OK, let’s say you have your itinerary and maybe even the plane ticket. Let’s make sure your packing list for Peru is ready so your adventure is maxed out to the awesome.
Packing Checklist for Peru- The Basics
Here’s a quick checklist of the basic things you should have in your backpack:
- Sunblock, sunglasses and hat
- Hand sanitizer
- First aid kit, if you’re traveling off the beaten path
- Water. At least always have a bottle of water on you, as even small villages tend to have a store that sell water. But consider tablets for water purification, straw filters, or related products for more sustainable options (or if you’ll be hiking for long stretches of time). I prefer boiling or filtering water to put in a hydration pack. After all, the less plastic we use, the easier it will be to conserve the amazing landscapes you’re going to see!
- Insect repellant
- Clothes for layering, as the temperature varies greatly and changes quickly in many areas of the country. Consult weather and climate information for the regions you’re visiting and pack accordingly.
- Plenty of cash, preferably Peruvian Nuevo Soles. ATMs and the use of dollars are rare in rural Peru.
- Travel Insurance
- Passport
Getting to Peru
Pretty much any trip to Peru has to start in Lima. That’s because other cities do not have major international airports.
Books to Read on Peru
If you don’t know any Spanish (don’t worry, I’ve been there!) bring a pocket language book with basic words and phrases.
The Rough Guide to Peru is a great resource when you’re on the ground and don’t have internet service.
Yo No Soy Tu Cholo is a great book in racism and Peruvian society. It opened my mind up to a whole different reality.
And my personal favorite is Turn Right at Machu Picchu. This is a hilarious travel book written by Mark Adams, an American writer who married a Peruvian (so I feel a personal connection!).
Movies To Watch for Peru
Mancora is a steamy, superficial yet entertaining movie that takes place in the Northern Peruvian beach town from which it takes its name.
And Peru is the scene for much of the Motorcycle Diaries, which described “Che” Guevarra’s trip through South America.
Recommendations for Altitude Sickness, Motion Sickness and Traveler’s Diarrhea
Coca tea does wonders for altitude sickness! But if you are worried about how your body will adjust, take over the counter altitude pills. You have to start taking them before arriving to your destination.
I try to go natural whenever possible, so I prefer ginger chews for motion sickness. If you’re even remotely prone to motion sickness, the public transportation in Peru will prove it.
An anti-diarrheal is good for most cases of traveler’s diarrhea. For severe cases consult a medical professional, as antibiotics may be necessary.
Conclusion
Last but not least: toilet paper. Always, always have extra toilet paper. It doesn’t have to be on your packing list for Peru, but have some extra on you.
Chances are 89% that someone in your group will have a bathroom-related misadventure while in Peru, especially if you go to a rural area. Trust me, it’s science.
So roll up some extra TP, put it in your back pocket, hold on to it, and hope you never need it :)
Let me know if this helps or if you have additional tips below! -Brad
