Planning your dream trip to Brazil? Whether you’re heading to Rio’s beaches, the Amazon rainforest, or charming colonial towns, a little preparation can go a long way. From unpredictable weather to the magic of WhatsApp, Brazil is full of quirks that first-time visitors don’t usually expect.
In this guide, we’re revealing 10 clever (and sometimes surprising) travel hacks that will help you save money, avoid stress, and enjoy Brazil like a local. These aren’t your usual tourist tips, they’re real insights from people who’ve been there, learned the hard way, and want to make your adventure smoother.
Let’s dive in and get you ready for your best trip to Brazil yet!
1. Don’t rely on card payments everywhere
While major cities and touristy areas accept credit and debit cards, don’t count on it everywhere, especially if you’re visiting small towns, beaches, or street markets. Brazil still runs on cash in many places. Whether you’re grabbing fresh pastel at a local feira or hopping on a local bus, having a small amount of Brazilian reais in your wallet is a must.
ATM and currency tips:
- ATMs (called “caixas eletrônicos”) are widely available, but may not always work with international cards.
- Avoid airport exchange booths, rates are usually bad.
- Consider using international money transfer apps like Wise or Nomad for better exchange rates and low-fee withdrawals.
Pro tip: If your accommodation offers to receive international transfers (yes, that’s a thing in Brazil), apps like Wise can save you both time and money.
2. Use WhatsApp for everything (seriously!)
If there’s one app you should have before you land in Brazil, it’s WhatsApp. Brazilians use it for everything. From hotel bookings and restaurant reservations to airport transfers and even dental appointments, WhatsApp is the default communication tool.
Why it matters for travelers:
- Many local businesses don’t have websites, but they do respond quickly via WhatsApp.
- Want a tour quote, confirm your reservation, or ask for a custom pick-up? Send a quick message.
- You’ll often get faster, friendlier service than by phone or email.
Bonus hack: Use WhatsApp Web or Desktop to save data or type faster while connected to Wi-Fi.
If you’re planning to take tours around Brazil, it’s important to book with a reliable agency! We recommend Civitatis, which offers tours all over the world and a wide variety of options in Brazil for every style and preference!
3. Pack smart: lightweight, breathable clothes + 1 jacket
Brazil is a tropical country, but that doesn’t mean it’s hot 24/7. While places like Rio and Bahia are hot and humid, other destinations, especially in the South or in high-altitude cities like São Paulo and Belo Horizonte, can get chilly, especially at night or in air-conditioned places.
Packing hacks to make your trip smoother:
- Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
- Pack a light jacket or hoodie for cooler nights and buses (they love air-con!).
- Use packing cubes to stay organized and save space.
- Roll your clothes instead of folding to avoid wrinkles and fit more in your bag.
Want a full packing checklist by region and season?
👉 Check out our What to Pack for a Trip to Brazil guide
4. Book internal flights early and watch for regional airports
Brazil is huge (roughly the size of the U.S.) and getting around by bus can take forever. The good news? Domestic flights are often affordable if you book in advance.
Cheap flight hacks for traveling within Brazil:
- Use apps like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track deals.
- Be flexible with dates and fly during the week (Tuesday/Wednesday are usually cheaper).
- Don’t just look at major airports! Cities like São Paulo and Rio have multiple airports, sometimes the smaller ones have better deals or shorter lines.
If you’re going to remote places like the Amazon, flights from Manaus often fill up fast. Book early!
5. Avoid tap water, but bring a reusable bottle
In most parts of Brazil, tap water is not considered safe to drink. Locals usually drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water, and so should you.
But that doesn’t mean you need to buy plastic bottles everywhere. Here’s a smarter, more sustainable way:
- Bring a reusable bottle with a built-in filter.
- Many hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs have water filters or offer refills.
- You’ll save money and reduce plastic waste, a win-win.
Tip: Always check if your accommodation offers filtered water. Some jungle lodges and ecolodges include it as part of the stay.
6. Learn a few key portuguese phrases
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil and most locals don’t speak fluent English. While in major cities you might find someone who understands a bit, don’t count on it. Learning just a few words will go a long way in making your trip smoother (and locals will appreciate the effort!).
Here are some basic phrases that can help:
- “Olá!” (Hello)
- “Oi!” (Hi)
- “Por favor” (Please)
- “Obrigado/a” (Thank you)
- “Quanto custa?” (How much?)
- “Você fala inglês?” (Do you speak English?)
- “Eu não falo português” (I don’t speak Portuguese)
Translation apps to the rescue:
- Google Translate: Download the Portuguese offline pack.
- SayHi or iTranslate: Great for real-time audio translation.
Even if it’s just pointing at the screen, that’s already a game-changer.
7. Use Google Maps offline + download local taxi apps
Internet can be patchy — especially in rural areas, beach towns, or deep in the Amazon. One of the smartest things you can do before leaving your hotel Wi-Fi is to download your maps for offline use.
Travel hacks for navigation and transportation:
- Open Google Maps, search your destination, then hit “Download” for offline use.
- Save key locations (hotel, airport, attractions) as favorites.
Ride apps that work well in Brazil:
- Uber – widely used and safe
- 99 – popular among locals, sometimes cheaper than Uber
- InDriver – lets you suggest a fare and negotiate
These apps are often more reliable and safer than hailing cabs on the street, especially late at night or in unfamiliar areas.
8. Don’t underestimate internal distances
Brazil is massive. Really. It’s bigger than Australia and almost the same size as the continental U.S. Trying to visit Rio, the Amazon, the Pantanal, and Foz do Iguaçu in one trip? That’s a rookie mistake.
Travel smarter, not faster:
- Focus on one or two regions per trip.
- Prioritize quality time over checking boxes.
- Factor in travel time — even domestic flights can take 3+ hours.
Bonus tip: If you’re short on time, look for destinations that combine experiences — for example, the Amazon + Manaus, or Rio + Paraty + Ilha Grande.
9. Sundays are for beach, not shopping
Here’s something that often surprises travelers: Sundays in Brazil are super chill — and that means most shops, banks, and offices are closed. Even restaurants might have limited hours.
But there’s a flip side…
🌞 Sundays = beach day!
Locals flock to beaches, parks, and public squares with friends and family.
Street vendors, coconut stands, and music make it lively and fun.
It’s a perfect day to blend in and soak up the local vibe.
Travel hack: Plan your shopping, money exchange, or pharmacy visits for weekdays or Saturdays to avoid disappointment.
10. Buy a local SIM card or eSIM ASAP
Staying connected is essential, not just for maps and social media, but also for booking rides, contacting your hotel, or checking real-time updates.
Your best connectivity options:
- Buy a local SIM card at the airport, a mall kiosk, or major drugstore chains like Droga Raia or Pague Menos.
- Popular providers include Claro, TIM, and Vivo.
- Bring your passport, it’s required to register a SIM.
Prefer eSIM?
Services like Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad offer prepaid data packages you can activate as soon as you land.
It’s a great option if your phone is eSIM-compatible and you want to avoid language barriers.
Pro tip: 4G is widely available in cities and tourist spots, but remote areas (like the Amazon or rural parts of the Pantanal) may only have limited or no signal, plan accordingly.
Bonus tips for air travel to Brazil
Whether you’re flying from North America or Europe, getting to Brazil usually means a long-haul flight. That’s why a few airplane travel hacks can make a big difference in how you start your trip.
What to bring in your carry-on:
- A light sweater or scarf (airplanes can get cold)
- Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
- A refillable water bottle (fill it after security)
- Snacks — Brazilian airlines may not always offer full meals on short domestic legs
- Entertainment: download movies, music, or audiobooks beforehand
- Toiletries: toothbrush, face wipes, lip balm, hand sanitizer
- Essential medicine and an extra change of clothes
How to sleep on the flight:
- Pack a neck pillow (inflatable ones save space)
- Use a melatonin supplement if it works for you
- Set your watch to your destination’s time zone as soon as you board and try to adapt
- Use a sleep mask and bring socks for extra comfort
Airport survival tips:
- Major hubs like São Paulo GRU and Rio GIG can be overwhelming. Follow signage carefully, and if you have a long layover, check if your airline offers a lounge pass or if there’s a day hotel nearby.
- Many airports in Brazil don’t offer 24/7 service, so plan accordingly if arriving on a red-eye flight.
Pro tip: Download Netflix shows, Spotify playlists, Kindle books, or Google Maps offline before you leave Wi-Fi. It’s a lifesaver when you’re stuck with slow or no internet mid-travel.
Brazil is one of the most vibrant, diverse, and unforgettable countries in the world and with just a few smart hacks, your trip can go from good to incredible.
From understanding the local rhythm to planning for the long distances, every tip you’ve read here can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
🇧🇷 Ready to travel smarter?
👉 Don’t miss our full guide on What to pack for a trip to Brazil
👉 Get inspired with the best Things to do in Brazil
Boa viagem! ✈️🌴
