What to Pack for Your Trip to Playa Guanico, Panama: Essentials & Must-Have Items

I’ve been traveling around South America for years before finally settling down in Playa Guanico and creating La Chantin. Through all those bus rides, surf trips, and long nights under the stars, I’ve learned exactly what you need to make life on the road easier, especially when heading to a remote beach town like Guanico. Whether you’re coming to surf, work remotely, or just disconnect, these are my must-haves—things I never travel without. So What to pack for Playa Guanico ?

My 5 Must-Have Travel Essentials : What to pack for Playa Guanico ?

1. Long Sleeves & Pants for Bug Protection (Trust Me, You’ll Thank Me!)

Listen, I love the tropics, but let’s be real—mosquitoes and tiny biting bugs called "chitras" can ruin a perfect sunset. My go-to? Light, breathable long-sleeve shirts and pants. They keep the bugs off without making me feel like I’m melting. Bonus: they also protect you from the strong sun.

2. Reusable Water Bottle with Filter (Avoid My Peru Nightmare!)

I’ll never forget that one night in Peru when I drank tap water and spent the next 24 hours regretting everything. Since then, I never travel without a filtered water bottle. It saves money, reduces plastic waste, and most importantly—keeps you safe from sketchy water sources.

• Recommended: LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle – filters bacteria and parasites so you can drink safely anywhere.

3. Portable Hammock (Nap Anywhere, Anytime)

One of my favorite things about Playa Guanico? The endless palm trees, perfect for setting up a hammock. Whether you’re chilling in La Chantin’s garden or finding your own private beach spot, having a portable hammock is a game-changer.

• Recommended: WiseOwl Hammock – lightweight, packs down small, and super easy to set up

4. Noise-Canceling Headphones (Long Bus Rides, Focused Work Sessions & Beach Vibes)

If you’re taking the long ride to Guanico, good headphones will save your sanity. Whether drowning out bus noise, getting in the zone for work, or just vibing to music while watching the waves, this is a must-have.

• Recommended: JBL Tune 720BT – great sound, comfortable fit, and perfect for travel.

5. Solar Power Bank (Because Electricity Can Be Unpredictable)

There’s nothing worse than your phone dying in the middle of nowhere. I learned this the hard way while traveling through remote areas. A solar power bank keeps you charged up, even when the power goes out (which happens sometimes in Guanico).

• Recommended: BLAVOR Solar Power Bank – charges via USB or solar, perfect for backup power.

Bonus Items for Surfers & Adventure Lovers

If you’re coming to Playa Guanico for surfing or outdoor fun, these extras will make your trip even better :

• Poncho Towel – Changing out of your wet bikini or boardshorts in public is awkward. A poncho towel is thesolution.

  • Recommended: Ho Stevie! Changing Poncho

    
    

• Headlamp – Nights can be super dark, especially if you’re staying in a remote spot. A headlamp = hands-free light for late-night adventures.

  • Recommended: Black Diamond Spot 350

    
    

• Surf Hat – The sun is brutal here. A surf hat keeps your face protected while catching waves.

  • Recommended: Dakine Surf Hat

Playa Guanico Travel Tips (From Someone Who Calls It Home)

• Bring Cash – There’s no ATM here, so withdraw in Tonosí before arriving.

• Power Outages Happen – That’s why a solar power bank is key.

• Disconnect & Enjoy – The best part about Guanico is its raw beauty. Take time to soak it in.

Packing smart makes all the difference. Whether you’re coming to surf, work remotely, or just embrace the beach life, these essentials will set you up for a smooth trip. Playa Guanico is paradise—just come prepared, and you’ll love every minute of it.

Safe travels & see you at La Chantin!