Got a trip planned to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil? Rio de Janeiro can be fun to visit any time of year, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is hot and very humid year-round, with temperatures averaging around 82°F (that's 28°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?
To stay cool in the heat, it's important to wear light and airy clothing. Cotton, linen, and technical fabrics are all good choices. And don't forget to pack a pair of sandals or lightweight sneakers. With a comfortable pair of shoes, you'll be able to explore everything Rio de Janeiro has to offer without foot fatigue.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Rio de Janeiro—whether you're visiting Christ the Redeemer, strolling along Copacabana Beach, exploring Sugarloaf Mountain, or visiting the Rio de Janeiro Zoo.
Editor's note: Rio de Janeiro is in the tropics, which means seasons like summer, winter, spring, and fall don't apply. Most tropical destinations do have a wet and a dry season, but temperatures are typically warm year round.
What should women wear in Rio de Janeiro?
Rio de Janeiro is generally hot, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: swimsuit, comfortable flats or loafers, long-sleeved shirts, flip flops, and sunglasses. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Rio de Janeiro has to offer.
Swimsuit
Whether you're relaxing on the beach, lounging by the pool, or even planning on spending a day at a water park, there are plenty of reasons to pack a swimsuit for Rio de Janeiro. Not only are they essential for staying cool in the heat, but they also come in handy for everything from water sports to simply relaxing in the shade. With so many different styles and designs to choose from, you could even pack more than one.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Comfortable flats or loafers
Packing the right shoes for Rio de Janeiro 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.
Here are a few of my top picks:
Long-sleeved shirts
Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Rio de Janeiro, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.
Any of these should work:
Flip flops
It's no secret that flip flops are one of the most popular types of footwear for visiting Rio de Janeiro. They're easy to slip on and off, they're usually pretty cheap, and they go with just about everything. But flip flops are also surprisingly versatile—they can be dressed up or down, and they're perfect for everything from a day at the beach to a night out on the town.
These options are both stylish and comfy:
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement. Not only do they protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun, but they also help to reduce glare and improve visibility. When choosing sunglasses, it's important to pick a pair that is both stylish and functional. Look for lenses that are marked UV 400, which means they provide nearly 100% UV protection. They should also be large enough to cover your entire field of vision—and make sure that the frames are comfortable to wear. Also, be sure to pack a case to keep your sunglasses safe while you're on the go. With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure that your Rio de Janeiro trip is both enjoyable and sun-safe.
Here are a few of my top picks:
What should men wear in Rio de Janeiro?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: upf 50+ sun protective clothing, loafers or dress shoes, tank tops, shirts or tunics, and stylish hat. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Rio de Janeiro in comfort and style.
UPF 50+ sun protective clothing
If there was just one thing I could pack for a sunny trip away, it would be UPF 50+ sun protective clothing. Seriously, this stuff is amazing. It's essentially clothing specially designed to protect your skin from the sun, which is important because UV rays can be incredibly damaging to your skin—especially if you're going to be spending a lot of time outdoors. UPF 50+ clothing helps to block out the sun's rays, just by you wearing it! Look for items that are loose-fitting and made from breathable fabrics, and you'll also want to make sure that the clothes you choose have a light color, as this will help to keep you cool too. With UPF 50+ sun protective clothing, you can enjoy your time in the sun without having to worry about damaging your skin.
These options are both stylish and comfy:
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.
Why not grab yourself something new before you go:
Tank tops
Tank tops are just such a versatile item of clothing. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for hot weather. When packing tank tops for a trip to Rio de Janeiro, it's important to choose ones that are comfortable and breathable. You'll also want to make sure they're easy to care for, so you can wash them easily while on the road. Plus it's a good idea to pack a few different colors and styles, so you have options to suit any occasion. With a few key tank tops in your suitcase, you'll be prepared for anything on your Rio de Janeiro adventure.
Here are a few of my top picks:
Shirts or tunics
Shirts or tunics are one of the most versatile and easy-to-wear items you can pack for Rio de Janeiro. They can be dressed up or down, and they work well in a variety of settings, from the beach to the city. When choosing shirts or tunics for your trip, look for ones that are made from lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton. These fabrics will help keep you cool and comfortable in the warm weather.
Any of these should work:
Stylish hat
A good hat can be the difference between a great Rio de Janeiro 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 (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Rio de Janeiro, just know there's a hat for the occasion.
Any of these should work:
FAQs
When is the best time to go to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil?
The best time to go to Rio de Janeiro is during the country's dry season, which runs from roughly April to September. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for exploring everything Rio de Janeiro has to offer. That said, you can often avoid the crowds and find a great bargain on hotels and airfares outside of the peak season—the only real downside is getting caught in the occasional monsoon downpour.
How do people typically dress in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil?
The typical dress in Rio de Janeiro is casual and comfortable. You will see light, airy clothing everywhere thanks to the heat and humidity. Many people wear shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. Local fashions often include brightly colored clothing and sometimes also beachwear.
What should you NOT wear in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil?
There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Rio de Janeiro. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Rio de Janeiro will help make your 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 Rio de Janeiro has to offer!