Packing Essentials

Olá, Amigos!

We’re officially in the final countdown to Brazil, and this newsletter is all about one of the most common questions guests have: what should I pack? Brazil’s climate and culture are wonderful, but quite different from the U.S. The right clothing and essentials will make the trip smoother and help everyone feel comfortable and confident.

Below is a guide that covers daily wear, wedding events, weather expectations, and a few must-bring items that travelers often forget.

What to Wear in Brazil

A quick cultural note: in the U.S., athletic clothing—running shorts, leggings, sweatshirts, gym sneakers—is common in everyday life. In Brazil, especially in Curitiba, this isn’t typical unless you’re actually exercising. You’ll still see casual, relaxed outfits, but they tend to look more styled and polished.

This isn’t a requirement to dress up or change your style, but simply helpful context while you’re packing and planning outfits.

Rio de Janeiro — Relaxed, Beach-Casual

Many of you are planning to visit Rio before traveling to Curitiba, and the clothing vibe there is exactly what you’d expect in a major beach city. Lightweight, airy clothing is common, and daytime outfits are extremely casual. Shorts, sundresses, flip-flops, and swimsuits with cover-ups are standard. During the evening, people are still casual, but generally a bit more polished. Think sundresses or jumpsuits for women, and linen pants or nice shorts with a polo or button-down for men.

Rio is also a very active city. In the mornings you’ll see people running or biking along the waterfront, and the beach culture is central to daily life. Since it is nearly summer in Brazil, expect heat, sun, and humidity.

What fits in well:

• Shorts, sundresses, skirts, lightweight tops

• Flip-flops or sandals

• Swimsuits with cover-ups when walking around beach areas

• Linen shirts or polos for dinners out

Pro Tip:

Brazil, especially Rio, is vibrant and fun, but like any large city, basic street-smarts go a long way.

• Do not wear or display high-end watches, necklaces, or jewelry while exploring Rio.

• Avoid walking with your phone in your hand on sidewalks or near the street. Petty theft is common, and motorcycles have been known to grab phones from people chatting or taking videos.

• Keep bags zipped and in front of you in crowded areas.

• Use Uber at night instead of walking long distances.

Hundreds of millions of people live and vacation safely in Brazil every year. Just be aware of your surroundings and follow the same precautions you’d use in any major global city.

Curitiba: Casual-Chic with a European Influence

Curitiba has a noticeably different cultural rhythm than Rio. While still relaxed, there is a slightly more polished, European-influenced style, especially when going out for dinner or drinks. Jeans or pants, nice tops, casual dresses, stylish sneakers or flats, and light sweaters are common. Athletic wear or gym outfits in public are generally not worn unless someone is coming from exercise.

Curitiba is famous for unpredictable weather. Sunshine and overcast skies can flip back and forth quickly, and it’s common to get at least one rain shower during a single day. Pack a light jacket or sweater, comfortable closed-toe shoes for cooler evenings, and a small umbrella or rain jacket. Most men tend to wear jeans or pants with sneakers, simply because the temperatures are cooler than Rio.

What people typically wear:

• Jeans or pants, sweaters, blouses, casual dresses

• Stylish sneakers or flats, not running shoes

• Light jacket or sweater at night

This doesn’t mean dressing formally, just clean, neat, and a bit more refined than beach attire.

For those of you that like the finer things, high end jewelry and designer clothing is commonly found in Curitiba. Continue to utilize street smarts, but there are no concerns about wearing high fashion items to wedding events.

What to Wear to the Wedding Events

Welcome Party – All White

The Welcome Party is the official kickoff the night before the wedding and is meant to help everyone meet each other, unwind after traveling, and get comfortable before the big day.

The dress code is simple: white. In Brazil, white symbolizes peace, renewal, and good luck, and is traditionally worn for celebrations like New Year’s.

For women, this can be a sundress, jumpsuit, or anything light and beach-chic.
For men, light or white pants, shorts, linen shirts, polos, or a relaxed button-down all work well.

This isn’t a formal event, just elevated casual with a beach-inspired feel. Final details such as address, timing, and transportation will be shared in the WhatsApp group.

Wedding Day – Formal and Elegant

Brazilian weddings are formal affairs, and guests traditionally dress accordingly. Attire expectations are as follows:

• Men: A dark, full suit with tie or bow tie. This can include a three-piece suit or something with personal style, but avoid tuxedos, summer suits, tan suits, and linen.

• Women: Full-length, evening-style gowns—similar to a black-tie gala. Hair and makeup services for guests are common in Brazil, and anyone wanting professional services can coordinate directly with Manuella.

• Shoes: Going barefoot, even on the dance floor, is considered disrespectful at Brazilian weddings. Once the reception begins, flip-flops will be provided so guests can dance comfortably.

The ceremony and reception take place at the same venue, so there is no need to worry about travel between locations.

Travel Essentials

Even experienced travelers forget small but important items. Along with comfortable clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a day-bag for walking around, there are a few practical items worth bringing. Also, make sure your travel documents (e.g., valid passport and printed tourist visa) are easily accessible, ensuring your travel into the country is smooth and efficient.

Power Outlets & Converters

Brazil uses Type N outlets, and many locations run on 110 or 220 volts. Most U.S. phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage and work without issue, but certain hair appliances are not. If you plan to bring curling irons, straighteners, or similar tools, check voltage before plugging them in. A simple Type N adapter or small power strip makes charging multiple devices easier.

Money & Tipping

There’s no need to bring large amounts of cash. Credit cards and Apple Pay are widely accepted at restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels. If you plan to bring a card, choose one with no international transaction fees. Cash is only helpful for small purchases or emergencies, not everyday spending. If you have questions about your credit card, contact Kevin asap or use our favorite google hack for travel questions by typing “topic in question THE POINTS GUY”. This will direct you to a related article to one of the world’s must trusted travel journals.

To tip or not to tip? While tipping does exist in Brazil, many restaurants do not expect this, albeit high end dining experiences. If you feel inclined to tip for exceptional service, the standard is 10% of your total bill. Unlike the U.S., tips are not common nor expected, regardless of industry.

Toiletries & Liquids

When flying into Brazil (especially via GRU) you’ll want to treat liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols the same way you would for major international airports. The Brazilian aviation authority Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC) has set clear guidelines: each container must hold 100 mL or less, all containers must fit into a single transparent plastic bag (max capacity 1 L) and you must present that bag separately at security. So when you’re packing, transfer your shampoo, lotion, sunscreen, deodorant, etc., into travel-size bottles (100 mL max) if they aren’t already. Place them in a resealable clear ziplock bag and keep that bag easily accessible at your carry-on checkpoint. If you’re flying through GRU, double-check that your items comply, as even partially full bottles over 100 mL cannot be carried on.

General Packing

• Rio will be warm and humid — pack beachwear and breathable clothing.

• Curitiba will be cooler, possibly rainy — bring layers and one reliable jacket.

• Bring at least one outfit suitable for a nice dinner.

• Have copies of important documents (passport photo page, confirmations, insurance), storing them digitally is smart and common.

There’s no need to overpack. Comfortable, simple clothing works perfectly and you’ll have flip-flops provided for dancing at the wedding.

TL;DR

• White outfits for the Welcome Party

• Dark formal suit for men, long gowns for women at the wedding

• Type N outlet adapter recommended

• Credit card with no foreign transaction fees

• Layers for Curitiba, beachwear for Rio

• Passport with 6 months validity

A Few Quick Details:

• Wedding Date: November 20, 2025 – Mark your calendars!

• Location: Castelo do Batel, Curitiba PR - We can’t wait to share the beauty of Brazil with you.

• Wedding Website: Visit our website for general wedding day information and RSVP

As always, let us know if you have any questions. We’re happy to help with travel recommendations, clarifying wedding day details, and pointing you in the right direction (especially food options) as we get closer to the big day.

Até logo,
M&K