Deciding what to take in your case or backpack when you go to Brazil for any length of time can be tricky. The climate varies enormously, depending on where you are going to be and what time of year you’re travelling.

The interior can be hot and dry, but then the Amazon jungle is hot and humid.  The coast tends to be hot and sticky year round, but the southern part of the country can get very cold, as can the mountainous regions during the winter months.

The rainy season is from January to April in the north, November to March in the Rio area and April to July in the north east.

It’s best to decide your route and then pack appropriate clothing.  If you adopt the layering approach, this will help you be prepared for a number of different climates.

Layering

Layering is when you wear a combination of garments rather than just a t-shirt and a jacket.  Base layers are usually figure-hugging and provide warmth while allowing moisture (sweat) to wick away from your skin.  If you’re going to spend any time in Brazil’s mountainous areas, then make sure you include thermal underwear and socks as part of your base layer kit.

The middle layer is an insulation layer, microfleece tops are a classic example.  You can have more than one garment as a middle layer, depending on how cold the weather conditions are.

Just as important is the shell layer which – as the name suggests – provides you with a protective shell from the elements. Waterproof and windproof jackets and trousers, like those sold by Craghoppers, will stop the rain and wind getting in, and still allow excess heat and moisture to escape from within.

Of course, when you’re on the beach you won’t need half this kit, but it’s all lightweight and packs down really small, and for the times when you do need it, you’ll be really glad you bothered to bring it.