What to Pack for Nicaragua

August 26, 2016 | Central America, Packing Guides, Style by Melissa Hogan | Nicaragua • packing | No Comments

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What to Pack for Nicaragua | SuitcaseandHeels.co

1. Joe Fresh Racerback Tank / 2. P.A.R.O.S.H. high-low hem tank top / 3. J. Crew linen V-neck t-shirt / 4. Adidas originals Trefoil tank / 5. Ivy park racer tank / 6. J.Crew Chino Short / 7. Sweaty Betty Workout Short / 8. One Teaspoon ‘Chargers’ Distressed Denim Cutoff Shorts / 9. Athleta linen Jogger Pant / 10. Maxi Dress / 11. Tunic Swim Cover Up / 12. Romper / 13. adidas Hiking Shoe / 14. Merrell Metallic Sandal / 15. Havaianas Metallic Flip Flop / 16. L-Space Lizzie Bikini / 17. kate spade One Piece Swimsuit / 18. Pacsafe Citysafe Anti Theft Handbag / 19. BP. Stripe Canvas Tote / 20. Echo Paisley Bandana / 21. Le Specs Half Moon Magic Sunglasses / 22. Amici Accessories Ball Cap

I spent two weeks travelling around Nicaragua this spring and, though I went against my blog title and took a backpack and flats, I still felt like I overpacked a bit. I still think it’s not a sin to check a bag, but I’ve been trying lately to get a bit more efficient with what I bring on trips. No more bringing 10 outfits for a 7 day trip…even if they’re all cute. The struggle is real, my friends.

Since I’m also a data nerd who loves lists I thought I’d take a second crack at what I’d pack for a trip to Nicaragua. Using some basic rules I was able to put together a capsule wardrobe that should cover you for all events: volcano hikes to surfing to chilling and steak dinners.

The Rules

5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 dresses / 3 shoes, 2 bathing suits / 2 bags, 1 hat/bandana/sunglasses
All tops must go with all bottoms
Breathable and durable fabrics
All shoes must also go with any non-dress outfits

Key Items

I chose a bandana instead of a scarf because you’re going to need it if you go volcano boarding. And you should really be going volcano boarding. It can also be used to cover up post-surfing or second day hair. I chose a ball cap instead of a more trendy straw hat since you want something that can withstand hikes and being stuffed in a backpack.

There are no high heels on this list. Nicaragua is a casual country, even in the cities. A jersey dress and sandals will be nice enough for even a steak dinner in Leon. San Juan del Sur is the land of the flip flops and cutoffs and Laguna de Apoyo only calls for a swimsuit and cover-up.

For a day bag, I chose a Pacsafe cross body because of its extra anti-theft features. While I felt safe in Nicaragua, pick pockets and thieves are always a possibility.

If you want to pack some jewelry, I’d recommend some delicate, understated gold-toned pieces: small hoop earrings, long pendant necklace, a few stacked thin bangles. Avoid anything too flashy or expensive looking.

Lastly, catcalling can be an issue for women travelling in Nicaragua so I made sure to include a maxi dress and a pair of linen joggers and at least one top with a higher neckline in case you feel the need to cover up. The romper and maxi dress can also do double duty as bottoms if you layer a top over them.