Panama City, Panama: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Panama City, Panama? If you're planning to go to Panama City, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Panama City, Panama

Based on the climate and weather in Panama City, Panama, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Panama City, Panama

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Panama City, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Panama City, Panama by month

January

If you vacation in Panama City during January, you will probably find that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February for Panama City is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit Panama City during March, you might notice that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you visit Panama City during April, you will probably see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Panama City is really hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June for Panama City is really hot and very stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Panama City in July, you will notice that it is really hot and very stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Panama City can be sweltering and very stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September can be sweltering and very stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Panama City is really hot and very stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you are traveling to Panama City in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you vacation in Panama City during December, you will probably notice that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Panama has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Panama City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you see the Canal Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Panama City, Panama

Panama City, the capital city of Panama, is a bustling hub of historical and cultural significance, with a touch of contemporary flair. Located on the Pacific Coast of Central America, this city is a tourist hotspot, attracting visitors from around the world with its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque surroundings.

If you are planning a trip to Panama City, be sure to check out our list of top tourist attractions that are not to be missed.

1. Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is undoubtedly Panama's most famous and significant man-made wonder. The canal is an engineering marvel that spans over 80 kilometers and connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Touring the canal is a must-do activity for any visitor to Panama City.

2. Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo, also known as the Old Town or Casco Antiguo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Panama City. This charming neighborhood is rich in history and culture, with its colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and grand plazas.

3. Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo, also known as Old Panama, is a historical archaeological site that dates back to the 16th century. The site was once the original Panama City, which was destroyed by pirate attacks in the 17th century. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Panama Viejo and learn about its fascinating history.

4. Amador Causeway

The Amador Causeway is a 6-kilometer stretch of road built along a chain of four islands that connects Panama City to the Panama Canal. The causeway is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and taking in breathtaking views of the city skyline.

5. Miraflores Locks

The Miraflores Locks is another segment of the Panama Canal, located on the Pacific side of the canal. It's an excellent place to witness the canal's operation as ships are guided through the locks before continuing their journey.

6. National Park Soberania

National Park Soberania spans over 55,000 acres and is a vast, biodiverse forest. The park is home to over 500 species of birds, several species of monkeys, and a range of plants and other animal life.

7. Biomuseo

Biomuseo is a museum of biodiversity located in Panama City. The museum details the natural history of Panama and its impact on the world's ecosystems. The museum was designed by acclaimed architect Frank Gehry and is an impressive building.

8. Metropolitan Natural Park

This beautiful ecological reserve is a unique oasis of greenery in the bustling Panama City. It is an excellent spot for bird-watching and hiking and is easily accessible from the city center.

Conclusion

Panama City offers a unique combination of rich history, beautiful nature, and a modern metropolitan area. With its beautiful sights and countless opportunities for adventure, it should be on your list of must-visit cities. So, if you're planning a trip to Panama, be sure to visit these top tourist attractions to make your trip memorable.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Silver Spring, District of Columbia, United States of America, Five Blues Lake National Park, Belize, Marlinton, West Virginia, United States of America, Estremoz, Portugal, Seinäjoki, Finland, Qolora, South Africa, Heilbronn, Germany, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, United States of America, Gray, Maine, United States of America, Llanddona, Wales, United Kingdom, and East St.

Louis, Missouri, United States of America.