Surviving Rio Carnival: A Packing Guide
Rio Carnival is often described as the greatest party on Earth. Millions of people take to the streets for blocos (street parties) that start at 7 AM and last until the sun comes up the next day. It is a marathon of dancing, singing, and drinking in the intense Brazilian summer heat. To survive—and enjoy—Carnival, you need to pack smart.
1. The Essential Fanny Pack (Pochete)
During Carnival, your pockets are not safe. The crowds are shoulder-to-shoulder, making it a paradise for pickpockets. A pochete (fanny pack/bum bag) worn tightly across your chest is absolutely mandatory.
Inside your pochete, you only need the essentials:
- A photocopy of your ID (leave your passport at the hotel!)
- A small amount of cash in low denominations (for buying beers from street vendors)
- One credit/debit card (keep your main cards in your room safe)
- Your phone (ideally on a lanyard attached to the inside of the bag)
2. Dress for the Heat (and the Sweat)
February in Rio is sweltering. You will be sweating constantly. Forget about heavy fabrics or complex outfits. The Carnival dress code is essentially: wear as little as you feel comfortable in, and make it colorful. Swimsuits, bikini tops, light board shorts, and sheer cover-ups are standard bloco attire. If you wear a costume, ensure it is made of extremely light, breathable material.
3. Hydration and Sun Protection
Drinking caipirinhas in the sun all day is a recipe for disaster if you aren’t drinking water. Buy bottled water from the street vendors constantly. Before you leave your hotel, apply a thick layer of high-SPF, water-resistant sunscreen, and bring a small travel-sized bottle to reapply. A fun hat is also a great way to incorporate sun protection into your costume.
