What to Wear in Uruguay

General Style Tips

  • What you pack for Uruguay really does depend on whether you are spending time at the beach or in the countryside.
  • Montevideo is cosmopolitan and people tend to dress in a European style.
  • Clothes are more conservative and neutral, not the bright colors that you will find in other South American countries.
  • The key is neat and sleek.
  • Jeans are always popular and will serve as a versatile base to your wardrobe. Wear them with light layers such as camisoles or a t-shirt for the summer, or warmer ones e.g. a long-sleeved shirt and sweater in the winter.
  • Wearing shorts is acceptable here.
  • It can be cool in the evening so pack a pashmina or light sweater to pop round you.
  • light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
  • Ensure you bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
  • Lightweight natural fabrics are best in the heat and pack some long-sleeved shirts to protect you from the sun.

 

What Shoes To Pack

  • Your exploration of the stunning natural wonders of this country is likely to involve a good deal of walking, so make sure you have comfortable, lightweight shoes. We love Hotter shoes, for total comfort along with style.
  • The city nightlife is amazing, especially in Punta del Este, and many places won't let you in wearing tennis shoes or sneakers so pack some smart shoes or killer heels. We love the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.

Clothing Tips for Women

  • Leave your valaubles at home. A few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit if you need it.
  • A pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit too.
  • Avoid short skirts and revealing tops, and stick to more neutral colors.
  • If you are traveling on business, pack a dark trouser suit or knee length skirt-suit or dress. Formal attire is the custom, as is handing business cards to everyone.

Clothing Tips for Men

  • Have a look at the Madda Fella range of contemporary casual wear – shirts, shorts and polos.
  • If you are traveling on business, pack a normal business suit, shirt and tie. Formal attire is the custom, as is handing business cards to everyone.
  • For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.

Pack for the Weather

  • The winter (April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November) is cooler and wetter – so layer up and take a warmer coat or fleece and sturdy shoes or boots.
  • Summer (December, January, February and March) will be very hot on the coast but a little cooler in the hill country. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they really are uncomfortable in the heat.
  • Clever layering is the key to dressing for changeable weather.
  • We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

Other Things To Pack

  • Once you are outside of the capital and main resorts you really need to be sure you take everything you need including sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), insect/mosquito repellent, extra batteries, adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances (or pack a solar powered charger to cut down on plugs and cables).
  • As laundry facilities may be few and far between on your travels, pack a small supply of detergent for hand laundry too.
  • A microfiber travel towel is another great item to pack – these are designed specifically for trekking: they fold really small so you can accommodate a larger size and they dry really quickly too.
  • Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle.
  • A bag or soft-sided rucksack is a more practical option than hard cases when traveling around the country, and using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
  • Combine your bag with a fold away day sack that will carry your essentials on day trips.
  • Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage and is especially useful in busy cities or when trekking.
  • To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (220V).
  • Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Leather goods and semi-precious stones are popular buys.
  • Finally, it is worth noting that it's impolite to use a tooth pick in public, and using the ‘OK' sign is considered very rude.