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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Lake Titicaca, Peru

Dry Season Layers May-Oct

Expect cold nights, chilly mornings, and warm, sunny days. Pack moisture-wicking thermal Base layers (long-sleeve top and bottoms). Merino wool or synthetic materials serve as suitable choices.

Mid and Outer Layers

  • A Fleece jacket or sweater provides warmth.
  • A warm, waterproof or water-resistant Down jacket or insulated Parka helps for evenings and early mornings.
  • A windproof outer shell brings benefit, as strong winds are common.

Wet Season Layers Nov-Apr

Expect milder nights, cooler days, and rain showers. Lighter moisture-wicking base layers work well. Fleece or a sweater still provide warmth.

Outer Layers & Accessories

Footwear Recommendations

Walking & Hiking

Sturdy, comfortable Walking shoes or light hiking boots work well for uneven streets and island excursions like Taquile.

Break them in before your trip.

Wet Conditions

Waterproof shoes offer assistance during the wet season. Wool or synthetic Hiking socks help with warmth and moisture-wicking.

Prevent blisters with good socks.

Relaxation

Sandals or flip-flops work well for relaxing in your accommodation.

Not for general walking around Puno.

Essential Documents

Document Checklist

Keep important documents secure and accessible. Consider digital and physical copies.

  • Original passport (6 months validity beyond stay) & photocopies.
  • Retain the TAM (Andean Migration Card) issued upon arrival.
  • Travel Insurance policy information (policy number, emergency contacts).
  • Vaccination Records & health documentation (e.g., doctor's note for prescriptions).
  • Printed & Digital copies of flight, hotel, and tour reservations.
  • Emergency Contact Information (local embassy, family/friends, local emergency numbers).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for discounts (check specific attraction rules).
  • International Driving Permit (if driving elsewhere in Peru).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Peru uses 220V, 60Hz with plug types A, B, C. Type A (two flat parallel pins) and C (two round pins) are most common. Bring a universal travel Power adapter that supports 220V.

Mobile Phone & SIM Cards

  • Most modern smartphones are compatible. Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use.
  • SIM Cards are easily purchased upon arrival (Claro, Movistar, Entel, Bitel). Entel often has good coverage.
  • Portable chargers help for long tours or limited outlets.

Camera & Apps

A camera that performs well in varied lighting conditions comes in handy. Extra batteries are helpful, as cold weather drains them faster. Bring adequate Memory cards. A Tripod for low-light or lake shots works well.

Recommended Apps

  • Maps.me or Google Maps: Download offline maps for Puno.
  • Google Translate: Download Spanish for offline use.
  • WhatsApp: Widely used for communication with tour operators and hotels.

Data Backup & Security

Backup Your Data

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an External hard drive for photos and important documents.

VPN Services

NordVPN or ExpressVPN enhance security on public Wi-Fi.

RFID Protection

An RFID-blocking wallet protects credit cards and passports.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Prepare a personal health kit to manage common travel ailments and altitude effects. A destination-specific First aid kit is important.

Essentials to Pack

  • Pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen for altitude headaches), Imodium.
  • Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, topical antibiotic cream.
  • Oral rehydration salts (ORS) for dehydration. Blister treatment (Moleskin).

Medications & Hygiene

Pack enough prescription medications for your entire trip. Carry original packaging with prescription labels. A doctor's note for controlled substances is prudent.

Additional Items

Altitude & Sun Protection

Altitude Remedies

  • Consult doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox).
  • Coca leaves or tea offer mild relief for symptoms.
  • Stay well hydrated.

Sun & Insect Protection

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

A Daypack for daily excursions aids. Hiking poles (optional but helpful on Taquile) provide stability.

  • Comfortable hiking boots.
  • Layered clothing.
  • Water bottle.
  • Snacks.

Photography Equipment

Extra lenses and a Lens cleaning kit come in handy. A protective Camera bag aids against dust and light rain.

  • Extra batteries.
  • Adequate memory cards.
  • Tripod for low-light shots.
  • Lens cloth.

Homestay Comforts

A good quality warm Sleeping bag liner is useful if you plan an overnight homestay on Amantani Island, as conditions can be basic and cold.

  • Warm layers for sleeping.
  • Headlamp or flashlight.
  • Small towel.
  • Personal toiletries.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Consider Bringing

  • Personal trekking poles if you use them often.
  • Specialized dietary items (gluten-free, specific spices).
  • Specific prescription medications.
  • High-quality outdoor gear (specific brands of warm jackets, Waterproof pants).

Consider Renting/Buying Locally

  • Basic trekking poles for casual use.
  • Camping gear is typically unnecessary unless for specific treks.
  • Most toiletries are available, but specific brands might be harder to find.
  • Basic clothing for unforeseen needs.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small items greatly enhance comfort and security.

Travel Aids

Puno Specifics & Reusables

These items are especially pertinent to the Puno climate and ethical travel.

Climate-Specific Items

  • Sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) due to high altitude.
  • Warm layers due to cold temperatures, especially at night.
  • A Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
  • Reusable utensils/straw for street food, if preferred.

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Filter Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and souvenirs.

Reusable Utensils

For street food and takeaways.

Energy-Saving Habits

Unplug chargers, turn off lights.

Items Difficult to Find Locally

Specialty Medications

  • Specific prescription medications.
  • Specialty dietary items (e.g., specific gluten-free products, rare spices).
  • Allergy-specific products if you have severe allergies.

High-Quality Gear

  • High-quality outdoor gear (e.g., specific brands of warm jackets).
  • Specific Waterproof pants or rain gear.
  • Specialized children's items or baby products.

Packing Pro Tips

Layering clothing is the golden rule for Puno due to its dynamic climate. Pack items that you can easily add or remove.

Keep essential documents secure and accessible, with both physical and digital backups. Prioritize health and safety items, especially for altitude. Affiliate links for products like Amazon, Nordace, B&H Photo can help your preparations.