When planning a vacation, the first thing you look for is airfare or a bus ticket to secure transportation, as well as researching the main tourist attractions you’ll want to visit. However, one of the most complex tasks comes days before the trip: what to pack. If you’re about to visit Peru and don’t want to make a mistake when packing your suitcase, here’s a quick guide on what you can’t miss to avoid complications with the weather.
Packing is often considered one of the most complicated activities because you end up packing clothes you won’t use and just take up space, or you forget important items that can ruin the experience or force you to spend more money, putting you over your budget.
That’s why it’s vital to know what to take and what not to take when you arrive at a new destination, even more so if you’re arriving in Peru and want to visit the beaches, Machu Picchu, or head to the jungle.
What Should I Pack in My Travel Suitcase?
Each destination in Peru has its own unique climate and needs, and for that, we must pack well. Before thinking about clothing, shoes, or accessories, it’s vital that you set aside a specific space for essentials like your ID, foreigner’s card, or passport. These should be kept separate, along with tickets, reservations, and travel insurance.
Pack According to the Region
Peru’s diversity can be a challenge when packing, this is the reason why Perou Voyage Tours, recommends doing some research on the climate and packing accordingly.
For coastal cities like Lima, Paracas, or Máncora, cool, light, and versatile clothing, sunglasses, a hat, a swimsuit, and sandals are recommended, not to mention a light sweater for the colder evenings. For mountain destinations like Cusco, Arequipa, or Huaraz, it’s essential to have thermal clothing, a windbreaker, hiking shoes, and gloves, as well as a thermos for hot drinks to help you counteract the cold temperatures.
Finally, if you’re traveling to jungle cities like Iquitos, Tarapoto, or Madre de Dios, you should pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to avoid bites, a raincoat, a hat, and water-resistant shoes.
Pack According to the Activity
For trekking and adventure activities, you’ll definitely need an ergonomic backpack or one comfortable enough to hold your thermal clothing, jackets, snacks, canned goods and drinks, as well as your camping gear.
To explore the city, make sure to wear comfortable footwear; hiking boots aren’t necessary, but hiking shoes are, along with a secure bag to store your essential documents and a small backpack. Exploring the jungle requires a little more preparation. The humidity, combined with the high temperatures, will require you to stay hydrated and light, so pack quick-drying clothing, toiletries, sunscreen, a hat, and water bottles in a lightweight bag.
It’s also essential to have toiletries, sunscreen, a good insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle on hand to stay hydrated throughout your trip.