Volunteering in the rainforest is one of those experiences that sounds dreamy in theory, until you realise, you'll be living somewhere between a sauna and a jungle obstacle course. While you'll be surrounded by spectacular wildlife, you're also likely to be surrounded by insects who would also like to volunteer, mainly their time, in your personal space.
Jump to:
- Rainforest Volunteer Packing List
- Best Clothing for Rainforest Volunteering
- Waterproof Boots
- Insect Repellent
- Day Backpack
- First Aid and Toiletries
- Practical Extras for Wildlife and Conservation Work
- Electronics and Keeping Them Dry
- Don’t Forget: A Rainforest Volunteer Mindset
- Don't Forget: A Rainforest Volunteer Mindset
- Pack Smart, Travel Light, Embrace the Mud
Whether you're heading off to support conservation work, help at a wildlife sanctuary, or get gloriously muddy planting trees, packing the right things will make your trip far more comfortable. So, here it is: the ultimate rainforest volunteer packing list, with everything you actually need, and nothing you'll regret hauling in the humidity.
Rainforest Volunteer Packing List
Packing right for your trip is the difference between embracing rainforest life with confidence and relying on the daily downpour to mask your tears.
The key is choosing lightweight, breathable, protective items that can handle mud, rain, and humidity.
Best Clothing for Rainforest Volunteering
Rule #1: Cover Up
When volunteering in the rainforest, long sleeves aren't a fashion choice. They're a survival strategy.
Long, lightweight layers protect you from:
- Scratches from dense vegetation
- Mosquito bites
- Sun exposure
- The general chaos of the jungle
Recommended clothing to pack:
- Long-sleeved breathable tops
- Lightweight trekking trousers
- Light rain jacket
- T-shirts for downtime
- Something comfy for evenings
- Sleepwear suitable for humid climates
Top tip: Avoid cotton. Cotton in the rainforest is basically a wet sponge with emotional baggage. Quick-dry fabrics are best.
Waterproof Boots
Your New Best Friends
A good pair of boots is one of the most important items on any rainforest packing list.
Rainforest trails can be wet, muddy, slippery, and occasionally feel like nature's version of a prank.
Footwear essentials:
- Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Lightweight sandals or flip-flops for showers
- Spare socks (you'll go through them quickly)
Pro tip: Break in your boots before you arrive unless you enjoy blisters as travel companions.
IMPORTANT: Some of our projects set in the rainforest (especially in sanctuary settings) require wellies; this will be outlined in your pre-departure documents!
Insect Repellent
Jungle Currency
Mosquitoes and insects are part of rainforest life, so insect protection is non-negotiable.
Jungle insect essentials:
- Strong insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
- Anti-itch cream or antihistamines if you are particularly prone to bites
- Optional insect-repellent clothing spray
Most volunteer accommodations provide mosquito nets if they are needed, but check your project details in advance.
Day Backpack
A small day pack is ideal for carrying what you'll need during daily tasks around the project site. You don't want to lug your entire suitcase around with you; just something to hold the essentials.
Ideal day bag contents:
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho
- Hat or cap
- Camera and/or phone
Choose a comfortable, water-resistant backpack if possible.
First Aid and Toiletries
Be Your Own Hero
Our rainforest volunteer programmes will have first aid supplies, but you may want to bring your own basics too.
Recommended personal medical kit:
- Plasters and blister pads
- Antiseptic cream
- Any prescription medication
- Hand sanitiser or wet wipes
- Sunscreen (yes, even under the canopy)
Practical Extras for Wildlife and Conservation Work
Depending on your volunteer role, you may help with enclosure cleaning, food preparation, planting, or maintenance tasks.
Useful volunteer extras:
- Work gloves
- Head torch
- Travel towel
- Laundry bag
- Small notebook or field journal
These small items can make daily life much easier in remote rainforest locations.
Electronics and Keeping Them Dry
Rainforest air is damp 24/7, and your phone and camera know this. Panic is optional. Phones are pretty robust nowadays, butyou can take a few extra steps to keep your electronics dry.
Electronics packing tips:
- Waterproof phone case - these are great to take out on boat trips
- Dry bags
- Power bank
- Universal travel adapter
Moisture is the jungle's love language. Don't let it flirt with your electronics.
Don't Forget: A Rainforest Volunteer Mindset
No packing list is complete without the right attitude.
Rainforest volunteering is:
- Wild
- Humbling
- Unpredictable
- Completely unforgettable
It's an adventure, and part of the magic is embracing the unpredictable.
Pack Smart, Travel Light, Embrace the Mud
Packing for a rainforest volunteer trip is all about comfort, practicality, and accepting that nothing will ever fully dry until you're home.
But you'll be too busy doing meaningful conservation work, meeting incredible people, and experiencing one of the most extraordinary places on Earth to care. Mud washes off. Memories don't.
Packing is just the first step. The real magic begins when you arrive, stepping into the rainforest, whether that's in Borneo or Costa Rica, Uganda or Peru, meeting the animals, and becoming part of conservation work that truly matters is an experience like no other.
