What to Pack for Peru: Our Personal Packing List

Trying to figure out exactly what to pack for your trip to Peru? You’ve come to the experts. 

We know how overwhelming packing for a trip can be, especially if you’re combining outdoor adventure with city travel and are limited on space.

Lucky for you, we’ve spent a lot of time in Peru and even lived in Lima for a bit! We’ve hiked to Machu Picchu, visited Rainbow Mountain, and explored Puerto Maldonado’s waterways. Through our travels, we’ve learned what’s actually worth bringing—and what you can leave at home. 

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it contains some of the items that we believe are true “must-haves”. We built this from real experience to help you feel prepared, organized, and ready to fully enjoy your trip without overpacking or unnecessary stress.

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What to Pack for Your Peru Trip

1. Filter Water Bottle

This LARQ PureVis 2 water bottle is high on the list for many reasons! It has a built-in filter, allowing you to drink water from any source with its high-quality purification system.

Normally, you won’t want to drink tap water anywhere in South America, but this water filter makes it safe! So instead of buying a new plastic water bottle every day, you can simply reuse this one.

For the outdoors, it’s an easy water source. Simply fill up your bottle from a stream or a fresh water source, and it’s quickly drinkable water. This will allow you to pack less water and use less plastic – hooray! Whether you’re hiking and camping in Peru’s stunning outdoors or exploring one of its many lively cities, you’ll love having a filter water bottle.

It also self-cleans every 2 hours, which is great if you’re traveling for a few weeks and don’t have time to clean it yourself. I was so impressed when I started using this water bottle – it’s seriously ahead of its time! I also picked up replacement filters when I purchased my bottle, since you’ll need to replace them every 2 months. 

Another excellent filter bottle is the LifeStraw Water Bottle. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that the LARQ Bottle has, it does its main job well and is a more affordable option. We like how it’s lightweight and compact, so if you throw it in your backpack or carry it on a hike, it isn’t too heavy or bulky. It filters out parasites, microplastics, bacteria, and even sand, dirt, or unknown cloudiness in water.

It’s a convenient travel item that gives you peace of mind while you travel to foreign places. Don’t forget to pick up a replacement filter as well, so you’re never without filtered water.

2. Sunscreen

One thing I never skip packing for Peru is sunscreen, and this one is my go-to. At high altitudes, the sun is surprisingly harsh (maybe because you’re closer to the sun?). Regardless of the reason, you won’t want to get a sunburn halfway into your trip!

While out hiking, rafting, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely afternoon strolling through the city, you’ll want sun protection. Even on overcast days, sunscreen is necessary because UV rays are more intense!

I personally love this natural sunscreen; it’s light on your skin but protective, and it’s a small bottle, so it’s packable. This is the same brand I use to protect the reefs when I’m snorkeling, so it’s my preferred choice wherever I’m traveling, because I know it’s gentle on the environment and my skin. Plus, it stays on while you sweat!

3. Bug Balm Repellent

Peru has a diverse climate, but one thing that never wavers is the bugs. Whether you’re in the jungle, the mountains, or the desert, the bugs will be there. Both malaria and dengue are prevalent in Peru, and after having dengue myself, I am unwavering with my insect repellent!

My friend told me about this repellent balm, and now I totally swear by it! It’s made with natural products, so it’s eco-friendly and feels light and clean on your skin. Best of all, it actually works really well at repelling mosquitoes and other unfavorable flying creatures. I also really like that it’s a balm, so it doesn’t leak if I toss it in my bag, and it’s small, so I take it everywhere with me. 

Small, packable, TSA-approved, and a lifesaver! You don’t want to leave without it.

4. Microfiber Towel

Microfiber towels are another one of those “must-pack” items that all seasoned travelers will swear by. This is especially true in Peru, where you might be on a multi-day excursion, at a hostel, or simply need something to wipe the sweat off your face. Since microfiber towels are so small and lightweight, they are really easy to pack and come in handy frequently!

While there are a lot of options out there, I prefer this microfiber towel! It comes in a variety of sizes, so you can choose what is best for you. It’s quick drying and packable, and high-quality microfiber – I’ve used the same towel for years, and it’s held up!

5. Daypack

Another essential on my Peru packing list is a lightweight day pack, and this REI Flash 22 is the one I always reach for. 

You’ll be out exploring most days during your Peru trip, exploring historic cities, going on day trips, or setting off on a hike. Having a versatile backpack that fits everything you need for the day is key.

I can easily pack sunscreen, water, snacks, a rain jacket (because those rain showers can come out of nowhere), and my camera gear. What I love most is how compact it is. It fits easily in my luggage or works perfectly as a personal item on the plane, but once you’re there, it still holds everything you need for a full day of adventures.

If you’re looking to travel with a large backpack instead of a suitcase, we highly recommend this Cotopaxi Allpa. This is the backpack we’ve used for a few years now, and it’s my all-time favorite. It opens up like a suitcase, so it’s easy to stay organized, and at 42 liters, you can actually pack so many things in here – trust me, we live out of these backpacks! They are also very comfortable to wear if you’re carrying them through the airport or on the trail.

6. Sun Shirt

We love these REI sun shirts because they are versatile and perfect for Peru’s ever-changing climate.

On a hot day, it will protect you from UV rays in a lightweight and packable top. When it’s cold out, it serves as a fantastic base layer! It’s great if you’re at the beach, in the Andes, or exploring the Amazon. I’ve also found it to be a great way to prevent bug bites.

For women, I recommend this specific sun shirt. It’s the one I’ve had for years, and it’s kept me cool in the hot weather and safe from sunburns. This men’s sun shirt is of the same quality and one of the top-rated options out there!

7. Travel Adapter

A travel adapter is one of those items that is easily overlooked, but can be essential depending on where you’re from! Peru uses types A, B, and C sockets, and the voltage is 220V, compared to the standard 110V in North America.

We have this universal travel adapter, which is really handy because you only need this one, no matter where you travel. It also has multiple charging ports, which can be helpful as hotels often have a shortage of plugs. This is a must-pack for any international trip, in my opinion. I keep it in my bag all the time, that way I don’t forget it, as this is often overlooked!

This adapter does not convert voltage. For most items (computers, phone chargers, and camera chargers), you don’t need a voltage converter. But certain items, like a hairdryer, do need a voltage converter. We snagged this voltage converter before we left, just to be safe, but read the labels on your devices to double-check whether it’s needed or not!

8. First Aid Kit for Hiking

This hiking first aid kit is essential for Peru travel! Even if you’re going on a short, easy, and well-populated hike, you’ll want to have a first-aid kit on hand. This is even truer if you’re planning more advanced hikes.

Peru’s wilderness is vast, and small accidents can easily turn into scary ordeals if you’re not well prepared. We never hit the trail without this first aid kit. It has everything you might need to provide basic care until further help arrives or you can get to a safer location. The pack itself is waterproof and has an instruction guide, so even if you have no first aid training, you can figure it out!

9. Travel Medications

It’s always good to be prepared, especially when you’re traveling in a foreign country. After getting sick one too many times, we’ve learned how important it is to pack a solid travel med kit—and this particular one truly has it all.

While you can find pharmacies all over Peru, it can be tricky navigating a language barrier or ending up with an unfamiliar off-brand (I know this from experience!). From food poisoning and allergies to cuts or basic pain relief, having everything you need in one place is a huge relief.

10. Altitude sickness medication

Depending on where you’re traveling in Peru, you might need to acclimate to the altitude. Areas such as Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, and the Sacred Valley all sit at higher elevations than Lima, which sits at sea level. Some people can adjust pretty well when taking the proper precautions. But others might get hit with altitude sickness, which feels like the worst hangover of your life – without the fun the night before!

Bringing along altitude sickness medication is an easy way to prevent or help alleviate any sickness. It’s not a cure-all, but it certainly helps with the symptoms of altitude sickness and allows you to recover faster, so you can enjoy your vacation and not spend it in the hotel. Bringing this ahead of time means you don’t have to run around and find a pharmacy – it’s just easier to pack it before you go!

11. On-the-go hygiene

We love traveling to more remote destinations, and Peru’s stunning beauty is best found off the beaten path! But you know what’s not often included when you go rogue? Proper bathrooms.

Another easy and small packing tip that can make a big difference is keeping a little on-the-go hygiene kit in your day bag. There will be many times that you stop for a bathroom that is lacking in toilet paper and soap, so skip the middleman and bring your own!

I love this Mrs. Meyers’ hand sanitizer – honestly, anything from this brand! It’s small and packable, smells amazing, and is antibacterial. Keep it in your bag and spray it on before you eat, after using the toilet, or after visiting a busy market.

Additionally, packing some travel-sized toilet wipes is a game-changer. Especially if you get hit with some sort of food poisoning or your stomach is adjusting to travel. Having some wipes on hand just gives me peace of mind!

12. Comfortable walking sandals

One of my biggest stressors when packing is figuring out the exact right items to bring, especially when we’re talking shoes! Not only are the bulky items limiting you to how many pairs you can bring, but they also need to check all of the boxes. For me, comfort is key, but I also like functionality and a bit of fashionability, if possible. 

Both Dan and I love Tevas for comfort, durability, and they still look good! I have a pair of these Teva Hydraktrek sandals, and they are perfect whether we are hiking to a waterfall, strolling through town, or hanging out around the campfire. Another one of my favorite travel sandals is these EVA Birkenstocks. They are made with a durable foam, making them super lightweight and ideal for a campground shower or a cute summer dress.

Dan swears by his Teva Hurricanes for the men. They have padding around the toes and heels so they don’t rub while you’re breaking them in. Luckily, Peru has an outdoorsy-style, so they work no matter where you travel – they tick all the boxes!

13. Women’s Clothing

While not every trip to Peru involves the outdoors, it’s certainly a big draw. And even if you’re not hitting the trails, you’ll want some clothes that pack well, don’t have to be washed after every use, and hold up in hot or cold climates. Here are a few of my favorite outdoor-related clothes that I always pack on my Peru adventures.

Throughout my years of travel, I’ve learned that buying higher-quality items lasts much longer, and you usually don’t have to do laundry as often because these fabrics don’t hold on to smells. It’s ideal if you’re traveling for an extended period of time or don’t have access to laundry for your entire trip. 

For tops, I love this moisture-wicking t-shirt and this tank top! Not only do they go with a lot of outfits, but they are also breathable, ideal for hot temperatures. 

When you’re ready to hit the trails, I can’t recommend these convertible hiking pants enough. They might feel a little silly at first, but once you can quickly change from pants to shorts – you’ll be thanking me!

Finally, socks. I never really thought about buying good quality socks vs. cheap socks – but it actually makes a difference! Especially if you’re traveling and can’t pack 20 pairs of socks. These merino wool ankle socks can actually be worn multiple times without a wash, and they don’t get stinky. For hiking, I prefer these crew socks. 

14. Men’s Clothing

As far as men’s clothing goes, there are some great items that will make your pack lighter but are just as efficient! 

Dan has had this merino wool t-shirt for years and loves to wear it in hot or cold climates. It’s breathable and actually keeps you cooler, so it’s great for a hike or exploring the city, but still has wool properties that keep you warm when temperatures drop. This athletic shirt is another option that’s frequently packed, at a slightly more affordable rate. 

These convertible hiking pants have a similar appeal because the fabric is so lightweight! Plus, you can wear them on the trail or out to dinner, and as shorts or as pants. They are ideal for packing as they cover multiple occasions. 

And we can’t forget about the socks! As I said earlier, the quality makes a difference. We’ve both had this brand of merino socks for years, and they last forever and keep your feet cool in the heat and warm in the winter. 

15. Rain Jacket

Peru’s rainy season is from November to April, and during this season, you might have a bright, beautiful morning, followed by torrential downpours in the afternoon. This mostly hits in the Andes and Amazon regions, but in the dry coastal regions (Lima), you will typically be safe from the rain.

That being said, packing a rain jacket is essential! I love REI’s Trailmaid rain jacket because they are lightweight, breathable, and waterproof, not just water-resistant. It’s great in a hot and humid climate because it keeps you cool and dry, and then the coat itself dries quickly as well.

You can get this jacket in men’s or women’s, and don’t worry, they have multiple colors, so you don’t have to match your partner. Check out the men’s REI Trailmade rain jacket or the women’s Trailmade jacket here! 

16. Down Jacket

If you take anything away from this blog, it should be this: pack layers! Peru’s climate is diverse, and if you’re traveling around the country, you will experience a wide range of climates. It will get cold in the higher-altitude regions, such as the Andes, and in cities like Cusco, Puno, and Huaraz.

Packing a warm jacket is a must, but you don’t want a bulky option. That’s why we love down jackets. For women, this Outdoor Research down jacket from REI is a fantastic choice. It’s lightweight in your pack, and has waterproof and windproof elements so it holds up in the weather. I found it to be super warm and well-insulated, too!

For men, we recommend this REI down jacket. It is also wind and water-resistant, and is lightweight and packable. I was shocked to see how little this jacket packs down to! While it has a light fill power, it’s still very warm and well insulated. Best of all, it’s quite affordable but high quality!

17. Headlamp

We were surprised by how often we used our headlamps all around Peru! Initially, we bought these headlamps for our treks and camping, and they were perfect for that. But we also started using them while in the cities, as the streets aren’t always the best lit!

So while we head out for dinner, we toss the headlamps into our bag and can use them to walk home after it gets dark. Sure, we can always use the flashlight on our phones, but the headlamps are a lot brighter and easier to use (and cool looking, right?)

We got this two-pack of Energizer headlamps, which is perfect if you’re traveling as a couple or with a friend. But, if you’re traveling solo (or just need one headlamp), I loved this Black Diamond headlamp. It is lightweight, bright, and the batteries last forever. 

18. Anti-theft bag

Unfortunately, petty theft and pickpocketing are problems in Peru. Especially in cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, you really want to use caution and street smarts so you don’t lose your valuables.

We’ve been pick-pocketed while traveling before, and as frustrating as losing personal belongings or money is, it’s more of the violating feeling that stays with you. 

So to combat any chance of that, we picked up an anti-theft crossbody bag. I was skeptical at first, but we haven’t had any pickpocketing or issues since! It’s small enough to be packable and great for a day bag, and it fits a surprising amount of things. Best of all, it keeps your passport, wallet, keys, and other belongings safe!

19. Dry Bag

A dry bag is one of those items that you think twice about packing, but then are so thankful you have it! It’s handy if you’re traveling during Peru’s rainy season, are exploring national parks or the Amazon, and helpful for treks as it’s a secure place to store your belongings.

We use these lightweight dry bags because they don’t take up much space but are perfect for protecting clothes, cameras, or snacks on excursions. They are especially useful for rafting or whale watching trips where splashes are unavoidable.

20. Neck Pillow

If you haven’t started traveling with a neck pillow yet, you’re missing out. 

I was against them for a while, simply for the space they take up, but once I started flying with this neck pillow, I was hooked. Now I can’t travel without it! One of the reasons I love this one is that it’s super packable and can roll up into a small ball. Once I’m off the flight, I can ball it up and put it in my backpack, and I don’t have to worry about it anymore. 

21. Binoculars

We were on the fence about packing binoculars for our first trip to Peru, and ultimately, we were glad we did. Peru is full of wildlife – Macaws, toucans, howler monkeys, anacondas, llamas, and more. So seeing them as close as possible is the best way to experience the wildlife!

This specific pair is small and lightweight, so you can bring them along in your day pack, as you never know what you’ll see in the trees! I was surprised at the quality for the price, too. You don’t have to overspend to get a good pair of binoculars. 

22. Portable Charger

A portable charger quickly became one of my must-haves when traveling, no matter where I’m going! 

There are many days when we would leave in the morning and be out for the entire day. So while I started with a full charge, by the time we spent a few hours exploring a city, looking up lunch restaurants, and getting directions to the meeting point for an afternoon tour, my phone would be nearly dead. 

We love this portable charger specifically because it holds a charge forever – I usually don’t even have to charge it on a trip! It also has multiple types of cords, so we can charge Dan’s Android, my iPhone, and even our GoPro while we’re out and about. Plus, it’s not ultra-heavy or bulky, so it doesn’t take up too much space in a bag. 

23. E-SIM

You’ve probably used SIM cards while traveling, but have you converted to an eSIM yet? Dan and I have recently been won over by the ease of eSIMs – instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. 

We’ve tried out a handful of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve decided that Airalo is our favorite! It is really easy to set up (even my mom figured it out on her own!), and still very affordable. You can choose the amount of data and the length of the plan, and your phone will easily connect to a local network. 

Plus, you won’t have to try and get a SIM card at the airport, or be worried about being overcharged by a vendor (which happens a lot!). This is definitely the most straightforward way to go!

New users can get 15% off by using the code DTRAVEL15, and returning users can get 10% off their next eSIM by using DTRAVEL10 when you follow our link below!

24. Packing Cubes

Staying organized while packing is a game-changer, especially if you plan on visiting multiple destinations in Peru. If you’re looking for a way to keep everything neat and tidy, TSA-friendly, and stress-free so you can focus on your adventure (and not laundry day), packing cubes are one of my favorite organizational tools.  

These packing cubes are a lifesaver for keeping everything organized—clean clothes, swimwear, hiking outfits, and even a separate cube for laundry after sweaty days. They make unpacking and repacking so much easier, especially if you’re changing locations often. If you’ve never used packing cubes before, they will change your perspective on packing altogether! 

25. Kindle

My Kindle e-book is another non-negotiable when packing! It’s the perfect on-the-go entertainment and a great alternative to doom-scrolling, or to use when you’re out of service.

I know, many people prefer a real book over an e-book, but I actually started reading more when I got my Kindle. It’s easier to hold than a book, and it stores my entire library on the device, so I’m never without my next read. Honestly, for travel, it’s the way to go!

26. Hiking Shoe

If you’re planning to do a bit of hiking but not a ton, a hiking shoe is a good middle-of-the-road option. These are great if day hikes are on your itinerary, as hiking shoes offer support and protection without being too bulky and heavy in your suitcase. You’ll also need closed-toe shoes for ziplining, ATV adventures, or horseback rides.

For women, I recommend these Keen hiking shoes. Keen is, hands down, one of the best brands of adventure shoes out there. I like this pair because they are waterproof and have great traction, but also have a mesh lining, so if they do get wet, they dry out quickly. Alternatively, these Solomon hiking shoes are lighter weight, made with Gore-Tex, and are another one of my top brands for outdoor gear.

For men, these Merrell Moab hiking shoes are a fantastic option. They are great for hiking, offering traction and support. But they also work well if you need them as a daily shoe as you travel around Peru. They are comfy enough to go strolling through the shops, then hiking on a trail in the afternoon. 

P.S. If you’re worried about buying hiking shoes online, before you can try them on – REI has a fantastic return policy, so it’s easy to send them back if they don’t fit just right!

27. Hiking Boot

If you’re planning on doing some serious hiking in Peru (as many travelers are), you might want to upgrade to hiking boots. These offer more protection and ankle support, can keep your feet free from debris and water, and are great for longer, strenuous trails.

I have a pair of these Solomon Gore-Tex hiking boots, and they are one of the best hiking boots I’ve owned! They aren’t too heavy, so after miles of hiking, my legs don’t feel as tired, and they offer all the support I need.

Dan has had his pair of Keen hiking boots for years, trekking through Patagonia, the Canadian Rockies, and here on the Inca Trail. A good pair of hiking boots is worth the investment and will last you years! Plus, it’s always fun taking my boots on various international adventures, knowing all the beautiful places we’ve been together.

Extra Travel Items We Love

Thanks for reading!

Peru is one of those places where it pays to be prepared. From personal experience, nothing can make your trip less than amazing by packing incorrectly! But don’t worry, we’ve traveled all over the country, and these items are always in my bag. So stick to our recommendations, and you will be ready for any adventure!

Before you take off, check out our other South America travel blogs. Besides packing, we love sharing our favorite travel tips and tricks to make your vacation as memorable as possible. I’ll leave a few blogs below to inspire your next destination and help you plan the perfect trip to Peru – cheers!

The Best 10-Day Peru Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

4 BEST Salkantay Trek Tours in Peru (Which One to Choose!)

Where to Stay in Cusco, Peru: 4 Areas & Hotels