What to pack for Peru - Bags
Unless the friends you make on your gap year are very strong, very stupid or hopelessly in love with you, they're not going to carry your bag for you. So, pack light. A rucksack is by far the easiest way of transporting your belongings around. Dry stuff is better than wet stuff, and lighter - look out for rucksacks with a waterproof cover.
What to pack for Peru - Documents
The little book with a hideous photo of you in it is unfortunately the only way you're going to get into Peru. Keep your passport and the rest of your essential documents somewhere safe and waterproof. To cover your back in the WCS (worse case scenario), keep a photocopy of your passport in every bag you take, and leave one in a safe place at home. Or, consider setting up your own online safe.
What to pack for Peru - Clothes Dry clean only is a definite no-no, as is anything you want to keep pristine. That said, don't take rags, either - they'll lose you respect. Whether you go to the coast, the jungle or the mountains will affect the clothes you pack. As a general rule, layers are better than a thick jumper, jeans soak up gallons of water and are difficult to dry and trousers with bits that zip on and off are a godsend. A hat will be a barrier between you and sunstroke.
What to pack for Peru - Shoes Flip-flops aren't much use for serious sightseeing - outdoor shops now sell walking sandals that will be more comfortable. If you're trekking, you might want to consider walking shoes rather than walking boots to minimise sweating.
What to pack for Peru - Towel If you can bear to part with the luxury, hand towels take up less room than bath towels. Keep it wrapped in a plastic bag to avoid damp underwear.
What to pack for Peru - Camera
Given the choice, most travellers would lose their clothes rather than their camera. Trousers you can replace, shots of the Amazon you can't. Treat it like you do your passport, and make sure it's accompanied by memory cards, batteries, a charger, film and if you want to download photos mid-trip, your USB cable.
What to pack for Peru - Toiletries The time to worry about your appearance is before a night out at uni. Take enough of the basics to keep you healthy and clean and leave the make-up, hair straighteners, aftershave etc. at home.
What to pack for Peru - First aid kit Most people swan through their gap year without even a paper cut. However, it pays to have the essentials in case of a headache, hangover, splinter, blister etc.
What to pack for Peru - Guide books Pack it, study it, consult it but don't worship it. Guide books are there to guide you, not dictate your trip. And any vital information (bus times, for example) should be double-checked once you're there.
What to pack for Peru - Pen and something to write on Put down your thoughts or scribble off a postcard. Or have a game of good ol' noughts and crosses to pass the time.
What to pack for Peru - Entertainment If you're a book lover, you might find yourself reaching for one when you board a bus. Or your MP3 player if you like music. A pack of cards can fill empty hours too.
What to pack for Peru - Adapter You'll need at least one plug adapter, as there are three different electrical systems in Peru.
Other bits and bobs to pack for Peru
A padlock
Putting a padlock on your locker will make it less attractive to opportunist thieves.
Safety pins
Double protect your valuables by pinning them to the inside of your bag or pocket. Good things to have in most situations.
Duvet-less duvet cover
Wrap yourself in your own bedding and get out of having to rent sheets.
Flip-flops Slip them on to shower in - the floors can get messy after 15 guests use them!
Antibacterial gel
Always wash your hands after you go to the toilet, as the phrase goes - or use some magic gel.
Torch
Your dorm mates will not appreciate you turning the light on if they're asleep when you get back to the hostel. And it might stop you tripping over your adapter.
Learn hablar español in record time, with experienced teachers, small classes and lots of opportunities to practise. Activities such as tours of Cusco, cooking lessons, dance classes and parties make it even more fun.
Make some of Cusco’s poorest children smile again. Help in the classrooms, with occupational activities, with teaching the children to prepare meals, and with fundraising. Most of all, show them love and affection.
Project Video Now Online
A massively rewarding project that involves helping wash, feed and look after mentally and physically handicapped children, and, if you wish, getting involved in their lessons. Great whether you have care experience or just want to make them smile.
A great way to enjoy the Machu Picchu experience while staying away from the crowds, trekking along a unique alternative route towards this incredible destination.
Take a unique and memorable trip around Peru – trek to Machu Picchu, learn the lingo and dance the dance, haggle at the markets, visit an alpaca farm, work with local children, sail around Lake Titicaca and more.
Learn how to identify and photograph dolphins, penguins and other sea creatures. You’ll be working towards making dolphin watching a tourist attraction, and thus persuading fishermen not to kill them for food.
Get totally immersed in Peruvian culture as you’re taken to Lima, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu and Huascaran National Park in the Andes. You’ll also study Spanish, stay with a Quechua India family and more besides.
Spend 5 months or more on an amazing gap year in Latin America. This programme provides all the structure you need, with lots of activities including Spanish lessons, volunteering with wildlife or disadvantaged street children.
Project Video Now Online
