Sometimes the biggest challenge in moving or traveling to a foreign country is deciding what clothes are worth stuffing in your over-sized backpack. Buenos Aires is tricky to pack for. Unlike other Latin American countries where the weather is balmy and tropical all year long Buenos Aires has 4 very different seasons; Cold, Colder, Warm and Hot. The cold in Buenos Aires doesn't involve snow but somehow the humid coldness gets under your skin and settles into your bones and the hot is sweltering.
The all year daytime style in Argentine is pretty casual. For both travelers and
students in Buenos Aires, think jeans and sweaters during the day for the cold months and shorts and tank tops during the hot ones. Also, don't forget that seasons in Argentina are opposite to the seasons in the Northern Hemisphere for example our winter is their summer. However, for all seasons prepare for rain. Rain storms will rumble throughout the city for a few hours and disappear before dinner or pound down all day. Make sure to check the weather before you start your day to see what you have in store.
Summer (December 21st-March 21st): Daytime attire is pretty simple jeans, t-shirts, tank tops and comfortable walking shoes. It's an urban city and people love trendy gladiator sandals or Havianas during the day. At night women don't get too glammed up to hit the bars and clubs but often throw a colorful flower in their hair, a stylish dress and some opt for heels but don't feel obligated because chances are you might tower over a large percentage of the population. The nights are pretty humid so a safe bet is to stay in dresses and skirts. On weekends people flock to their beach houses in Mar del Plata or nearby Uruguay to soak in the sun, so pack your swimsuit, but word to the wise, prepare to sweat.
Fall (March 21st-June 21st): Fall is warm during the days but the temperatures drop sporadically and get chilly at night. We suggest keeping a sweater on you at all times in case of weather changes. Bring comfortable clothes during the day and a light sweater for the night. Dust off your Levi jeans and curl up in your favorite zip up when it gets chilly.
Winter (June 21st-September 21st): Winter is very cold and very wet. This is the time to rock an authentic Argentine leather jacket, some new boots or the super popular Converse sneakers. We suggest lots of layers if you don't want to pack a large coat. Or opt for a basic peacoat to pair with your thick scarf, jeans, heavy socks and boots that are ideal for this chilly season.
Spring (September 21st-December 21st): Spring is the light at the end of the tunnel after winter. The birds are chirping, flowers blooming and the sun is shining but it can still get cold, refreshing but cold. Long sleeve shirts, pants and light jackets are highly recommended (layers work best).
Spring in Buenos Aires is still rather chilly and it's still appropriate to sport a leather jacket and fashionable scarf. People start moving outdoors again so pack running clothes to run around the beautiful Rosedal garden where the roses should be in full bloom.
Whether you are
studying abroad in Buenos Aires or traveling to Argentina we hope this information helps! For more great info on visiting Buenos Aires check out
BA Cultural Concierge.
