35 Top Peru Packing List Items for 2023 + What to Wear & NOT To Bring

What to Pack for Peru – 35 Essentials

• 1. Water Bottle with Built-In Filter

  Altitude, sun exposure, hiking, and sightseeing will all dehydrate you faster than you’re used to, and with Peru’s lack of potable tap water, it’s a wise idea to carry drinkable water with you at all times. This water bottle has a built-in filter that removes pathogens, viruses (like hepatitis A), bacteria (like E. Coli and dysentery), and other harmful chemicals like chlorine that can make water taste awful. In times when you’re in the middle of nowhere, don’t gamble with your water supply or health.

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• 2. Peru Power Adapter

  If you are coming from Europe, you’ll need an adapter. If you are coming from the States, most of your devices will already work in Peru, but we still recommend all travelers carry a universal adapter. This is our go-to because it works in 100+ countries, can run on dual voltage, and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee. We feel safer knowing we’re using a quality adapter with foreign outlets instead of one that could fry our electronics.

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• 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

  Being able to browse the internet and access GPS while traveling is certainly a necessity, but searching on public networks can also pose security risks. I’ve personally had my credit card information stolen as a result of connecting to wifi at my Airbnb, and it’s not a risk I’ll take again. A virtual private network like NordVPN adds an extra layer of security encryption to your data to protect your passwords, credit card information, and private data. It’s easy to use – activated with the touch of a button on your phone screen – and reasonably priced.

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• 4. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

  A quick-dry towel is always useful to have, no matter the trip. In Peru, you will find it handy at the beach, hiking, and visiting famous architectural sites. Not only does it dry much quicker than a normal towel, but it’s also extremely lightweight and does a great job of repelling odors and sand. Use it to dry off after swimming, wipe away sweat, as a picnic blanket, seat cover, and more!

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• 5. Convertible Quick-Dry Pants

  Between the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, climbing Rainbow Mountain, trekking through the Amazonian jungle, and the highlands of Huaraz – you will need a good pair of hiking pants. These are stellar because they have a silver fiber lining that regulates your temperature (in case you’re traveling between the snowy mountains or humid forests), and you can unzip the pant legs if they get muddy, hot, or wet. Here’s a similar pair for men.

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• 6. Travel Insurance for Peru

  Peru is not the safest country to visit (especially if you’re traveling solo). Medical emergencies, urgent trips back home, and theft are among the more nerve-wracking events that can all be helped with a reliable travel insurance plan. In cases like these and when traveling far from home, the best offense against problems is a good defense. We use Faye for their great customizable plans – it’s more affordable than you’d think. They also have unique add-ons like ‘cancel for any reason’ and ‘adventure and extreme sports,’ which may be very practical for Peru!

  Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

• 7. Neck Wallet

  With any international trip, you’ll want to keep your passport close. This neck wallet will allow you to do just that and to keep your cash, cards, and ID docs safely hidden under your shirt. Essentials are still accessible when needed, and you’ll be able to walk through crowds and use public transportation without worrying about pickpockets stealing your most valuable items.

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• 8. Deet-Free Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

  Never underestimate the annoyance factor of mosquitos and sand flies. Not to mention, there is still some risk of malaria or other mosquito-related illnesses in this region. You may not see many mosquitos during the dry season or in the highlands, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Protect yourself with these bracelets that are deet-free, family-friendly, and wearable (way easier than respraying chemical fumes all day).

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• 9. Windproof Travel Umbrella

  The rains are frequent in Peru, so an umbrella is pertinent. This one is windproof and weighs less than 1 pound, making it ideal for travel and checked luggage. Keep in mind that the wet parts of the year are between January and April, and highlands will encounter rain more frequently. Umbrellas are not allowed on the route to Machu Picchu due to safety for other tourists on narrow paths, but you will need this most anywhere else.

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• 10. Activated Charcoal

  Especially when you’re in a country where climate, altitude, new foods, and risky water can all disrupt your digestion, you’ll want to have a backup plan. Activated charcoal absorbs toxins in your system and helps you get back to normal function so that you don’t have to miss out on prime travel days.

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• 11. Packing Cubes

  Peru requires a bit more gear than many other places due to the kinds of activities it offers. When packing, it’s nice to have a system of organization so that they’ll fit neatly into your suitcase without having to struggle to close it. These multi-size, zippered organizers make packing a breeze and even allow you to switch items from your suitcase to your day bag and back without having to unpack them.

  Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

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• 12. Luggage Locks

  Unfortunately, there is a decent risk of pickpocketing and petty theft in this part of the world. While it’s improved significantly in the last decades, you’ll still want to lead with caution by adding luggage locks to your checked bag, backpack, and any lockers you may need. This set is TSA-approved. We never travel without a couple of sets.

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• 13. Female Urination Device

  My wife swears by this contraption. Ladies will undoubtedly find many of the bathroom facilities in Peru to be a challenge. If there’s a toilet, it often won’t have a seat… Add that to the fact that many travelers to Peru end up hiking and camping, and you may wish you had a better solution for when you need to “go.” That’s where this odd but ingenious device comes in! It makes it much easier for women to use any toilet facilities (or lack thereof).

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• 14. Cooling Towel

  When spending the day at the beach or trekking along the Amazon Basin, beat the heat with these cooling towels. They are small enough to easily fit in your daypack so you can bring them along on any excursion. They’re also super easy to use – simply wet the towel, wring it out, and instantly enjoy the cooling effects on your neck, shoulders, or face.

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• 15. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

  The hike to Machu Picchu is a 4-day journey that is 26 miles long and reaches almost 14,000 feet in elevation. You won’t find a lot of outlets or charging stations in the middle of nowhere, and the best of Peru lies in its expansive nature. Whether you’re climbing the Inca ruins or boating along the coast of Lima, having a backup charger on-hand can be an actual lifesaver. This one has rescued us on occasions when we needed to call for a ride or get help in an emergency.

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• 16. Fleece Jacket

  Peru has a reputation for having a warm South American climate. Still, temps can drop to freezing, Lima is much colder than you might expect! You’ll want to find major solace in layers! This fleece jacket is great for layering because it’s a windbreaker made of quick-drying material and compact enough to carry with you in your daybag. Consider adding a full-blown rain jacket in case of surprise downpours.

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• 17. Discounted Tickets to Peru Attractions

  Your vacation is the sum of your experiences. Book an incredible itinerary with Get Your Guide, our favorite site for booking directly with local tour guides to ensure the most authentic excursions.
  You must see one of the 7 Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu, whether it’s on a 6-day guided tour through the Sacred Valley, a moderate 4-day tour, or an expedited 1-day trip (or if you want to guide yourself with a simple entry ticket).

  If near Cusco, we loved Rainbow Mountain, river rafting, and getting a closer look at the alien-like Inca Ruins! In Lima, you can take a city and catacombs tour or day trips to see the penguins of Ballestas Islands. We didn’t have time to see the lines of Nazca, but hear it’s an incredible sight to behold!

  See all Peru attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

• 18. Waterproof Hiking Shoes

  Hiking, walking, and exploring will take quite a toll on you if you don’t have the proper footwear. Quality hiking shoes are key, and they should be broken in before you travel with them, or you’ll run the risk of painful blisters or foot cramping. These shoes are particularly comfortable right off the bat and are well-reviewed for their water resistance, quality, and affordable price.

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• 19. Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

  These brilliant water and sand-resistant shoe bags are perfect for anytime you need to separate your wet, snowy, sandy, or muddy footwear from sparkly clean items. Not to mention, public bathrooms and city streets can add a little funk to your kicks that you may not want to pack directly in your suitcase. We bring these on every hike and water excursion!

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• 20. Jet Lag Relief

  Direct flights to Peru are around 7 hours, but if you don’t have a nonstop flight it could be 13+ hours! Travel days can be exhausting, but we were so thankful to have these jet lag relief supplements for our last international flight. We noticed a real difference and felt way less fatigued than usual on travel days. They’re made with chamomile which feels way smoother than similar products that use caffeine, uppers, or stimulants.

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• 21. Backpack or Daybag

  A reliable daybag will save you a lot of hassle. This lightweight travel backpack is great for hiking and shopping alike and will give you plenty of room for everything you need to keep with you on a daily basis, like your rain jacket or poncho, your water bottle, your guidebook, and your phone if you plan to bring one. Add a backpack rain cover and you’re good to go!

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• 22. Travel Toilet Paper

  Toilets are far less well-stocked in Peru than they are in the States, and that’s when you even have a toilet. Whether you’re peeing in the wild brush or squatting over a hole in the ground, these individual packets of toilet paper will offer a convenient and hygienic way to go, saving you sanitary stress and litter guilt since they are certifiably flushable.

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• 23. Wool Headband

  Peru’s weather can be unpredictable, so you will be glad to have a reliable headband as a subtle means to stay warm and look cute. This one has a beautiful wool pattern that creates a cozy look. It’s also moisture-wicking and can be worn as a headband, scarf, or gaiter over the face in heavy winds.

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• 24. Lightweight Collapsible Hiking Poles

  Hiking poles are not the most obvious thing to pack for a getaway, but in a destination like Peru, they will be a huge support. During difficult hikes, they will help you to conserve energy and maintain your footing. We love that this set comes with attachments for rock and pavement, mud and sand, or snow and ice, offering serious fall prevention regardless of the terrain.

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• 25. Altitude Medicine

  You may find yourself out of breath due to the scenic landscapes, but it may also be the altitude! Attitude sickness, known as ‘soroche’ in Peru, can feel like a fierce hangover and seriously slow you down. With low levels of oxygen, Peru’s average altitude is 5000+ feet above sea level. This will make the air thinner and lead to your body not functioning as well. We’ve found these altitude supplements to be a game-changer for safely getting closer to the clouds. We add a couple drops of liquid chlorophyll to our water and boom, this duo works every time.

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• 26. Insulated Gloves

  The snowy mountaintops like Huascaran and Marcahuasi are epic to hike but will be uncomfortable without quality gloves. These are the best mittens I’ve found because they’re water-resistent and insulated yet still breathable with a polyester lining. Gloves will help you feel much more comfortable in the mountains, along the windy coastlines, and in areas like Puno Lake Titicaca that maintain a steady temperature of around 7°C/45°F.

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• 27. Waterproof Breathable Socks

  If you’ve hiked with soaking wet, freezing feet – you know it’s one of the worst feelings. Pack smarter with waterproof athletic socks that keep your toes toasty and dry. This pair has moisture-absorbant fibers with a breathable material that will prevent blisters. With a 3-layer knit design, they even promote evaporation so water can disappear quickly.

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• 28. Hand & Feet Warmers

  Hand and foot warmers are an absolute revelation! Slip them into your pockets, gloves, socks, or shoes to enjoy 10+ hours of sustained heat insulating you from the inside out. You’ll appreciate these in chilly areas, but since many areas of Peru are not very cold (Lima, Mancora, the Amazon, etc.), these could even warrant spending a bit less on a pair of gloves or snow shoes since warmers will help compensate for any lost heat.

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• 29. Dry Bag

  Learn from our mistakes – it’s pretty tragic to see your backpack sloshing around a boat’s wet deck or floating down the river. Then watching your cash deteriorate into a crumbly ball of nothingness. Ya, we’ve been there! Whether you’re kayaking down the Cusipata or boating around the Islas Ballestas – a dry bag is a wise precaution for holding your cash, phone, clothes, or anything else you’d prefer to keep dry. Thank us later.

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• 30. Headlamp

  Rather than wandering dangerously in the dark at night, bring a headlamp. This will absolutely be required if doing difficult hikes, such as to Machu Picchu or areas without street lights around. My wife went into the jungle once to use the restroom and ended up in a bed of spiders! Use a headlamp to ensure you can clearly see your surroundings and safely get around in dim places.

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• 31. Motion Sickness Patches

  If cars, planes, and trains make you nauseous – don’t risk it in areas like Cusco, Puno, and Lake Titicaca where motion and altitude sickness are common. Punta Callán is one of the windiest roads we’ve ever seen, and long boat tours or whale-watching excursions can leave you feeling seriously seasick. These patches make you less drowsy than pill forms like Dramamine, and we’ve found they can also help with altitude sickness.

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• 32. Paracord Emergency Gear

  Peru is a wild place. Come prepared for possible emergencies with this paracord set. It’s an amazing little bracelet with an alert whistle, compass, fire starter, knife, and 12-foot paracord rope. Made with military-grade supplies, it’s the best toolkit for an affordable price that we’ve found. The LED light flasher to signal your location is a nice touch!

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• 33. Hanging Toiletry Bag

  You never know what kind of bathroom situation you may discover while in Peru… A squat hole, a camping site, a luxury hotel, a boat, who knows! Regardless of the abode, this hanging toiletry bag will be an excellent addition to your arsenal. It has 4 giant pockets that hang vertically to hold all of your products. Simply hook it to any door, hook, or pole and it will unfold to expose tons of storage in a shelf-like system.

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• 34. Lightweight Binoculars with Phone Adapter

  Peru’s vast panoramas and sacred valleys make it one of the best places in the world for sightseeing. With sweeping views and top-notch wildlife, you’ll need a pair of binoculars to take it all in. Keep an eye out for jungle cats, bears, and birds in the Amazon Jungle, as well as humpbacks and dolphins along the coast. You could invest in a professional pair like Vanguard Spirit, but these are excellent at a fraction of the price. They also connect to your phone for easy sharing.

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• 35. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

  While some places offer tacky souvenirs and gifts you would NOT want to take back to loved ones… Peru is not one of those places. With alpaca clothing, vibrant textiles, Peruvian chocolate, pisco liquor, spices, and more – you’ll want a precautionary “just in case” bag for those spontaneous shopping trips to the mercados. We like this one because it counts as your personal item on the flight home and fits perfectly under your plane seat. Muy chévere! (Very cool!)

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