Chapter 28 — Recommended Gear · Rio de Janeiro Guide
Recommended Gear for Rio de Janeiro
A short list of items that make the difference between a smooth trip and an avoidable headache, based on everything covered in this guide.
An anti-theft crossbody bag worn in front removes the easiest opportunity for bag-slashing or a quick grab-and-run in crowds — the two most common ways tourists lose belongings in Rio. Some models even have a built-in USB port on the outside, so you can keep your power bank zipped safely inside and charge your phone through an external cable without ever opening the bag in public.
🎒 Anti-theft Bag Tip
Look for an anti-theft crossbody bag with a cut-resistant strap and a hidden zipper against your body — and ideally a built-in external USB port, so your power bank stays zipped safely inside while you charge.
In the full guide, this chapter also covers:
- Why a universal power adapter has no local workaround once you've landed
- Why a dead phone in an unfamiliar city is a real safety issue, not just an inconvenience
The full guide explains the specific reasoning behind each recommended item, chapter by chapter.
Frequently asked questions
What plug adapter do I need for Brazil?
Brazilian outlets use a mixed Type N/C standard, different from the US, UK and most of Europe — pack a universal adapter, since there's no workaround once you've landed.