Your Go To Packing List for Guatemala

Guatemala has to be one of my favorite places I’ve ever traveled to! There’s something so special about it. It’s also the place where I got engaged and the place where I plan to get married…so I’m definitely biased.

Anyway, if you’re planning a trip there (yay), check out this packing list to help you get ready!

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1. Backpack instead of a suitcase

This is more important if you plan on venturing over to Lake Atitlan, but the cobblestone streets in Antigua are also unforgiving. Traveling with a backpack is definitely much easier than a suitcase in Guatemala. Osprey is a great brand.

We traveled with a suitcase and regretted it. There are a lot of sandy parts and tough streets to walk on to get to your accommodation depending on where you’re staying.

That being said, you can definitely do it with a suitcase, we did! Just make sure it has good wheels and you might have to be carrying it for part of your travel.  

2. Backpack Rain Cover

With bringing a backpack, make sure you pack a backpack rain cover to make sure all your belongings stay dry!

3. Day Bag

There are several day hikes throughout Guatemala, bring a day bag for these! This is one of my favorite day bags because it’s foldable. I can pack it so easily with all my other things and just pull it out when I need it. That way I don’t have to unpack my Tetris of other backpacks.

4. Dry Bag

There are tons of water activities in Guatemala, especially on the lake. Lots of kayaking, SUPs, cliff jumping, etc. Bring a dry bag so you can keep your belongings with you dry!

5. Rain Jacket

The weather is obviously unpredictable, so be sure to bring a rain jacket!

6. Swimsuit

There are tons of swimming spots on Lake Atitlan depending on where you stay. Plus, the cliff jumping in Cerro Tzankujil in San Marcos is a super cool experience!

7. Pants

At night, Guatemala gets cold! Bring loose-fitting pants so you’re able to stay warm while walking out and about. I wore these pants pretty much every day haha. They are comfortable and pair well with a tank top!

8. Long Sleeve or Jacket for Layering

Also, bring a jacket or a long sleeve for layering at night! These could be a great option that still looks great with outfits, and there’s nothing wrong with a classic zip up jacket.

9. Yoga Attire

There are tons of yoga class options in Guatemala. Especially in San Marcos on Lake Atitlan. Even if you’re not a yogi, there’s something so amazing about these classes with views overlooking the lake. At least doing one class is a must-do! Lululemon is a fan favorite, but I also LOVE Paragon as a cheaper dupe!

10. Hiking Boots or Good Sneakers

There are tons of great hiking spots in Guatemala, bring a pair of hiking boots or good tennis shoes. If you’re planning on hiking Acatenango, I would definitely recommend hiking boots or trail runners. You can check out my separate packing guide for Acatenango here to help guide your packing for that!

11. Imodium

I had some veggies that were a bit too fresh when on the lake, and I definitely needed some Imodium. I recommend bringing it, just in case your body doesn’t agree with something you eat!

12. Dramamine

Travel between some parts of Guatemala includes driving through some windy roads. Plus, if you’re visiting the lake, the boat taxis can get a bit rocky! Make sure you get the non-drowsy version!

13. Electrolytes

Guatemala has a pretty high altitude in some areas, this is a good way to stay hydrated to help you from feeling the effects!

14. Water Bottle

Bring a water bottle so you can refill it with fresh water to make sure you’re hydrated with the altitude. This is my favorite water bottle for traveling.

15. Good Walking Shoes

One of the top destinations in Guatemala is Antigua because it’s amazing. What’s not amazing, is walking on the cobblestone streets sometimes. Keep the heels at home and pack good walking shoes!

I always recommend Converse, Birkenstocks, or Chacos. Those are my go-to travel shoes for walking around. The Chacos would be a great option for doing cliff jumping!

16. Bug Spray

Bring some bug spray! Especially if you’re traveling during the summer. If you’re worried about the amount of liquid you have, you can also bring these bug repellent wipes.

When heading to Guatemala, pack yourself casual and lightweight clothes. It does get hot during the day and there’s really not a need for anything too fancy. You will still want clothes to layer for nighttime. 

If you’re planning on hiking Acatenango, which you totally should it’s one the best travel experiences, you’ll want to pack some different items that are not included in this list!

Most places you book through have a lot of clothes and things you need for rent, but in case you don’t want to rent those things check out my packing list for Acatenango here!