Don’t Walk Around Panama Without…
Toilet Paper – It is not unusual to see a Panamanian mom with a full roll in her purse. A small ziploc bag stuffed with generous amounts of TP works for me. It does take up much space or add to the weight in your backpack so just toss it in your bag. Even the nicest, most modern bathrooms might not be stocked.
Hand Sanitizer – Public restrooms may or may not have a sink or running water so you’ll always want to keep a tiny bottle handy. Before you run off to Costco and buy a case of it, you can purchase hand sanitizer in all scents and sizes right here in Panama. I don’t know if this is recommended but I have used hand sanitizer to clean a carrot or an apple when water was unavailable.
A Bandana – In case you didn’t know, it’s hot in Panama. But Panamanians don’t walk around covered in sweat so neither should you. A bandana is great for wiping off the sweat as well as drying your hands when the public restroom has no paper towels. I have never regretted carrying a bandana or two around with me.
Your Passport – When you are in a rural community, no worries. But don’t go into town, to the beach, or off touring without carrying identification. The authorities do occasionally stop and ask for your “cedula.” If you don’t have it, they can arrest you. At certain points during long distance bus trips, an official might board the bus and check the identification of every passenger. Don’t go out without your passport (or a laminated copy of the main page).
Cash – Credit and debit cards are accepted throughout Panama City and the provincial capitals but don’t try to float around without cash because there are many things that you just can’t charge and many places where an ATM machine cannot be found. And don’t try to do anything fancy like getting cash back with your purchase. If you need cash, get it from an ATM. But don’t forget that your US bank will have international fees in addition to the usual charges. So, remember that you are not in the US and cannot live a cash-free life.
And cash should be in denominations of $20 and less. You can pay with a $50 or $100 bill but only at big, modern store or banks and you will have to show identification, and complete and sign a special form. To avoid the hassle, stick to small bills.
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