Make sure that passport is valid for at least six months after your last planned date abroad. U.S. passport holders can enter the country as tourists without a visa for the Puentes programs. If you are entering the country on a passport from a country other than the U.S., please review the possible visa requirements. It is ultimately your responsibility to secure a visa for the program if you are required to do so.

Put your passport in your carry on bag - not in your checked bag.

Bring a debit card, a credit card, and U.S. dollars in US$100 bills (smaller denominations are often not accepted in exchange houses) so that you have options for payments while abroad.

Also notify your credit and debit card banks about the dates during which you will be abroad so that you will not be flagged for fraudulent activities. Ask your bank to waive the ATM withdrawal fee as an exception during the time that you are abroad. 

If you plan to use Western Union to access pesos while abroad, create the Western Union account while physically located in the U.S. before you travel.

You must bring your own laptop. Also of note is that electronics are very expensive in this region of the world, so it’s best to bring any cords, plugs, and accessories that you need for electronics.

It is a requirement to have a functioning cell phone (with both a calling plan and data plan) for the entire duration of your program. Set up one of the following two cell phone options for your local communication:

(1) Set up an international cell phone plan with your cell provider. Contact your cell phone provider to check cell service rates for your destination abroad, and then change your current cell phone plan to one that allows for temporary international service.

(2) Unlock your cell phone and use a local SIM card that you can purchase in-country at most "kioscos." Contact your cell phone provider before your departure and request that your phone be unlocked.

If you have an extra cell phone already on hand, you may want to bring it with you in case something happens to your phone while in country so that you have a ready, easy replacement.

It is a requirement to have a functioning cell phone (with both a calling plan and data plan) for the entire duration of your program. Contact your cell phone provider to set up an international cell phone plan

If you have an extra cell phone already on hand, you may want to bring it with you in case something happens to your phone while in country so that you have a ready, easy replacement.

Argentine and Uruguay electricity is 220 V, 50 Hz, which is different than the 110V in many countries. When using a computer, generally there is a voltage converter on the plug that protects your computer, but with electronics that are meant to get hot, like hairdryers and hair straighteners, you might need a 220 to 110 volt transformer.

The most common plug in Argentina is two flat blades in a V shape (type I). The most common plug in Uruguay is the plug with three points (type L). You can either bring adaptors or buy them upon arrival in any “ferretería” (hardware store).

Bring more than enough of any prescription medication for your entire stay abroad. Medicine cannot be sent via postal mail from your home country, and you cannot use an international prescription at a pharmacy abroad. We encourage students to continue their prescription medication and to take enough medication for the program, plus 14 days, just in case. We also recommend to take it in the original packaging. If you need prescription medication filled while abroad, you must see a local doctor.

The month of May in Bariloche can have varying temperatures (from 53°F to 32°F), rain, wind, and sunshine, so do bring different options for layers, including a rain jacket, scarf, and a warm jacket. Buildings do not have central heating systems so be sure to bring warm clothes for the workplace too. 

Comfortable and durable walking shoes are a must to get around Bariloche’s streets, many of which are unpaved and gravel or dirt.

Do not bring open-top tote bags to transport your laptop, but instead opt for a zippered bag or backpack for daily outings. You’ll find most people carry their belongings in a fanny pack or crossbody purse, rather than their pockets, when out in public.

Bring a reusable lunch bag to take your lunch to your workspace each weekday.  The office of your host organization may not have nearby options to purchase food or receive food delivery, so you should plan to take your lunch to work each day. 

If you prefer certain brands of toiletries, such as hair or skin-care products, we recommend bringing them from home. They might be hard to find here or more expensive. Keep in mind that tampons are sold without applicators here.

If you plan to join a gym, you will need an “apto físico.” This can be a simple, signed note (in English or Spanish) from a doctor stating that you are in good health and able to undertake physical exercise in a gym.

While not expected or mandatory, host families often appreciate small gifts. Something from your hometown, an item related to a hobby you like, or something meaningful to you. Sentimental consideration is more important than economic value.

No need to pack towels or sheets; your Puentes housing provides them.

We also recommend that you do not bring any expensive or irreplaceable jewelry or personal items so that you do not have to fret about them while adventuring.