Now that you have decided that your next destination is going to be Nicaragua, you are probably very excited about the idea of traveling to an exotic country with plenty of exciting activities. We are going to give you some useful information that will help you organize the ideal list of things that you need to bring on your trip to Nicaragua.
Important things to consider.
The first thing to do before you start packing is simply to consider certain things about the country. This includes that you will be doing all kinds of outdoors activities and you will probably want to have a small backpack for some of those activities. Also, be sure to avoid drinking tap water in Nicaragua so you could bring your water bottle and refill it. Last but not least, don’t stress out about packing a toothbrush, shampoo, soap, floss or any of those products because they can be found easily and for very low prices.
A lot of people who arrive for alternative programs, collaborative camps or work exchange projects are quick to realize that many of the things they find in the US can be found in Nicaragua, but the problem is that quirky accommodation options don’t usually have those items available.
Essentials to consider packing
A daypack for a light load that you can bring with you anywhere without getting tired is very important. You should also bring any particular medication you need to take. There are all kinds of drugs sold in Nicaragua, but only a few hospitals and drug stores sell the top US medicine brands. You also need to consider bringing some bug and insect repellents with you. By the way, lightweight pants and a long sleeve t-shirt could also be a practical solution to avoid mosquitos at night.
Sunscreen is going to be a lifesaver because the sun is relentlessly hot during the day, you could get a sunburn in a matter of minutes, and it could be expensive and difficult to find. A first aid kit should also be on your list.
Aside from that, you don’t have to worry about packing for cold weather because even the winter feels like the summer in Nicaragua. You might feel like wearing a sweater at night because it does get cool enough, but never cold. Just bring a pair of comfortable pants (cargos are perfect), some socks and a sweater, and you will be set for the coldest Nicaraguan nights.
You should bring flip-flops as they will prove to be ideal for most beach settings. But for forest areas use just trekking shoes to avoid insect bites and to have a better grip. Packing a roll of toilet paper is also a good thing to do for every trip because you might find some areas that have bathrooms, but no paper.
A quick checklist of items to bring with you
- Passport
- Driver’s license (if driving)
- Credit card or ATM card
- Nicaraguan Map / downloaded on your cell phone
- At least $100 cash in $10 bills
- Spanish/English dictionary
- Camping knife and utility tool
- 2 bathing suits
- Waterproof sandals
- A hat
- Sunglasses
- A couple of towels
- Daypack
- First aid kit
- Lightweight raincoat (with hood)
- Bug Repellent
- After bug bite relief stick or equivalent
- Sunscreen
- Lip-balm
- Sewing kit
- Razor
- Hand Sanitizer
- Diarrhea medicine
- Pain relievers
- Motion sickness medicine
- Ear Plugs / Sleeping Mask
Traveling To Nicaragua Soon?
Bear in mind travel insurance! We like World Nomads for short and mid-term trips. Do something to shield yourself from possible injury and theft abroad. Here you have more info about why you should have a travel insurance.
Final Thoughts
Other things you should consider packing include a flashlight, some spare batteries for the flashlight, an umbrella, some plastic bags, hand sanitizer and some Ziploc bags to put your passport and documents inside them to avoid any accidents with water. With that said, Nicaragua is a very peaceful and friendly country that you are going to love exploring.