Peru packing list
- Peru packing means packing for two climates: humid Lima and cool, high Cusco mornings.
- Altitude sun is strong—hat, sunscreen, and broken-in shoes matter more than fashion boots.
- If a doctor prescribed altitude medication, pack it in the personal item, not checked luggage.
What you’ll likely need
A quick peek at must-bring and strongly suggested items for this trip. Your full checklist with checkboxes appears in a moment.
- Light jacket / layer
- Packable rain jacket
- Packable rain shell
- Pants / shorts
- Socks
- Sun hat (high UV at altitude)
- T-shirts / tops
- Underwear
- Warm mid-layer for high altitude
- Credit / debit cards
- Driver's license / ID
- Flight / booking confirmations
- Health insurance card
- Passport
- Visa / entry documents
- Phone
- Phone charger
- Plug adapter (A/C types common)
- Travel power adapter
- Reusable water bottle
- Prescription medications
- Deodorant
- High-SPF sunscreen + lip balm
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste (travel size)
- TSA liquids bag (100ml)
- Day backpack
- Packing cubes
- Sunglasses
- Broken-in walking shoes / light hikers
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Shoulder cover for churches / ruins visits
- Sleepwear
- Wicking hiking socks
- Emergency contact list
- Local currency / cash
- Travel insurance documents
- Headphones / earbuds
- Portable charger
- Reusable water bottle
- Altitude medication (if prescribed)
- Band-aids / plasters
- Pain reliever (ibuprofen)
Tips for this trip
- Layer instead of packing a heavy coat you will hate in the Sacred Valley afternoon heat.
- New hiking boots on the Inca Trail are a classic mistake—break them in at home.
- Use the international list for passport and adapter day, then print this checklist.
Related packing lists
Browse more destinations with the full packing tool on the homepage.
Common questions
What should I pack for Peru? +
Warm mid-layer, rain shell, sun hat, high-SPF sunscreen, walking shoes, reusable bottle, and modest cover for churches. Add hiking items if trails are booked.
How do I pack for Cusco altitude? +
Expect cold mornings and strong UV. Pack layers, hydrate, and ask a clinician about altitude medicine before you fly—this list is not medical advice.
Lima only or Machu Picchu too? +
Lima is milder; Cusco and the Sacred Valley need the warm layer. Turn on hiking if you have trail days.
Can I print this Peru packing checklist? +
Yes—Print / Save as PDF after you adjust days above.