Heading to Peru? Use this packing list to ensure you are prepared for the adventure!
There is good reason why Peru is at the top of many people’s travel bucket lists. From the stunning heights of Machu Picchu to the lush depths of the Amazon rainforest, this country provides a new adventure around every corner.
However, packing for country with such diverse terrain is no easy feat. If you’re ready for an epic South American adventure but don’t know what to bring, fear not. This Peru packing list will help you with exactly what to bring for your trip!
Packing List for Peru
Packing for a trip to Peru requires consideration of various factors including the diverse climates across the country, the activities you plan to undertake and the cultural norms. This comprehensive packing list should cover the essentials for most travelers.
Travel Essentials for Peru
- Passport
- Travel insurance documents
- Flight tickets
- Credit/debit cards
- Cash
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
- Medications
- Phone & charger
- Universal power adapter
- Camera
- Daypack
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
Clothing to Pack for Peru
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm climates
- Warm layers for cooler highland areas (thermal underwear, fleece)
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Scarf and gloves (for high altitudes)
- Swimwear (for beaches or hot springs)
- Flip flops (for showers or casual wear)
- Socks (consider wool or moisture-wicking for hiking)
- Underwear
Gear for Peru
- Headlamp
- Travel towel
- Sleeping bag (if camping; check if provided on tours)
- Travel pillow (for long bus rides or camping)
- Binoculars
- Luggage locks
- Money belt
Toiletries for Peru
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and soap
- Deodorant
- Razor
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer
Most Important Items to Pack for Peru
Broad-spectrum sun cream
Peru’s proximity to the equator means it’s one of the countries with the highest ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Coastal regions can experience UV levels of up to 19 on a scale of 0 to 20. Slathering on a broad-spectrum sun cream with an SPF of at least 30 and a PA+++ rating can reduce this risk of getting sunburns by up to 40%.
Recommended Sun Cream: Nivea’s Sun Protect & Moisturise Lotion with SPF50+ is an affordable sun cream option that is available at most pharmacies.
Protective Eyewear
When visiting high-altitude places like Cusco and Macchu Picchu, there is more of chance of exposure to harmful UV rays due to the atmosphere being thinner. A good pair of regular sunglasses or prescription sunglasses will shield your eyes from excess UV exposure, reducing your risk of developing conditions like photokeratitis and cataracts.
Recommended Eye Wear: All Ray-Ban sunglasses come with UV protection and block 85% of visible light. They also offer many styles with prescription lenses.
All-weather Jacket
Due to its varied geographical features, Peru has a large diversity of climates. While its coastal areas can be hot and sunny, you’ll also come across very cold temperatures once you venture into the Andean highlands. That’s why it’s best to be prepared and pack an all-weather jacket that you can wear, even amid sudden temperature changes.
Recommended All-Weather Jacket: The lightweight Parkland Waterproof Jacket from Rohan boasts total water resistance and windproof capabilities, ensuring optimal protection in any weather.
Hiking boots
Peru has some absolutely unmissable hiking trails, the most famous being the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. According to Maritza Chacacanta, an expert local guide with 20 years of experience, that makes good hiking boots the most essential item to bring to Peru.
Recommended Hiking Boots: The Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots provide good foot and ankle support, are waterproof, and offer excellent traction even in slippery conditions.
Need help packing for a trip? Read these posts next!
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- Carry-On Packing List: 12 Things to Add
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