Carnival 2026 packing list: What to pack for Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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If it's your first time going to Carnaval in Brazil, you may be wondering what to bring with you - from what to wear to what to bring to keep your belongings safe, it's important to pack strategically.

Carnaval 2026 is set to take place from 13 - 21 February 2026, and while Rio de Janeiro is the most well-known Carnival destination, there are incredible celebrations happening all over Brazil. Cities like Salvador, Recife & Olinda, and Belo Horizonte host some of the country's most exciting blocos (street parties), blending music, dance, and culture into an unforgettable week (or two).

Going to Carnaval do Rio in 2026? > Book a Sambadrome tickets for Carnaval 2026 > Book accommodation for Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, ASAP! > Book a bus ticket to Rio de Janeiro

Brazil Carnival Packing List

Here's my ultimate packing checklist for Carnival 2026, to make sure you have everything you need to bring to the party - for during and after the party!

Costume tip: Don't forget to check the bloco schedule and plan your costume in line with the theme of the parties you are attending that day.

What to pack for street parties

• Fanny pack / bum bag - ideal for Carnaval and big parties, where you need to take a little more care with your security. I recommend anti-theft fanny pack that has lockable zippers and cannot be cut. If you're planning to use a more fun fanny-pack, you'll also want to get a hidden money belt to wear under your clothes for your phone and money.

• Wise Virtual Card - One of the great benefits of using Wise is that you can create virtual debit cards in the app and add them to your Google or Apple Pay, to use like a regular card. It's a great security hack, because if your card gets cloned, you can cancel it and won't have lost a physical card that is hard to replace.

• A good sunscreen - Make sure to wear a good sunscreen every day as the parties go all day and the Brazilian sun is very strong. I like this sport sunscreen for my body as it doesn't sweat off, and use a lighter sunscreen on my face.

• Reusable water bottle – Staying hydrated is key, especially if you’re drinking caipirinhas. This one is my pick, and it comes in a variety of colours and sizes. Also get a sling so you don't have to carry it.

• Portable phone charger – Although it's best to avoid using your phone and enjoy the party, a lightweight power bank will keep you connected all day, and ensures you can always check call an Uber to get home. This small credit-card sized charger won't weigh down your bum bag.

• Waterproof phone case – Just because it starts raining doesn't mean the party stops (get one).

• Cash (small bills) – While many street vendors do accept card, it is unfortunately common to have your card cloned - it's best to leave it at home and carry cash in small bills. Be mindful of where you keep your money to avoid pickpockets.

What to pack for your Carnival outfits

• Comfortable shoes – You’ll be on your feet for hours, walking and dancing in the streets. Go for a good pair of sneakers that you don't mind getting dirty, and can handle cobblestone streets and long days of celebration. Get something simple that will match all your outfits, like these.

• Light, breathable clothing – February in Brazil is hot and humid, so pack lightweight fabrics. Bring bright colors and anything that keeps you cool. Yes, a bikini with a tutu is a perfectly acceptable outfit - as long as it is a Brazilian bikini (no full-coverage bottoms). Tutus and tassel skirts are a common choice and make any outfit fun, as are. Throw one over a bikini and you have a low-effort costume!

• Costumes – Check the bloco schedule and plan your costume to match the theme of the parties you are attending that day. Group costumes always get a lot of attention, plan one in advance with your friends!

• Metallic outfits – Very popular at Carnival 2025, the shinier the better. Get some shiny shorts or a two piece set and you'll fit right in. Also in - outfits with sequins.

• Glitter – Glitter and anything sparkly is an absolute carnival essential. Tip: use eyelash glue to attach jewels to your face or body so they stay in place all day.

• Fun jewellery & accessories – Bright, bold pieces can complete your Carnival look. Nothing is too big or too colourful. Headbands, sunglasses, feathers, and anything multi-coloured. Fun earrings are definitely a carnival staple.

• Fishnet stockings - a very popular costume choice at Carnival 2025 was colourful fishnet stockings

• Sun protection - A fun hat that matches your outfit, and a hand-held fan are essential - trust me, Carnival is in the middle of summer, you'll be happy you have this.

• What not to pack - leave the Hawaiian shirts and flower leis at home, or you'll stand out as a gringo!

What to pack for after the party

• Earplugs - trust me, a good pair of earplugs will change your life. If you plan on sleeping at all during Carnaval, earplugs can be a lifesaver. The parties don’t stop. I prefer to use wax earplugs as they are more comfortable, and block out noise more effectively.

• Eye-mask - an eye mask will help you not to be woken up by the sun, or room mates turning on the lights if you're staying in a hostel dorm. This is also a great thing to have for the night bus.

• Electrolytes - Brazil is hot and you're going to sweat, a lot. Bring some good sports electrolytes to help stay hydrated, I like Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets.

• Basic first aid kit – Band-aids for blisters, painkillers for the morning after, and any personal medications you might need. Save yourself a trip to the pharmacy and bring a small travel-sized first aid kit that's got everything you might need.

Carnival 2026 inspiration & ideas

With these essentials in your bag, you'll be ready to fully enjoy Carnaval. Have an amazing time celebrating one of the world's greatest parties.

More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

• Find cheap bus & ferry tickets, or private transfers on Bookaway, or cheap flights on Kiwi. Or, rent a car and give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.

• Book your accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there's something for everyone

• You're not ready to travel until you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing to my friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. Get a free quote.

• Don't forget to read my packing check-list for Brazil

• Last but not least, discover 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil