Planning a dove hunting trip to Argentina is one of the most exciting things a wingshooter can do. But between customs paperwork, luggage restrictions, and the reality of shooting 1,000+ rounds a day, packing wrong can seriously dampen the experience. After decades of hosting hunters from across the world at our three Córdoba lodges, we’ve seen every packing mistake in the book — and we’ve helped fix most of them.
This is the definitive H&H packing list. Save it, print it, or send it to everyone in your group.
Before We Start: What You DON’T Need to Pack
Let’s get this out of the way first.
You don’t need to bring ammunition. Not a single shell. All hunting takes place on H&H-owned property and we provide high-quality shells — typically RD or Fiocchi in 12 and 20 gauge — at the lodge. Trying to travel with ammo creates customs headaches and airline restrictions that simply aren’t worth it.
You don’t need to bring a shotgun — unless you really want to. H&H lodges are stocked with well-maintained semi-automatic 20-gauge shotguns for guest use. Most first-timers are surprised by how good they are. If you do decide to bring your own gun, your outfitter coordinator will walk you through the ANAC (Argentina’s civil aviation authority) import permit process well in advance.
The Clothing List
Argentina’s dove season peaks from March through August, which is fall and winter in the Southern Hemisphere. Days are mild and often sunny — think high 50s to low 70s Fahrenheit — but mornings can be cool and afternoons warm up quickly.
In the field:
- Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirts (sun protection matters all day)
- Comfortable hunting pants or tactical-style trousers — avoid denim, it gets heavy with sweat
- A light jacket or fleece for early morning drives to the field
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking or trail boots — you’ll be standing for hours
- A wide-brim hat or cap — the Córdoba sun is relentless
- UV-protection shooting glasses (not just safety glasses; your eyes will thank you after day two)
- Moisture-wicking base layers for cooler months (June–July)
At the lodge:
- Casual clothes for evenings — think smart-casual, not formal
- A light sweater or fleece for cool lodge nights
- Comfortable footwear for walking around the grounds
The Shooting Gear Checklist
This is where most hunters under-pack.
- Recoil pad / shooting vest with shoulder padding — This is the single most important item. Brands like PAST, Beretta, or any padded shooting vest work well. Some hunters swear by EvoShield recoil shirts.
- Ear protection — Bring both foam earplugs (backup) and quality electronic earmuffs. Electronic muffs let you hear conversation and bird calls while protecting your hearing. In high-volume shooting, standard foam plugs alone are not enough for full-day protection.
- Shooting gloves — After a few hundred shells, bare hands blister. Lightweight leather shooting gloves are your friend.
- Shell pouch or shooting vest with shell loops — Your bird boy will reload for you in the field, but having pockets keeps you organized between shots.
Personal & Health Essentials
- Prescription medications — Bring enough for the full trip plus a few extra days. Pharmacies in rural Córdoba are limited.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) — Apply before you leave the lodge every morning. Reapply at midday. The Argentine sun at open-field altitude is intense.
- Lip balm — The dry winter air cracks lips fast.
- Insect repellent — Mosquitoes are not a major issue in Córdoba’s dry season, but having a small bottle for evenings near water features is smart.
- Electrolyte packets or tablets — You’ll sweat more than you expect, especially in summer months.
- Basic first aid kit — Blister bandages, ibuprofen, antacids, and any personal prescriptions.
- Quality sunglasses — Bring a second pair. Scratched or broken lenses mid-trip are a serious inconvenience.
Documents & Logistics
- Valid passport — US citizens do not need a tourist visa for Argentina. EU and most Western passport holders are also visa-exempt, but confirm for your nationality before traveling.
- Travel insurance documentation — We strongly recommend coverage that includes medical evacuation.
- Firearm import permit (if bringing your own gun) — Your H&H trip coordinator handles the ANAC paperwork. Do not attempt to process this independently at the last minute.
- Cash (USD) — Argentina’s economy makes cash king for gratuities and incidentals. USD is widely accepted and preferred. ATM access at the lodges is not available. We recommend arriving with $300–$500 in small bills for tips and personal expenses.
Electronics & Power
Argentina runs on 220V electricity with European-style two-round-pin outlets (Type C and I). US plugs (Type A/B) will not fit without an adapter.
- Universal plug adapter — Essential
- Voltage converter if your devices are not dual-voltage (check your charger brick; most modern phone and laptop chargers are 100–240V and won’t need a converter)
- Portable battery pack — For long days in the field away from outlets
- Camera or GoPro — The action is remarkable and you’ll want footage. A chest mount or helmet mount works well for GoPro use in the field. Ask your bird boy to help position it.
- SD cards and charging cables — Bring extras
What Experienced Hunters Bring That First-Timers Miss
A few things that rarely appear on generic packing lists but consistently come up in post-trip conversations at the lodge:
Small gifts for the staff. The bird boys, loaders, and field staff at H&H lodges are some of the most skilled and attentive people in the business. Bringing small items from home — a baseball cap from your home team, a pocket knife, candy for their families — is a genuinely appreciated gesture that goes a long way. Cash gratuities are always welcome, but a thoughtful gift on top of that is something they remember.
A reusable water bottle. Water and beverages are available at the field, but having your own insulated bottle keeps things cold longer and is good practice in the field.
Spare shooting glasses. If your lenses crack or get covered in grime mid-week, having a backup pair avoids a miserable remaining few days of squinting.
Quick Reference: The H&H Packing List
| Category | Item | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (3–4) | Sun protection |
| Clothing | Hunting pants (2–3 pairs) | No jeans |
| Clothing | Light jacket / fleece | Cool mornings |
| Clothing | Sturdy hiking boots | Already broken in |
| Clothing | Wide-brim hat | Essential |
| Clothing | Casual evening clothes | Smart-casual |
| Shooting | Recoil pad or padded shooting vest | Non-negotiable |
| Shooting | Electronic earmuffs | foam plugs as backup |
| Shooting | Leather shooting gloves | Prevents blisters |
| Shooting | UV shooting glasses + spare pair | — |
| Health | Sunscreen SPF 30+ | Apply daily |
| Health | Electrolyte packets | High-activity days |
| Health | Personal medications (extra supply) | — |
| Health | Blister bandages & ibuprofen | — |
| Documents | Passport | Valid 6+ months |
| Documents | Travel insurance docs | With medevac coverage |
| Documents | ANAC gun permit (if applicable) | H&H coordinates this |
| Cash | $300–500 USD in small bills | Gratuities |
| Electronics | Universal plug adapter (220V / Type C/I) | Required |
| Electronics | Camera / GoPro + mounts | You’ll want the footage |
| Extras | Small gifts for bird boys | Caps, candy, small knives |
| Extras | Insulated water bottle | — |
Final Thought
The goal when packing for Argentina is simple: arrive light on gear you don’t need, and heavy on comfort gear for your body. The hunting at H&H lodges takes care of itself. What we can’t control is whether your shoulder gives out on day three because you skipped the recoil pad.
Pack smart, come rested, and be ready for the best wingshooting of your life.
