Brazil, Summer
A curated packing list for your trip between Rio beaches, Salvador old town, and a stretch into the Amazon. Built for tropical heat, sudden afternoon storms, and the rhythm of long Brazilian nights.
Border & arrival
What customs and immigration expect.
On the ground
How life actually works once you arrive.
US, Canadian, and Australian visitors need an e-Visa
In effect since April 10, 2025. Apply at brazil.vfsevisa.com for US$80.90; approved in 48-72 hours typically. US e-Visa is valid 10 years (multiple entry); Canadian and Australian valid 5 years. Stay capped at 90 days per visit, 180 days per 12-month period. From early 2026, airlines will not issue boarding passes without a valid e-Visa code.
Pix is now open to tourists, cards everywhere, cash for backups
Visa and Mastercard work in Rio, São Paulo, and Salvador hotels and restaurants. Pix (instant payment) used to need a Brazilian bank, but tourist apps like Wallbit now let foreigners pay with Pix directly, often with a 10% discount. Many small vendors and beach kiosks accept ONLY Pix. Bring reais as backup.
Yellow fever vaccine recommended (including for Rio)
Brazil does not require proof for entry, but the CDC recommends the vaccine for the Amazon region AND for Rio de Janeiro state (city and coastal islands included). Get the shot 10+ days before departure and carry the yellow card. Onward travel to neighboring countries (Colombia, Bolivia, etc.) often requires proof.
Type N plug, voltage varies by region
Brazil uses the unique Type N plug (three-pin) at 127V in most of the south and southeast (Rio, São Paulo) and 220V in the northeast and Brasília. Bring a universal adapter; check voltage on hair tools.
Tipping is usually included
Restaurants add a 10% service charge automatically (couvert). It is optional but customary to leave it. Round up taxis; tip housekeeping a few reais per night if service has been good.
Pickpocketing is the real risk
Violent crime against tourists is rare; theft is common in Rio, Salvador, and São Paulo. Leave watches and jewelry at the hotel; keep your phone in a front pocket; only carry what you can afford to lose to the beach.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Bookings, applications, and admin for the weeks before departure. Work backwards from your trip date.
- 6 weeks out
- 4 weeks out
- 2 weeks out
- 1 week out
- Day before
- Day of
Clothing
Lightweight, breathable, beach-ready. AC inside is aggressive; pack one light layer.
Shoes
Sandals do most of the work. Closed-toe for Amazon and city walks at night.
Toiletries & Personal Care
Sunscreen and bug spray are the heavy hitters. Local pharmacies (drogarias) have everything.
Health & Medications
Tropical conditions mean stomach issues, sunburn, and bites. Bring more than you think.
Documents & Money
Cards work in cities. Reais for everywhere else. Pix is huge but typically requires a Brazilian bank.
Tech & Electronics
Type N plug is unique to Brazil. Voltage is 127V south/southeast, 220V northeast and Brasília.
Luggage & Organization
Soft-sided bags travel beach taxis better. Skip the wheeled hard case for Salvador cobblestones.
Comfort & In-Transit
Long flights to Rio and São Paulo. Internal flights are short but frequent.
Weather & Climate Gear
Sun protection is non-negotiable. UV in Rio summer can hit 12+ (extreme).
Cultural & Activity-Specific
Beach culture is central. Carnival demands its own packing list within the list.
Safety & Precautions
Theft, not violence, is the real concern. Look like a local; do not flash.