Packing for a long trip, particularly to a place that you have never been, is never an easy process. What you pack will depend on when you are coming to town. Hopefully this guide on weather in Buenos Aires will help you decide what to bring!

Overall, Buenos Aires has four distinct seasons with very hot summers and relatively mild winters. Due to its high levels of humidity, sometimes the city can feel hotter than its recorded temperatures would lead you to believe. Weather in Buenos Aires can be a bit sporadic, raining heavily for an afternoon or for several days followed by weeks of nothing but sun. It is a good idea to pack a rain jacket and, if you can fit them into your suitcase, some rain boots and an umbrella.

SPRING: September – November

Spring time in Buenos Aires is the best time to be in the city. Temperatures are warm but comfortable with ranging from a high of 22C/72F and a low of 14C/57F. There is a lot of sun, but it also does rain quite a bit during this time of the year. The jacarandá trees are in full bloom, making purple arches along Buenos Aires streets. The locals are happy that winter has come to an end and everyone spends their free time outside to celebrate. With warm days and cool nights, you can enjoy the city 24 hours a day.

What to pack: Light clothing, light jacket, sweater/sweatshirt, raincoat, close-toed shoes. 

SUMMER: December – February

Summer time in Buenos can be very hot and humid. The summer peaks in January and has average temperatures with a high of 28C/83F and a low of 17C/63F. The nice thing about summertime is that a large number of people vacation at the beach, making the city much less crowded. The city puts on lots of events during the summer and is a great time to see outdoor music.

What to pack: Very light clothing, sandals, umbrella, a sweatshirt and long-sleeve shirt just in case.

FALL: March – May

Fall is a great time to visit the city. Like spring, the temperatures are temperate and comfortable with a high of 22C/72F and a low of 14C/57F. The days are warm and the nights are cool. This is also fútbol season, and a great time to come to town if you are a fan.

What to pack: Light clothing, light jacket, sweater, raincoat, close-toed shoes.

WINTER: June – August

Winter is a popular time to visit Buenos Aires, especially because it falls during the summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Winters are relatively mild, but come prepared for temperatures averaging around a high of 15C/59F and a low of 7C/47F. Cold days do happen and you will be much more comfortable if you are dressed warmly- especially if you are coming from a warm climate. It is important to note that the cold feels even colder due to the humidity. 

What to pack: Warm jacket, sweatshirt, sweaters, some light clothing, closed toed shoes/boots, gloves and a hat just in case, an umbrella. 

Additional things to consider: 

• Of course, your experience of the weather here in Buenos Aires will depend very much on where you are coming from. If you are used to a warmer climate it is a good idea to pack a few extra warm things during winter here just in case.
• If you are planning to travel to other parts of Argentina or South America, it is important to consider the weather in the places that you will be visiting. Within Argentina, it is generally warmer as you move North and colder as you move South.
• If you are travelling on a budget, buying new clothes can be a bit expensive in Buenos Aires so it is good to bring what you can. There are, of course, always great places to get cheap second hand clothes if you find there is something that you need.

Additional things you may want to pack:

• As much cash as you can safely carry-see our blog post on money in Argentina for more info.
• Debit & credit cards. Although Buenos Aires is a largely cash-driven city, you should bring your debit and credit cards from home. Using these cards internationally, and specifically in Argentina can imply additional fees so this would be a great time to look into travel credit cards. Check out this article for more information about picking a great travel credit card. When buying things with cards in Argentina, most places will also ask for photo ID. So do bring your ID from home so you don’t need to bring your passport everywhere with you.
• A plug adapter or converter if you plan to use larger appliances. For more info click here.
• Photos to put in your room when you get homesick. They are lightweight and help to make you feel at home.

Heather Houde

Edited by: Rachel Orga

Edited by: Samantha Tigner