MileHacker Logo
Packing Essentials

Packing Essentials

Amazon Basin, Peru

Daytime Clothing

Opt for lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying fabrics. Cotton or linen are comfortable. Light colors help deflect sun and heat.

Fabric Recommendations

  • Loose-fitting shirts and shorts made of cotton.
  • Clothing with UV protection for outdoor activities.
  • A lightweight rain jacket or poncho for sudden downpours.

Evening & Insect Protection

Evenings bring cooler air but increased insect activity. Long sleeves and pants become important for comfort and bite protection.

Cover-Up Clothing

  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
  • Insect-repellent treated clothing for added defense.
  • High socks to wear with boots during jungle excursions.

Footwear for the Amazon

Waterproof Boots

Essential for jungle treks, muddy trails, and protection from bites.

Ankle or knee-high.

Comfortable Sandals

For relaxing at your lodge or walking around dry city areas.

Easy to slip on/off.

Closed-Toe Shoes

For city exploration and travel days, offering more coverage.

Sneakers or lightweight hiking shoes.

Travel Documents

Your Must-Haves

Carry essential travel documents in both physical and digital formats. Keep copies separate from the originals. This safeguards against loss or theft.

  • Valid passport and any required visas.
  • Flight and tour booking confirmations.
  • Copies of all identification documents.
  • Travel insurance policy details.
  • Emergency contact list (physical and digital).
  • Some local currency for immediate needs.
  • Debit and credit cards; notify your bank of travel.
  • Digital copies of all documents on a cloud service.

Technology and Electronics

Staying Connected

Internet access can be limited outside Iquitos city. Local SIM cards or eSIMs offer connectivity in urban areas. Be ready for intermittent service in remote jungle lodges.

Connectivity Choices

  • Local SIM card purchase for mobile data.
  • Wi-Fi in city hotels and some lodges.
  • Airalo for convenient eSIM data packages.

Power Needs

Peru uses Type A and B electrical outlets, with a voltage of 220V and a frequency of 60Hz. Pack universal adapters and voltage converters if your devices do not support dual voltage.

Charging Essentials

  • Universal travel adapter for outlets.
  • High-capacity portable power bank for devices.
  • A small power strip for multiple devices.

Digital Security

Cloud Backup

Regularly back up photos and important documents to a cloud service.

VPN Usage

Use a Virtual Private Network (NordVPN, ExpressVPN) for secure public Wi-Fi connections.

Device Protection

Set strong passwords or biometric locks on all your electronic devices.

Health and Personal Items

Personal Care

Consider bringing travel-sized, biodegradable toiletries. This helps reduce environmental impact, especially when staying in eco-lodges near sensitive ecosystems.

Eco-Conscious Choices

  • Biodegradable soap and shampoo.
  • Bamboo toothbrush and solid toothpaste.
  • A compact, quick-drying towel.

Sun & Insect Defense

The Amazon region has strong sun exposure and abundant insects. Protect yourself from both with appropriate gear and products.

Protection Essentials

  • High-SPF sunscreen, ideally reef-safe.
  • Effective insect repellent (with DEET or Picaridin).
  • Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.

Travel Comfort

Motion Sickness

  • Anti-nausea medication for boat journeys.
  • Ginger candies or chews for natural relief.
  • Acupressure wristbands.

Hydration Aids

  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Electrolyte tablets or powder.
  • Personal water filter (e.g., LifeStraw).

Activity-Specific Gear

Wildlife Spotting

To maximize animal viewing opportunities from a distance, binoculars are . A camera with a good zoom lens helps capture moments.

  • Compact binoculars
  • Camera with telephoto lens
  • Waterproof camera bag
  • Field guide for Amazonian species

Jungle Trekking

For jungle walks, consider a small daypack, a headlamp, and quick-drying attire. Long pants and sleeves protect against vegetation and insects.

  • Small daypack
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Moisture-wicking hiking socks
  • Quick-drying, lightweight towel

River Activities

Engaging in river activities calls for swimwear, a dry bag to protect electronics, and possibly a waterproof phone case.

  • Swimsuit or quick-drying shorts
  • Waterproof dry bag for electronics
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Biodegradable insect repellent

Gear Acquisition Decisions

Renting Equipment

  • Reduces baggage weight and bulk.
  • No long-term storage or maintenance needs.
  • Often comes with local expertise on suitable gear.
  • Convenient for infrequent use or specific trips.

Purchasing Equipment

  • Higher initial cost, but economical for frequent use.
  • Guarantees personal fit and comfort.
  • Reusable for future adventures.
  • Specific features or quality preferences are met.

Other Essentials

Comfort Items

Small additions significantly enhance comfort during long travel days or quiet evenings in the jungle.

Personal Comfort

  • A lightweight book or journal.
  • Noise-cancelling headphones for flights and boats.
  • Eye drops for dusty or humid conditions.
  • Travel pen and small notebook.

Safety Extras

Beyond standard first aid, a few additional items contribute to your well-being in the Amazonian environment.

Enhanced Security

  • Hand sanitizer for hygiene.
  • Small but powerful flashlight.
  • Compact mosquito net (if your accommodation lacks one).
  • Printed maps or offline maps on a device.

Responsible Travel Kit

Reusable Bottle

Minimize plastic waste.

Reusable Bag

Reduce plastic bag use.

Biodegradable Toiletries

Protect fragile ecosystems.

Portable Solar Charger

Sustainable power for devices.

Iquitos Specifics

River and Jungle Expeditions

  • Small portable fan for extreme heat.
  • Compact umbrella for sun and rain.
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap with neck flap.

City Exploration

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Personal insect repellent.
  • Offline city map or navigation app.

Smart Packing

Roll your clothes tightly to maximize space in your luggage and minimize wrinkles. Consider using packing cubes to keep items organized and separate clean from dirty.

For valuable items, use a small, lockable daypack or anti-theft bag within your main luggage. Keep liquids in sealed plastic bags to prevent spills.