Peru was, and still is, one of my absolute favourite countries from South America. Even though I covered most of the tourist trail in Southern Peru, I still have a yearning to go back there and try everything again.
By the time I landed in Lima, the capital of Peru, I was quite a way into my backpacking trip. In fact, I was probably around half way through already, so I was in the flow of unpacking and repacking my suitcase, and I knew exactly what I had, what I’d overpacked, and what I needed to buy for my time in Peru.
Besides the usual clothes, passport, and toothbrush, I had some serious hiking planned for Peru, including the Salkantay Trek, which took a whole new kind of preparation. New types of clothes, gear, and preparation for high altitudes (which you will probably need even if you’re not doing any hikes!). But no worries, I’ll go into all of that in this article.
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Why Travel in Peru?
As I mentioned in the introduction, Peru is an incredible country. It has such a diverse range of things to do, from the beach, to the mountains, to the arid desert. From the Amazon rainforest to Machu Picchu, there are so many once in a lifetime wonders to see, and you could literally spend months exploring it all.
Some of the highlights of my trip were in Peru, including the incredible sunset in Lima, sandboarding in Huacachina, seeing the white city of Arequipa and, of course, Machu Picchu.
🇵🇪 Read More About Peru: How to Plan the Perfect Peru Itinerary
Things to Think About Before You Pack for Peru
If you’re planning a trip to Peru, your packing needs will vary significantly depending on whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail, exploring the Sacred Valley, or venturing into the Amazon rainforest. I’ll go through everything step by step, and make sure you don’t miss anything.
Also, remember that you can buy a lot of things in Peru itself! I bought my headlamp, hiking poles and some gear in Cusco before I went on the Salkantay Trek, because I didn’t need them in the first part of my trip and I didn’t want to carry them all that way. Or, you can rent them, too.
The most important thing to consider when packing for Peru is that you’ll likely be dealing with high altitudes and varying weather conditions. In the desert you’ll feel like you’re on a beach holiday, whereas up in Cusco you need to be prepared for high-UV sunshine as well as freezing cold nights.
Whether you’re planning to take just carry-on luggage or check a bag, remember that you’ll be grateful for that extra layer when you’re at higher elevations.
🇵🇪 Read More About Peru: The Best Tours, Trips and Activities to do in Huacachina, Peru
Peru’s Seasons
Peru has two primary seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the rainy season (November to April). The temperature during the day and night doesn’t change much, it’s more the wetness and wind that you need to worry about.
The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit, especially for hiking the Inca Trail or visiting Machu Picchu. However, even during the dry season, you should be prepared for rain, particularly in the Amazon rainforest.
In higher altitudes like Cusco and Lake Titicaca, temperatures can get quite cold at night, even though it generally stays quite warm during the day. The best bet is to pack layers that you can add or remove as you need.
What Kind of Bag to Take to Peru
A good quality backpack is often the best way to travel in Peru, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple destinations. While a wheeled suitcase will be fine in major cities, they’re not ideal for the cobblestone streets in Cusco, or navigating the many steps of Aguas Calientes.
I highly recommend travelling with a backpack, and if you’re planning to do a trek then take a small daypack, too.
Peru Packing List
Essential Documents and Money
The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol, and US dollars are not widely accepted, however some activities and hikes will ask you to pay in cash, in USD. You can usually exchange Soles to Dollars at your accommodation or a bureau de exchange close by. There are some ATMs in Peru that are free to withdraw cash – I’ll write another article on this soon!
- Passport and travel insurance documentation
- Credit cards and some cash
- Cell phone and portable charger
- Power adapters for electrical outlets
Clothing for Various Weather Conditions
Layers are essential, especially if your itinerary sees you going up to high altitudes and then back down again! Here are some things you should think about taking:
- Waterproof jacket / rain jacket
- Fleece jacket for cold nights
- Short sleeved t shirts
- Long sleeved t shirts
- Shorts
- Swimsuit (many hostels and hotels in the desert have a pool)
- Long pants
- Hiking pants
- Underwear and socks
- Thick hiking socks
- A base layer
- Warm layers
- Loose, breathable clothing
- Warm layers for high elevations
- Hat, gloves and scarf (the hiking kind, not the fashionable kind!)
- A buff to cover your face in the desert
Footwear
Hiking shoes are absolutely essential if you want to do any long hikes; this isn’t something that you want to buy when you arrive, because you’ll need time to wear them in.
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Sneakers
- Flipflips or sliders (for the pool, and for hostel/hotel showers)
Hiking and Outdoor Gear
Here are a few things you should think about taking to keep you safe and comfortable during long or multi-day hikes:
- Day pack with rain cover
- Reusable water bottle
- Plastic bags for waterproofing essential items
- Small first aid kit & altitude medications
- Sun protection
- Multi-tool (optional, but so often comes in handy!)
You should keep the following things on your radar for multi-day hikes, but these are usually things you would rent or buy once you arrive in Peru (usually Cusco):
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Head lamp
- Food and water
- A rain poncho
Health and Safety Items
Whatever you take for health and safety is up to you, but I’d always recommend erring on the side of caution!
- First aid kit with common medication
- Prescription medication
- Altitude sickness medication
- Insect repellent
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Toilet paper
- Wet wipes
- Somewhere to store dirty clothes
- Basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc.
Tips for Different Destinations
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail
For archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, your best friend will be layers. Early morning starts mean cold temperatures that warm up quickly. Don’t forget:
- Rain gear (plastic ponchos are a lightweight option)
- Good pair of hiking boots
- Sun protection
- Extra layers
Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain
At higher altitudes in places like Rainbow Mountain, you’ll need:
- Warm clothes
- Sun protection
- Plenty of water
- First-aid kit within easy access
- Altitude medication
Amazon Rainforest
For lower altitudes in the Amazon:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof bags
- Quick-dry clothing
FAQs about Packing for Peru
What’s the most important thing to pack for high altitude destinations?
Warm layers and altitude sickness medication are essential. The temperature variation between day and night can be extreme, and altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level.
Do I need special gear for the Inca Trail?
Yes, if you’re hiking the Inca Trail, you’ll need proper hiking gear including comfortable walking shoes, a sleeping bag, and rain gear. Many items can be rented in Cusco if you want to avoid extra weight.
What kind of power adapters do I need in Peru?
Peru primarily uses 220V outlets with two-pronged flat pins. A universal adapter is a good option for most travellers.
Conclusion
Peru offers incredible diversity, from the high elevations of the Andes mountains to the remote areas of the Amazon rainforest. Having the right gear can make or break your travel experience, especially when dealing with altitude changes and varying weather conditions. By following this ultimate Peru packing list and considering your specific travel plans, you’ll be well-prepared for an amazing adventure in this fascinating country.