Peru Packing List: What to Pack for Cusco, Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Peru is one of those places that somehow manages to be beautiful, intense, and unpredictable all in the same hour. One minute you’re walking the cobblestone streets of Cusco, the next you’re exploring the Sacred Valley’s sweeping mountain views and ancient Incan sites, and then the clouds roll in like they have a personal vendetta. From high-altitude mornings in Cusco to long days at Machu Picchu and scenic drives through the Sacred Valley, the weather and terrain can shift quickly. If you’re heading to Peru for adventure and plan on visiting Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley, here’s my go-to Peru packing list. It’s what I actually used, what I wish I’d packed sooner, and the essentials that made travel days a whole lot easier.
(Also: Cusco is hilly. Not “cute little incline” hilly. Everything-is-uphill hilly.)
Shoes + Socks (Because Your Feet Are Doing the Most)
1
Comfy Hiking Boots
If you’re doing any kind of trekking or uneven walking, bring boots you can trust. I bought these and found I didn’t even need to break them in (which feels illegal in the hiking world). I love that they’re more barefoot style so you can really get a good grip walking everywhere. With some comfy socks, they’re beyond comfy.
Good walking shoes are an absolute must. We landed in Cusco and everything is hilly. I mean… everything. I used my NoBull shoes and they were comfy and perfect for all-day walking. I like No-Bull for walking.
Wool socks are one of those “trust me” items. I bought a few different ones: some with extra cushion for rocky days and some that were more bare for lighter walking. I love Smartwool. They’re worth every penny and super breathable!
Bags That Make Travel Days Easier (and Less Annoying)
4
Heavy-Duty Carry-On
You may have to haul your luggage around the country to get onto trains, planes, and automobiles. Personally, I could not imagine doing checked luggage on this trip. There is no space in some areas, and some trains say you’re not allowed to even bring bags that large.If possible, consolidate down to a hard carry-on suitcase + a backpack. My go-to travel bag is Beis.
I LOVE my Beis crossbody bag. I used it the whole trip and had several people asking me about it. It even has a little water bottle holder that was crucial for Machu Picchu and longer days out. It holds sunglasses, money, cards, tissues, lip gloss, passport… basically everything that’s a must.
This is also a must-have. To keep luggage easy, I bought a Beis backpack, and it meets the standards of Machu Picchu and other areas that have restrictions on bag sizes. It holds everything you’ll need: rain jacket, rain pants, a snack, water bottle (inside the bag), tissues, money, etc. Plus it slips onto the handle of your carry-on bag, which makes airport life so much smoother.
Bring something comfy to walk around in and something you can layer other pants over if needed. You’ll want easy pieces that move with you, especially on long days.
There are hot springs it seems like everywhere. Probably not, but there are a few, and I wish I had packed my suit in my backpack for day trips so I could dip into those random water spots without feeling unprepared.
Also a must. I purchased women’s Columbia black rain pants that are super easy to slip on and off as needed throughout the day. You don’t realize how much you’ll love them until you’re standing there watching the sky turn dark again.
Baseball cap: Who knew the sun was that much closer lol! We all burned the first day arriving just doing a small walk around Cusco. We quickly went out and bought baseball caps. Learn from us and pack one.
Peruvian cash: Most places take credit cards, but they’ll charge you extra for their taxes. When you can, pay cash everywhere. It’s one of those simple things that makes the day-to-day smoother.
Quick Packing Strategy (What I’d Do Again)
If you want the simplest setup for Peru travel logistics:
Carry-on hard suitcase + backpack
Crossbody for daily walking and must-have items
Shoes you trust (Cusco will humble you)
Rain gear + sun protection (yes, both)
Cash + adapter so you’re not paying “oops” fees all trip
Peru is absolutely worth the trip. It’s also the kind of place where packing well makes everything easier: longer walks feel doable, rainy afternoons don’t ruin your plans, and you’re not buying emergency items on day one because the sun surprised you like it’s never shined before.
If you’re building your own Peru packing list, start with the essentials above and you’ll be in a really good place. Comfortable shoes, smart layers, rain protection, and the right bags are the difference between “this is amazing!” and “why am I damp and cranky in a beautiful country?”
