The Buenos Aires Vibe’s Guide to Surviving a Night Out in Buenos Aires

If there’s one thing Buenos Aires is known for beyond Messi and tango, it’s its nightlife. Those wild stories of dancing until sunrise, endless laughter, and energy that just doesn’t quit aren’t just rumors—they’re a way of life here. Someway or another you were convinced into going out or somehow found yourself added to the group chat, but there’s no turning back now.- You’re heading to your first joda. Many of thought “No way can I stay up that late.” But trust us, with a bit of preparation, you’ll be partying like a local and loving every second of it. Here are some quick tips for surviving, thriving, and embracing your manija while partying in Buenos Aires:

Seriously, nothing kills the vibe like a dead phone. Make sure it’s charged because you’ll need it for everything—directions, group chats, and, of course, taking selfies to remember the night (because you might not remember parts of it). But don’t be that person who’s glued to their screen. Live a little, amigui. The real party is happening around you.

Before you head out, grab a riñonera (fanny pack) and load it up. Here’s what you need to survive the night:

• Fan: Clubs here get caliente, like sauna hot. A fan is a lifesaver.
• Gum: Fresh breath is essential, especially when you’re shouting over the music.
• Candy/Suckers: Sugar equals energy. Plus, they’re a hit when shared.
• Sunglasses: Perfect for when the club lights are blinding, or you just need a moment to chill without feeling overstimulated. Throw on some shades and keep the vibes cool and laid-back, even in the middle of the dance floor.
• Cash: You might love the convenience of plastic, but Buenos Aires still loves its cash. Taxis, some bars, and late-night food spots may not take cards. And if your phone dies, you’ll be glad you’ve got a few pesos stashed away. 
• ID: Bring something to prove you’re of age, but leave the passport at home. A photo of your ID should suffice, too. 

Buenos Aires is all about looking fachero—stylish and effortlessly cool. But comfort is just as crucial. You’ll be out until the early morning, dancing and having a blast, so wear something that lets you move and groove. Think casual chic: outfits that say, “I’m here to party,” but also let you feel at ease. You can’t go wrong with wearing black, paired with comfortable sneakers or boots. The key is to feel good in what you’re wearing. If you don’t feel fachero, don’t wear it. Embrace your own style and don’t overthink it.

If you’re used to heading out around 9 p.m., Buenos Aires will blow your mind. Here, the party doesn’t start until well after midnight, and clubs don’t fill up until 2 a.m. or later. Take a nap if you need to because this city runs on a different schedule.

To have the best night out in your life, we gotta cover some quick safety points first: 

• Stick with Your Group: It’s always safer (and more fun) to party with friends. Keep an eye on each other throughout the night.
• Watch Your Drinks: Just like anywhere else, be mindful of your drinks. Don’t leave them unattended, and it’s okay to politely decline if a stranger offers you one.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: While the city is generally safe, stay alert in crowded places to avoid pickpockets. Keep your valuables close and your riñonera zipped.
• Use Registered Taxis: When it’s time to head home, use a registered taxi or a ride-sharing app like Cabify for a reliable way back.
• Know Your Limits: Buenos Aires can keep the party going all night, but listen to your body. If you feel too tired or unwell, it’s perfectly okay to end the night early.

Before hitting the clubs, do a previa—the pregame. It’s a ritual where friends gather, sip on some Fernet and Coke, share laughs, and set the mood for the night. The previa is essential for warming up and bonding, but don’t get too comfortable.  The real action is waiting out there in the city.

Argentine efficiency is an oxymoron you’ll soon learn to laugh about. In many bars, you’ll need to queue twice—once to buy a drink ticket and once to actually get the drink. It’s quirky, it’s frustrating, but it’s part of the charm. Use this time to chat up someone interesting or just take in the scene. It’s all part of the experience.

All that you have done has prepared you for this very moment. This is THE moment you’ve been waiting for. This is where we get into the heart of the matter: finding your manija. Manija is that electric vibe that takes over when the DJ drops a killer beat, the crowd cheers, and you just can’t stop moving. It’s the energy that makes you feel alive, even when your legs are begging for a break.

Embrace the manija. Let it take over your body, lose yourself in the music, and don’t worry about anything else. Sing the lyrics at the top of your lungs, throw your hands in the air,  and just be present. The night might be long,  but once you’re locked into the energy, it will feel infinite and the night is yours to conquer.

Life pro tip: just go in the taxi from the get-go. 

Back in the group chat, the plan was solid: Taking the Bondi (bus) or the subte (subway) home, easy, simple, cheap. Fast forward 40 minutes, and there you are—feet hurting, freezing your butt off, and seriously questioning your life choices. The bus? Nowhere in sight. The subte? Forget about it. You’ve been standing around al pedo (doing nothing), and now you’re just over it. With a heavy sigh, you whip out your phone, and boom—cab it is. It’s a rite of passage, really—thinking you’ll brave the wait, only to cave and hop in a taxi. You’ll be home soon. Comfort over cosmic journeys.

The final step to surviving a night out in Buenos Aires: satisfying that inevitable bajón (the munchies). Leftover cold slices of pizza with mate, some fresh facturas from the panadería, whatever you can get your hands on—just eat something. Your body will thank you later. And a word to the wise: hold off on uploading those party pics to social media until you’ve had some sleep and regained a bit of clarity.

Congratulations—you’ve survived your first night out in Buenos Aires! But don’t get too comfortable; this city has a way of pulling you back out for more. There’s no shortage of jodas to keep the nights long and the memories unforgettable. So rest up, recharge, and get ready for the next adventure. Welcome to the never-ending party that is Buenos Aires nightlife.