Got a Winter Trip Planned to Chile? Here’s What to Wear

Got a winter trip planned to Chile? Chile can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 59°F (that's 15°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Chile, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Chile in winter—whether you're visiting Easter Island, hiking in Torres del Paine National Park, taking a dip in the geothermal waters of the El Tatio Geysers, or sampling Chilean wines in the Colchagua Valley.

🔗 What should women wear in Chile in winter?

Chile in winter is generally cool, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: comfortable flats or loafers, stylish hat, denim jacket, sweaters, and jeans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Chile has to offer.

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Chile can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Chile trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (this is a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Chile, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Chile. They are stylish and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Denim jackets are also very versatile. They can be worn over a dress for a night out or with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual day exploring. Best of all, denim jackets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. When choosing a denim jacket for Chile, look for one that is comfortable and flattering. A classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn year after year. For a more unique look, try a distressed denim jacket or one with embellishments such as embroidery or beads.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Chile. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Chile, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 What should men wear in Chile in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: button-down shirts or polos, loafers or dress shoes, light jacket, stylish hat, and jeans or khakis. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Chile in comfort and style.

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Chile, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Chile trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (this is a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Chile, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

I found these which would all work great:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Chile will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Chile has to offer!