Carry-On Packing Guide for Lima, Peru (LIM)

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) is Peru's main international gateway and the hub for LATAM Peru. Most visitors arrive in Lima and then continue domestically to Cusco — the launch point for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Understanding carry-on limits across multiple airlines, altitude health needs, and Lima's unusual coastal climate will help you pack smart for this trip.

Airline Carry-On Allowances at LIM

SKY’s main bag is 55×35×25 cm and 10 kg. Check its inclusion in your fare and weigh the packed bag before departure.

The Cusco Connection: Altitude Matters

Cusco (CUZ) sits at approximately 3,400 metres above sea level — more than three times the altitude of the highest point in England. Altitude sickness (soroche) is common among arriving travelers and ranges from mild headaches and fatigue to more serious symptoms.

What to carry in your cabin bag:

• Acetazolamide (Diamox) — the standard prescription medication for altitude prevention; start 24–48 hours before arrival in Cusco
• Ibuprofen or paracetamol — for altitude headaches
• Electrolyte sachets — hydration helps acclimatise faster
• A light snack — nausea is common in the first day; something bland helps

Plan a rest day in Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu or hiking. The altitude effect diminishes significantly after 24–48 hours.

Lima: What to Expect and Pack For

Lima is a coastal desert city with an unusual climate for its latitude. Two distinct seasons affect how you pack:

Despite being at 12 degrees south latitude, Lima's Pacific coastal location means it rarely feels tropical. Miraflores and Barranco — the two most popular neighbourhoods for tourists — are on the clifftops above the Pacific and catch sea breezes year-round.

What to Pack for Lima and Cusco

Clothing (7–10 day trip, carry-on only):

• 4–5 tops in lightweight moisture-wicking fabrics
• 2 pairs of trousers (one smart-casual for Lima restaurants; one trekking for Cusco)
• 1 lightweight fleece or down jacket — Cusco mornings are cold even in summer
• Light rain jacket — doubles as a wind layer at altitude
• Comfortable walking shoes — Miraflores and Cusco both involve steep streets and cobblestones
• 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals for Lima beach areas (Miraflores waterfront)

Health and altitude kit (keep in carry-on):

• Altitude medication — prescription; arrange before departure
• SPF 50 sunscreen — UV radiation is intense at Cusco's altitude
• Lip balm with SPF — lips crack badly at altitude
• Insect repellent if venturing into the jungle (Aguas Calientes area)

Documents and tech:

• Passport and copies (keep in cabin bag at all times)
• Peru does not require a visa for most nationalities, but confirm before departure
• Travel adapter — Peru uses 220 V, standard US two-pin sockets (Type A)

The Machu Picchu Day Trip

The classic Machu Picchu route from Cusco:

1. Cusco to Aguas Calientes by train (1.5–3.5 hours depending on train type)
2. Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu citadel by bus (25 minutes)
3. Explore the site (allow 3–4 hours minimum)
4. Return the same way

For the day trip itself, leave your main carry-on bag at your Cusco hotel. Take only a small daypack with:

• Water (at least 1.5 litres)
• Snacks (food options at the site are expensive and limited)
• Rain jacket — weather changes fast
• Sunscreen and hat
• Entrance ticket (pre-book online; timed entries are now enforced)

No special equipment is needed for the standard Machu Picchu circuit. Sturdy walking shoes with grip are sufficient for most visitors.

Lima's Food Scene: Nothing to Pack

Lima is widely regarded as one of the world's top gastronomic destinations. Ceviche, causa, lomo saltado, and pisco sour are all best experienced fresh and locally. There is genuinely nothing worth packing food-wise for this destination — the culinary culture is a reason to arrive without a full bag.

A well-packed carry-on for a Lima and Cusco trip fits the clothing needs of two different climates, all altitude health essentials, and leaves room for the inevitable souvenir handicrafts you will find in the San Blas neighbourhood of Cusco.

Reviewed carrier allowance

Avianca includes a 45×35×20 cm personal item on every fare. One main bag up to 55×35×25 cm and 10 kg is included with international Light, Classic, Flex and Business; domestic Basic requires purchase. Check original conditions for Americas Light tickets bought before 27 January 2026. Business still has one main cabin bag.

Avianca carry-on guide

LATAM allowance for the booked fare

LATAM permits one main bag up to 55×35×25 cm and 12 kg in Economy, or 16 kg in Premium Economy/Business, plus a 45×35×20 cm personal item. Basic requires a main-bag purchase. Light is included in the English main page and Spanish tables, but the Portuguese international table lists an extra cost; confirm the issued fare. The personal-item FAQ gives 10 kg, while the Brazilian regional table gives 12 kg in Premium cabins.

LATAM cabin guide