash with you.

___Make sure any important medicine is in your carry-on in case luggage is lost.

___Be well rested. Drink plenty of liquids the day before you leave.

___Get to the airport early. You will NOT be eligible for a refund due to a missed flight.