It is Hot, Cold, and Rainy. The summer is really hot and sometimes over 100 degrees. The humidity makes the winter feel colder than the actual temperature.
When it rains, it rains really hard and doesn’t drain. You need good boots that are waterproof and will keep your feet warm in the cold and in the rain.
Both Elders and Sisters recommend Blundstone boots or Dr. Marten boots.
This is a walking mission. You will walk A TON! You will walk through several pairs of shoes. You will need at least 3 pairs of shoes.
Elders: recommended brands are Johnston & Murphy (XC4 Prentiss 2) and ECCO.
Sisters: Dansko and Dr. Martens are most recommended.
You will also want slides for your apartment and tennis shoes for exercise and Pdays.
You need all seasons of clothing. Light and short sleeves for summer and warm clothing for layering in the winter.
You will want a coat or a couple coats that provide different functionality. Get something that is insulated and waterproof and can work in rain and cold.
Pack a comfortable shoulder bag that is waterproof.
While you can get most things there, some areas have limited access to shopping, so don’t expect to wait to purchase necessities.
Amazon Chile doesn’t have everything, but there are lots of options.
Apartments do not have air conditioning or heat, so a rechargeable fan is so nice for the summer, and warm sleeping clothing for the winter.
You will also need a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Bring a basic medicine kit. You will want stuff for stomach issues, muscle pain, ointments, allergy meds, and cold medicines.
You do not need to bring temple clothing.
Bring an easy to carry water bottle instead of a bulky Stanley.
Sisters: pads are available everywhere. Tampons can be found in some places, but not everywhere and are very expensive. It is advised to bring your own supply.
A tip for funds is to bring a debit card that doesn’t have ATM fees (Schwab is one). You can go on the Metro System without buying a prepaid card that you have to add money to.
Protein powder is also a very nice thing to take with you.
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Most parents send their Elders with at least 1 suit (most countries in South America only wear suits to church and meetings) and around 8–10 golf pants. Families are sending more shirts because of heat and humidity — 12–14 is the average. Note for Sisters serving in Brazil: feminine hygiene products are expensive there and tampons are often considered taboo. Be prepared to send a good supply with your Sister Missionary.
Serve shirts have a ventilation panel in the side of the shirt making them noticeably more breathable. Missionaries serving in hot or humid places absolutely RAVE about this feature. The most popular shirt for hot-climate missions, for sure.