Packing Tips
Light and Layers – In addition to packing light and planning on wearing layers you might want to bring a travel umbrella and a foldable rain poncho.
Temperature swings – You can expect anything from heavy rain to dry heat. Temperatures are often quite different in the day and in the night. It can be hot at times and quite cold at others, so it’s good to have some clothes for both kinds of weather. Layers… think layers.
Swimwear – Bring clothes for swimming if you plan on visiting the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
Size of your bags – Airlines and trains have their own bag size and weight restrictions. Please note – if you are arriving in Lima and going on to Cusco – you will have to collect your bags in Lima and re-check them at the nearby domestic counter for your flight to Cusco. (the domestic counters are just adjacent to the international ones – a quick 1 minute walk)
You will have to carry your own bags on the tour so it is good to pack lightly. For our excursion to Ollyantaytambo and Machu Picchu – you will need to bring a smaller suitcase / duffel bag or backpack just for those few days and leave your larger bag at the hotel.
Some of the streets are steep, uneven and cobbled which can make your rolling luggage behave a bit wonky.
Machu Picchu bag limits – *** For the train to Machu Picchu there is a limit of 11 lb per person and 62 inches (total) for the size of your bag.
For entrance into Machu Picchu the limit is 40x35x20cm / 16 x 14 x 8 inches. Probably the size of a normal daypack
Sun Block: Due to the high altitudes and being close to the equator, the sun in Peru is very strong and proper care must be taken to avoid unpleasant sun burns and discomfort. Light and loose, long sleeved clothing works well, along with a good, protective hat and sunglasses.
Bring sun block lotion. Natural varieties are the safest options for your health.
Tips on Toiletries and personal items
Even though toiletries are readily available, likely your favorites are nowhere to be found – so it is a good idea to have travel sized versions of your own personal care items. Typical personal care items to consider bringing include:
* Shampoo
* Conditioner
* Soap
* Toothbrush
* Toothpaste
* Floss
* Deodorant
* Razor and shaving gear
* Comb and/or brush
* Feminine hygiene products
Bugs – while not a big issue on your trip (and honestly, we rarely have encountered them in this part of Peru) you may see mosquitoes, flies and other insects. If you want to bring some sort of repellent – we recommend a natural variety like essential oil mixtures (many recipes found online) or a natural product like Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent Picaridin (it is amazing!) it comes in lotion and spray and it is totally natural. Also products like tea tree oil, citronella, musk oil or peppermint oil can come in handy as well.
Personal Medications:
If you are needing any specific medication – be sure to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
Other things you might want to bring:
* Reusable water bottle (Please bring!)
* Travel sized tissue packets
* Wet wipes and/or alcohol (not triclosan) based hand wipes or sanitizers
* Ziploc bags – you will find many reasons to use them
* A small flashlight – in case of any power failures and for personal safety
* A notebook or journal, and pen to record any information
* A cell phone or other small device to act as a travel alarm
* Some bandaids, or a small first-aid kit
* And of course a photo and/or video camera with proper battery or charging equipment
* Electrical converter (to change the power from 110 to 220) and an adapter that changes the prongs of your American plugs into ones that work in Peru. (there are many all-in-one models to be found on the internet)
There are also a few items which you should not bring with you:
* Valuables, such as jewelry
* Unnecessary electronic devices
* Pocket knives or any weapon-like items
* Any illegal substances