Jungle & Rainforest Kit List
A jungle and rainforest trip is like no other. It’s creatures in their natural habitat, the rustle of the rainforest canopy, the torrential downpours and don’t forget the humidity.
This begs the question of what to pack?!
No worries! We have you covered! We’ve put together a packing list/check list to print and tick off if needed.
It’s not a list where you need everything on it, but more a recommended guide to help with your packing.
There are links that will also take you to the right product section by clicking on the underlined text just to make life that little bit easier. You’re welcome!
Clothing
Remember – Insect repellent clothing is a must, neutral and earth tones, layers and quick drying fabrics will be your best friend. Think wicking fabric, light and airy material as it will be hot and humid in the day and cooler early mornings and evenings. You don’t need lots either! The animals won’t notice if you wear the same shirt 3 times in a row and everyone else will be in the same boat. Space is a premium.
Purple Turtle’s Helpful tip – It gets very hot, wet, sweaty and humid! There are washing facilities at most lodges, so don’t be afraid to layer or double up and take some laundry wash with you to freshen up your wardrobe. Space is tight and luggage needs to be lightweight, so think convertibles and shirts can be used as jackets.
Shirts / Tops – long sleeves are the best for bite prevention, sun protection and walking through prickly and scratchy plants. Think layers.
Trousers / Convertibles / Shorts – long trousers are best for your trip, but shorts are handy for your down time.
Lightweight, waterproof jacket – it will rain and you will get wet. One that packs down small or in it’s own stuff sack is the better option.
Fleece – only one you will need but great for the evening when things may get a little more chilly. Doesn’t need to be thick, just a thin one will do.
Hat – not necessarily needed, but a water resistant hat or cap will allow water to run off, while still allowing visibility.
Socks – comfortable with some form of cushioning. The longer the better.
Leech Socks – Invaluable for this type of trip. Creates a leech proof barrier, preventing leeches from reaching your skin.
Sturdy closed toe shoes or boots – (that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy!) You will be doing lots of walking, so wear your most comfortable boots and break them in before you go if new. The last thing you want to do is wear new boots and they hurt.
Flip Flops or Sandals – taking off wet and muddy boots to let them dry for tomorrows adventure and slipping your feet into something dry and airy will feel amazing.
Underwear
Crawler Guards – great for keeping out unwanted bugs.
Swimming gear – most lodges have a pool and there may be a waterfall on your outing, so you wouldn’t want to miss using it!
Poncho – lightweight and great for those heavy downpours.
Note – most lodges/tours hire out rubber boots if you didn’t want to take additional, heavy items. They may not fit comfortably, but it is an option.
Insect Repellent & Sunscreen
Remember – Check to see what injections you will need before you travel.
Purple Turtle’s Helpful Tip – Prevention is better than cure. Diseases are prevalent and can cause major harm, we always recommend DEET. It’s up to you if you wish to use it, but we always say we would rather use DEET for two-three weeks than risk the consequences of Malaria, Zika or Yellow Fever.
DEET – in any form and anything with 40% upwards. It is and always will be the best at protecting you from diseases such as Malaria.
EX4 Permethrin Treatment – really useful if you have an existing wardrobe and to treat textiles and fabrics out there – patch test first.
Mosquito Net – check with your guide if you need one if you’re staying out overnight. Take into account the dimensions, weight and if there is anything to hang them from.
Afterbite – Bite and Sting Relief – just in case!
Sunscreen – a waterproof UPF50+ is recommended.
Lip Balm – with a high SPF, it’s the one thing we forget, lips! You will thank us later.
Aftersun – even though you may think you’ll be shaded through the canopy, the sun will get you and the cooling sensation of an aftersun will be a welcome one.
Toiletries
Remember – Be careful when you drink water, as it may not be as clean as you’d hoped.
Purple Turtle’s Helpful Tip – Biodegradable toiletries would be best as it helps reduce pollution in the area your are visiting.
Ladies – Make up isn’t a great idea to take, only as the humidity will literally melt it off your face and ruin your good mascara, so don’t risk taking your make up. Think BB cream or waterproof mascara if you can’t go without.
Laundry Wash – great for refreshing your wardrobe. Saves on space and doubling up.
Face cloth or small absorbent towel – it can get hot in the day and wet when it rains. So if you keep it in your bag or by the pool, it’s handy to have.
Chlorine Drops / Filtered Water Bottle – When you can’t guarantee fresh clean water, a back up is a lifesaver.
Note – You can get all in one shampoo / conditioner / body wash and laundry wash, so if you’re not particularly fussy and want to skim some luggage weight, toiletries is a good start.
First Aid
Remember – If you need to take medication, make sure you have plenty to take with you and that it’s stored correctly to prevent it from getting wet.
Purple Turtle’s Helpful Tip – Blister plasters!
Plasters
Paracetemol / Ibuprofen / Aspirin / Medication
Allergy medicine / Antihistamines
Antiseptic Cream
Aspivenin – Poison Extractor (just in case!)
Motion Sickness tablets or wristbands – if you don’t travel well, these will help remove that sicky feeling.
Oral Rehydration Salts – if you do get poorly.
Hand Sanitiser – for obvious reasons.
Accessories
Remember – keep your valuables safe and close to you. Any electronics you take, make sure they have the proper protection and waterproof covers.
Purple Turtle’s Helpful Tip – Photo’s are a great, but why not take a diary and pen to document your trip? You can always look back and remember what you saw, how you felt and re-live those memories and adventures.
Phone charger – just remember you may not use your phone that much as reception won’t be ideal.
Spare Batteries / Spare Memory card – make sure your camera is fully charged and to take spares! They go quicker than you think.
Binoculars – They don’t have to be all singing and dancing, just a small pair will do.
Dry bag or rucksack cover – to keep your stuff dry when the heavens open.
Lightweight Torch or Head Torch – most lodges aren’t on the main grid, so the electric may get shut off after dark. If you need the loo or have an early morning start, they’re a good option.
Lightweight rucksack – You will be doing lots of travelling, be it by plane, canoe/kayak, jeep, van and of course walking. You will need a day sack that is lightweight to keep your items with you while out on trek. It also needs to be easy accessible but secure, so a lock may come in handy.
Document pouches – waterproof document pouches are handy to keep with you if you’re out on a jaunt and need to keep your valuables safe and dry. Be aware of pickpockets in the city. Money belts are also a good option.
Sunglasses / Contact lenses / Spare Glasses
Cash – cash is king as they say and handy to tip the locals, to buy any gifts, forgotten items or anything else that takes your fancy.
Note – phone cameras these days are good, but not great when using zoom, they just don’t seem to cut it here. For clear, amazing pictures, a camera with a good zoom function would be better. A waterproof case, spare memory card, batteries and a powerbank will be invaluable.
