What to Pack for Luanda
(Practical Checklist)
Pack light, smart and context-ready. The list below covers documents, day-to-day clothing, tech, health, money and on-the-road comfort — with links to deeper guides.
Use the controls to open everything or only what you need.
- Passport valid 6+ months (and one blank page).
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (“Yellow Card”).
- Visa or visa-free proof for tourist visits — check eligibility.
- Travel insurance; printed & digital copies of bookings and key contacts.
- Addresses saved offline (accommodation, airport pickup point) in Portuguese and English.
It depends on where you’re going. In business districts and offices, people tend to dress polished and well put-together. In more informal neighbourhoods, keep it simple and low-key so you don’t draw unnecessary attention. There are no general dress laws (aside from specific venues), so wear what feels like you — just adjust slightly to the setting.
- Smart-casual staples in breathable fabrics; closed shoes or neat sandals.
- Neutral, non-flashy accessories in crowded areas.
- Light layer for strong A/C; sunhat/sunglasses for daytime.
- Unlocked phone + global eSIM or plan to buy a local SIM (Unitel/Africell/Movicel in malls).
- Power bank and USB cable for ride-hailing/navigation.
- Universal adaptor (Type C/F, 220V/50Hz) and multi-plug if you carry several devices.
- Offline maps and basic Portuguese phrases saved for taxis and addresses.
- If self-driving: phone holder and in-car charger.
- Personal medication and copies of prescriptions.
- Mosquito repellent (DEET/picaridin), sunscreen SPF 50, after-bite cream.
- Oral rehydration salts, basic first-aid, hand sanitiser and tissues.
- Bottled or properly filtered water only (also for brushing teeth).
- Two bank cards (primary + backup), plus access to cash for small purchases.
- Use ATMs at malls/hotels when possible; keep receipts for larger exchanges.
- Small wallet for day use; keep a separate reserve card/cash safely stored.
- Cross-body bag; keep valuables minimal and out of sight.
- Small torch/headlamp for low-light areas; reflective band or light for night walks.
- Copy of your ID and key numbers saved on your phone and in the cloud.
- Lightweight tote/dry bag for Ilha/beach days.
- Earplugs & eye mask for flights and naps.
- Simple gifts from home for hosts or new colleagues.
General guidance only — always verify requirements with your airline and official sources. Availability may change.