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Wet and Wild: Keeping yourself and your belongings dry in Panama
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Here are a few tips to help keep you and your equipment dry as you explore Panama. Most are quite simple and very cost effective.
Dark colors, quick-drying, light-weight clothes
Bring clothes that can dry quickly. You are likely to get rained on or perspire as you explore and washing machines may not be available. Dark colors and light-weight clothing will dry the quickest. If you need clean clothes and plan to stay in an area for a day or so, inquire about a Laundromat or if a local person could wash your clothes for you. Your wash usually will be returned clean, dry, and folded for a very reasonable price.
Rubber boots
Wearing your nice hiking boots will only lead to heartbreak as they become soaked and caked with red clay (which may never come off). Rubber boots (up to men’s size 11) are available in nearly every community for under $15. Bring along insole inserts or wear an extra pair of socks for more comfort. You will not regret this purchase and most any local person would appreciate the gift you decide to leave them behind after your tour.
Bring meds for yeast infections and athletes’ foot
Medications for yeast infections and athletes’ foot are not readily available or the pharmacist may not understand what medication you need. If prone, be prepared and bring your own just in case.
Umbrella
Often times the canopy of the forest will keep the light rains away for some time. Bring a large umbrella and a friend to hold it to extend the amount of time you can take pictures. The umbrella will protect your equipment in light rains.
Plastic bags
On any excursion bring only what you need in terms of documentation and money (photocopy of your passport, limited amount of cash, etc.) to keep a majority of your things dry and safe in your hotel room. Then, keep your wallet, camera, cell phone, cigarettes, etc. in plastic bags for extra protection from the rain and the humidity.
Kitty litter
If heading into a very humid area (most areas in Panama), bring along a large plastic bag, a nylon, and a sealed bag of silica cat litter. If your camera or other electronics stop working properly, tie some cat litter inside of the nylon. Then place the nylon and your electronic inside of the bag, being sure to open the lens or other areas that may have gotten damp. Seal the bag and let it sit at least overnight. The cat litter will absorb moisture and will hopefully help your camera to resume functioning correctly.
Drying closet
Some locations with electricity may have a drying closet or box. This is typically a closed area with a light bulb. Place your electronics in this area, with the light on, and allow them to dry out by the heat of the bulb.
Let equipment dry completely before turning on
If you should drop your phone or camera in the stream, or find that a piece of equipment is functioning poorly, do not rush the drying process. Open all doors and caps and allow the equipment ample time to dry. If you turn it on pre-maturely you may burn out the electronics.
With these few tips you can save yourself hassle and heartbreak. Enjoy Panama!
