One of the most popular countries to visit in South America, Peru truly is an extraordinary nation. We can guarantee that you'll in love as soon as you visit.
With an alluring culture, incredible landscapes, mouth-watering foods and a whole host of unique experiences, you’re bound to have an unforgettable time here!
Surfing in Lima. Jungle Trekking through the Amazon. Sandboarding in Huacachina. Getting close up with Condors in the Andes. There truly is something for everyone here as there are so many incredible places to visit in Peru.
So you’ve decided you want to travel to this amazing country? Awesome! It’s now time to look at what you’ll need to pack, and also to consider the different climates, geography and the time of year you’ll be visiting.
In this ultimate packing list, we’ll cover everything you need to know about packing for Peru.
We’ll also give our top guidance on how to have an unforgettable experience in this unique South American nation!
Before traveling anywhere, make sure you have your travel insurance in place. We recommend SafetyWing.
Why?
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Before packing your bags and traveling to Peru, there are some important things we first need to cover.
From getting to know the country’s diverse geography to the different climates and seasons, this stuff could make or break your trip!
Let’s now explore the main things you need to know when planning your Peru itinerary.
If you ever ask anyone what they imagine Peru to be like, usually you’ll hear answers like “it’s all mountains” or “I’m sure Peru is mostly jungle, right?”.
The truth is, Peru is one of the most diverse countries in the Western Hemisphere, and has many different terrains.
Many are also surprised to learn just how big Peru is - especially when looking on a map.
The 20th biggest country in the world, it takes over 50 hours to drive from the north to south. This will quickly become evident when taking buses around the country!
Since the geography can vary so much, it’s important to pack well according to where you’ll be visiting.
First there’s the Andes range that cuts right through the nation, which is home to some extremely tall mountains and volcanoes. These are usually located at high altitudes and are very cold, requiring extra layers.
On the other side of the mountains, we have the dense Amazon jungle. The largest of its kind in the world, you’re going to need light, breathable clothes and a quality rainproof jacket when heading here.
Then finally there’s the coast that runs down the west of Peru, which can range from tropical beaches to arid deserts. You’ll mostly want lighter clothes in these regions.
Since Peru is so diverse, we believe it’s a must-include on any South America itinerary!
Here's some more information about the geography of Peru...
Peru is located quite close to the equator, and usually most countries around here have quite predictable climates. This helps us when planning, since Peru’s usual patterns are easy to remember. To check the annual weather in specific locations, we recommend using Weather Spark, which has many useful tools and statistics.
The typical dry season runs from May until September, which coincides with Peru’s winter season.
In most destinations, this means both a drop in rainfall, as well as lower temperatures than those of the wet season.
The dry season is usually a better time to visit places like the Amazon (where there is less rain), as well as Peru’s beaches (where the temperatures are not so overbearing). This season is the most popular with tourists heading to Peru.
The wet season tends to pick up around October or November, and lasts until April.
These months usually bring more rainfall (and we say usually, since some areas have their own rules which we’ll look at later) as well as warmer temperatures.
The wet season is better for those heading to Lima and the South of Peru (where the warmer temperatures make some of these usually freezing places more tolerable).
This time of year is also less popular, and as a result, it tends to be a cheaper time to visit (except for the busy Christmas and New Years Holidays).
Here's some more information about the seasons in Peru...
Next we have the two shoulder seasons. These are September until November (Spring) as well as April until June (Autumn).
The shoulder seasons are some of the best months to visit Peru.
They tend to be the best overall when it comes to low levels of rainfall (even despite the different microclimates), and also as temperatures are not as bitter as they usually are in the depths of winter.
September until November is arguably the most popular time of the year for tourists to visit Peru.
Whilst this is good in bringing a more festive spirit to destinations such as Cusco (and for making quick friends in hostels), it does however result in higher prices, as well as less available spaces for those wanting a spot on the popular Inca Trail.
April until June is less visited, and we feel it's the overall best time to visit Peru. Most of the country has less rainfall, as well as having warmer temperatures too. Also, as it’s right at the end of the wet season, you’ll see lots of lush vegetation around too which make for better photos.
You’ll also have less crowds, so there’ll be no need for elbows and shoving to get that perfect shot of Machu Picchu!
This guide by Lonely Planet gives further useful information on the best times to visit Peru.
It’s important to note that Peru also has as many as 90 micro-climates, which would be hard for us to completely cover here!
Just make sure to investigate where you'll be heading - this guide on Peru's climate is very comprehensive and useful.
Here are some of the most notable micro-climates:
Having a good, quality bag is one of the most important considerations before heading off on a trip to Peru.
Below we’ll take a look at how to choose the right size, the importance of a daypack and more!
The first step is to choose your main backpack, which is going to hold the majority of your things inside.
Today on the market, you’ll find a wide range of different size backpacks. These usually start from around 40 liters, and can vary up to 70-80 liters.
Now whilst you may think the biggest backpack of all will be the best, it’s usually not the most practical (which is especially the case for a backpacker).
If it’s your first backpacking trip, then it’s very easy to overpack too (yes we’ve all been there!).
Here are some disadvantages of a larger than life backpack:
We recommend going for a backpack that’s between 50-60 liters. We’ve found this is just right through our own experience.
When sitting down to pack, it can sometimes be daunting when you have everything laid out, and wondering how you’re going to bring it all.
The reality is that life on the road is much different, and some of the things you pack you may not even use!
This is where it’s important to separate everything you want to take into two piles; Needs and Wants. This will quickly help you to work out what’s essential, and therefore worth bringing. Most items left after this process are better left at home.
As well as getting the right size, it’s also critical to choose a quality brand when it comes to backpacks.
Today on the market, there are tons to choose from, although there are a few brands that are usually the most popular.
We recommend going with Osprey. They have been our go-to for years, and they design some of the most spacious and durable backpacks out there.
Here are our top 2 recommendations:
Once you’ve picked your main bag, it’s now time to get a quality day bag.
Why? Your main bag is going to be what you travel with, and also where the majority of your things will be stored.
However, your daypack is just as important when backpacking Peru, since this is what you’ll be using day to day on your travels.
Now when it comes to choosing a day pack, it’s a different game when compared with your main backpack.
The day pack can be as large as you want, since these can always be taken as a carry-on on flights.
It’s also useful if heading on a long trek or hike to fit everything you’ll need.
Here are some other advantages of bringing a day pack:
Of course, you still need to compare before buying the first day bag you see!
One of the most important characteristics of a quality day bag is how spacious it is inside. This doesn’t just necessarily mean bulk size, but also compartments, zippers, and also being able to organize things well inside too.
As well as this, again, going for the right brand is key.
Since day packs are going to be used much more than your normal backpack, they need to be robust and able to handle all the elements.
This is why we also go with Osprey when it comes to day bags, who design these with great care.
Here are our top 2 recommendations:
Whether you decide to go with roll-on luggage or a backpack is really up to you, and depends on what kind of trip you’re planning.
If you’re not interested in heading around the entire country, and want to visit just one or two places, then this may be a better option.
Roll-on luggage does also give you more space overall too, which is better for families or those looking for a more traditional holiday experience.
There are some disadvantages to keep in mind though when it comes to choosing roll-on luggage:
Having said that, we can’t argue with the fact that roll-on luggage is much more comfortable, since you won’t have to carry the weight of all your things every time you change destination!
If you’re thinking of picking roll-on luggage, then take a look at our guide on Luxury Carry-Ons, which outlines the most important things to look out for.
When it comes to picking a good brand for roll-on luggage, we always go with Horizn. They make both durable and spacious cases, which you can learn more about in our full review guide.
As we’ve seen, there are many important considerations to weigh-up before buying the first bag you see.
For your main bag, you’ll want to choose a reputable brand, as well as a bag that is both spacious and versatile.
Having said that, we wouldn’t go any bigger than 60 liters, since you won’t need that much space (don’t worry, you’ll still be able to fit in all the souvenirs you pick up too!).
For your day bag, picking something that is comfortable is your main priority here. Remember that it’s going to be on you more or less 24/7, so for this reason you’ll also want a decent size too.
Regardless of what you end up buying, and this also applies if going for roll-on luggage, remember this;
Peru has pretty much everything you may need for your trip already there.
So when packing, you really don’t need to cram those fourth pairs of shoes in (we’ll look at some important packing tips later in this guide).
Once we’ve selected a good quality bag, it’s now time to start packing!
Before we get those ponchos and alpaca-printed jumpers in, we need to start with the essentials.
This includes everything from your passport to travel documents (basically the things that you really don’t want to lose).
So, let's start to go through this Peru travel packing list...
Peru is a mixed bag when it comes to its varying climates (like we already saw in the geography section).
Since there’s many different biomes and destinations, it’s important you know what each one entails (since the last thing you’ll want is to head to Cusco in just light clothes…).
What you’ll need will be somewhat similar to what we highlighted in our Europe Packing List.
Starting with the guys, let’s explore what you’ll need take to Peru:
Next up we have the ladies.
As well as considering Peru’s distinct geography, we need to remember that part of traveling is the spontaneity of it all.
This means you won’t always have everything you’ll need on you, which is where Peru’s local markets will come in super handy.
Here you can buy lots of warmer layers for a very cheap price (and they’re also great quality too) which is a great excuse to layer up in those alpaca garments.
Whilst you’ll want layers for colder environments, it’s important to remember that Peru also has lots of hot areas. For this reason, you’ll also need to pack similar things like you would if you were heading to Mexico.
Here are the clothes you'll want to include on your packing list for Peru:
Peru is one of the cheapest countries you can visit in South America.
This means laundry can be really cheap (as much as just $1.5 for a kilo washed and ironed), so we would recommend using laundrettes for this reason.
Otherwise, you can also wash your own clothes to further save, where you’d just need to pick up some detergent and also find a place for them to air-dry well enough.
You can also ask your accommodation to wash your clothes on those extra lazy days.
Next up on our list is one that is usually glossed over, but is just as important.
Whilst you may not even need to use it (fingers crossed), having a versatile first-aid kit is very important in the event of any accidents occurring whilst in Peru.
Of course if you have a serious emergency then you should get yourself to a hospital ASAP, but for smaller troubles, the below will be very useful to include in your first-aid kit:
If you don’t yet own a travel first aid kit, then here’s a good option to buy.
It contains the majority of what you need and you can then just add in any other items you want to take with you.
Plus, it’s small enough to tuck away in your backpack and not take up much space.
Toiletries are another must-pack when traveling in Peru, and here we’ll go through the most important items.
It’s important to note here not to bring too much when leaving home, since you can easily replenish these whilst on the road.
Another important thing to keep on top of whilst traveling is how you manage your money.
As already mentioned, you’ll want to bring multiple cards in the event your primary one is either lost or stolen.
You should keep these in separate places (just like we do) when traveling for extra safety.
By far, the best bank for foreigners to use and withdraw from in Peru is BCP.
Some of the branches don’t even charge a withdrawal fee, and you’ll find them throughout the country.
Other good banks to use include BBVA and Scotiabank.
As we all know, withdrawing internationally on regular credit cards can slowly rack up ATM fees.
The other disadvantage is having to carry lots of cash around with you too.
This is why it’s a good idea to use travel cards, which is another one of our own travel hacks that we always use.
Monzo and Revolut are the two best out there, and don’t charge fees for withdrawals (as well as offering a solid exchange rate).
To learn more about the pros of using Monzo and Revolut (and also comparing between them), have a read through our in-depth guide.
First up, these items are the most important, and you’ll want to protect them by any means necessary.
This means keeping them locked away safely in your apartment when out and about, and also keeping them in your day bag (which is hopefully on you) when traveling.
Here’s some of the most important:
Next up we have the gadgets and any other important electrical items you may want to bring.
Since Peru is one of the most visually stunning countries in Latin America, you’re going to want a good camera when here!
First of all we have the DSLR. It’s a better alternative to your phone’s camera (well unless you have the absolute newest iPhone), and you’ll be able to snap some truly unforgettable shots when here. Even more so when heading to Cusco and the Andes! Our recommended DSLR is the A7iii. When it comes to choosing a good lens, we recommend a Wide Angle (for landscapes) as well as a Standard (for those picturesque street shots).
Another alternative to the action cameras listed, a handheld video camera is also a great item to bring. It’s better for documenting the more daily occurrences, and they tend to be cheaper too.
Peru is full of enthralling adventures. From Sandboarding in Huacachina to Ziplining through the Amazon, you’ll want to catch your best moments in high definition. GoPros can be quite pricey, so we’ve found some really awesome action cameras that serve as great alternatives.
This is the ultimate way to catch Peru and all its stunning scenery in its true glory. As with most countries, you’ll want to read up on how to register your drone as well as any other guidelines. There are different rules depending on if your drone is over or under 2kg in weight. You should also know that drones are prohibited in Machu Picchu, as well as some other sites. There are many different drones you can choose from, however the DJI Mini 3 takes the cherry for us. You can compare other awesome drones here...
The next part of our Peru travel checklist is one of the most important.
From protecting your health to keeping your things safe, we’ll explore the most important items on our health and safety list.
Now let’s look at some of the other things that may come in handy when heading to Peru:
Just as important as what you’ll bring with you, is what you decide to leave at home.
Not only can you save space and weight, but some things may even cause you unnecessary hassle.
Let’s go through some of these no-go’s when packing for Peru:
Now it’s time for that final check!
We’ve already stuffed in all the essentials for your Peru trip.
However, some of these items below will either come in handy in certain situations, or make your travel experience much smoother..
Be sure to read our ultimate travel packing list here for more ideas.
The old saying of “what you own, ends up owning you” couldn’t be any more applicable than here!
Simply put, when traveling you want to worry less about what you could lose, and spend more time enjoying yourself and getting to know Peru.
As well as this, you’ll save up space for any handicrafts or souvenirs you pick up along the way.
I always shoot for a bag packed at 3/4 full when leaving home.
As we’ve already seen, Peru’s geography is extremely varied.
In the Andes you’re going to need warm layers, whilst the beaches require breathable, light clothes.
And then there’s the rain too, so having that quality waterproof jacket will come in very handy!
Sometimes you’ll forget one or two things which is fine, since you can always pick up what you need once you’re in Peru.
Having briefly touched on this in the last section, this is where getting some packing cubes can be really handy.
Keeping your things organized saves time, as there’s less ironing or rummaging around to do.
It also helps you as you won’t “lose” items that fall to the bottom, which you forget about and then go out and buy more of what you already had!
Even when using packing cubes, the most rigorous folding and tight packing can only go so far, since things are bound to move around inside.
Choosing wrinkle-proof clothes will save you time, as there’s less need to iron and you can simply put on your clothes and head out straight away.
Some useful wrinkle-proof clothes to look into getting are shirts, which tend to be the bane of bag stuffing.
As we mentioned earlier in this article, it’s best to have a document holder with all important things inside, such as your passport, insurance and other necessary papers.
It’s best to keep this in your daypack, which is always on you whilst traveling around.
You need to treat this like your very own baby, since losing this will cause you a world of unneeded problems.
So there you have it - the ultimate Peru packing list!
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored everything you may need when heading to this special Latin American nation.
We’ve also looked at what kind of bags you need, as well as what not to bring too.
Now, it's time to start planning your trip and there are plenty of awesome places to visit!
Aside from the obvious big-hitters, leave some time aside to visit Lake Titicaca, explore the Sacred Valley, and hike up Rainbow Mountain.
If you have any questions, or perhaps some of your own tips about packing for Peru, then feel free to share them below!
We've also got a variety of other travel packing lists on our website for other popular countries/states including Thailand, Ireland, and Alaska.
For help planning the rest of your Peru adventure, here are some other guides you might find useful:
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