Going abroad as an international volunteer is a life-changing experience full of adventure, culture, service, and lifelong memories. When you’re preparing to volunteer in Peru, having all the essentials on you ensures you can focus entirely on supporting underserved communities and making a meaningful impact. Having a clear list of packing items ready before you head to Lima or Cusco will help you stay organized, comfortable, and prepared for both clinic days and exploration of this beautiful South American country.

Essential Clothing & Gear

Lima’s coastal climate can vary from sunny afternoons to chilly, humid evenings, while higher elevations like Cusco require versatile layering for whatever the weather may bring you. Having a smart list of packing items for all your clothes will help you be prepared for any terrain:

• Clinic Attire: Bring comfortable scrubs or long pants and a t-shirt (especially if participating in medical Mobile Clinics), closed-toe sneakers, and a light jacket or fleece for cooler mornings. Medical gear like masks and gloves will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own if that is your preference.
• Daily Wear: Modest, light clothing including cotton t-shirts, jeans or durable pants, and a rain jacket or windbreaker.
• Footwear: Broken-in walking shoes or sturdy sneakers are vital for navigating uneven terrain and city pavement.
• Bags: A fanny pack or small purse are excellent for volunteer trips in Peru due to their compact size and easiness to keep on your person while you explore busy areas.

It’s important to remember that you are representing MEDLIFE in a professional manner while you work on projects in local communities. We advise Service Learning Trip participants to steer away from revealing or especially tight clothing while in the field.

Health, Hygiene & Daily Accessories

Staying healthy and safe while participating in our volunteer programs in Peru ensures you have a stress free time and never miss a day of powerful community service:

• Personal First-Aid & Toiletries: Travel-sized shampoo, soap, hand sanitizer, personal prescription medications, altitude sickness remedies, lip balm, and sunblock are all highly recommended.
• Daily Necessities: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, a small daypack or backpack for clinic materials, a universal power adapter (Peru uses 220V), and insect repellent.
• Travel Documents: Physical copies of your passport, travel insurance details, cash in local currency (Peruvian Soles), as well as emergency contact details, preferably printed in case your phone or computer is missing.

Pack Smart and Plan Ahead

To keep your time abroad smooth, consider keeping your primary medications, a change of clothes, and essential electronics in your carry-on bag in case of delayed or missing luggage. Additionally, leaving a bit of extra space in your main bag allows you to bring back local artisanal crafts, clothes, or souvenirs you may buy while in Peru.

Knowing and preparing your list of packing items in advance eliminates any last-minute stress, allowing you to land in South America fully focused on service, cultural exchange, and personal growth. With your bags properly packed, you are ready to make a lasting difference in Peru!

To learn how you can volunteer in a country like Peru, Ecuador, or Costa Rica with MEDLIFE, fill out the interest form below or download our free brochure today! Click here to learn more about our Service Learning Trips.