Complete Packing List for Your Peru Adventure

Here’s a complete guide to the essential items you should pack for your trip to Peru everything you need to make your adventure comfortable and worry free.

Why a Smart Packing List Matters in Peru

Peru’s geography spans coast, Andean highlands, and jungle, each with its own climate and demands.

Weather in the Andes is highly variable even in one day you can experience sun, wind, rain, cold, and heat.

Carrying too much weight is a liability on hikes; efficient layering and gear selection can make the difference between enjoying or struggling through the trip.

Core Packing Categories and Items

Below is a master list organized by purpose. You’ll want to tailor quantities based on trip length, region, and whether you have laundry options.

Documents and Money

Essentials

• Passport + photocopies / digital backups
• Visa (if required)
• Travel insurance (with evacuation/trekking coverage)
• Driver’s license / ID copies
• Credit cards, local cash (Peruvian soles) in small bills

Notes and  Tips

Keep copies separate from originals, and store digital backusps.

Clothing (layering is key)

Essential

Base / moisture wicking layers: 2-3 short-sleeve shirts, 1-2 long-sleeve shirts

Mid layers: fleece jacket or down vest

Outer layer: wateproof / windproof Shell

Bottoms: hiking pants + quick dry casual pants

Underwear and socks: merino or synthetic (include extra socks)

Thermals / base long underwear: top and bottom for cold night use

Warm jacket: insulated / down for very cold evenings

Wam hat / beanie, gloves (liner + insulating), neck gaiter sun hat / brimmed cap / buff / UV protection clothing

Comfortable city / casual clothes: one nicer utfit for evenings or in Lima

Notes and  Tips

In the Andes, midday sun is strong look for UV-protection fabrics. In jungle regions, long sleeves help against insects.

Footwear and Accessories

Essentials

• Sturdy waterproof hiking boots (broken in)
• Trail shoes or walking shoes for lighter days
• Flip-flops or camp shoes
• Gaiters (optional for muddy trails)
• Trekking poles (collapsible, rubber tips)
• Daypack (25–35 L) + rain cover
• Pack liner / dry sacks for gear separation
• Microfiber quick-dry towel

Notes and Tips

Use gaiters and pack cover to protect gear in rain.

 

Sleep and Camping (if trekking / overnight stays)

The most essential ítems for camping are sleeping bags (rated for at least –5 °C or lower depending on rute), warm clothing for cold environments, and a sleeping mat or mattress

Notes and Tips

Confirm with your tour whether they supply gear so you don’t overpack.

Publication date: 2025-10-06