Ultimate Inca Trail Packing List: Essential Machu Picchu Gear

So, you’ve booked your Inca Trail trek and now it’s time to figure out what to pack. What do you actually need to bring, and how much can you carry? Spoiler alert: probably far less than you think.

Most of your main luggage can stay safely in storage while you trek. The trick is knowing what belongs in your Inca Trail packing list, what your porters will carry, and what you need to keep in your daypack. From clothing and footwear to your Machu Picchu backpack and those easily forgotten essentials, this guide covers everything you really need – and nothing you don’t.

Whether you’re putting together a male or female Inca Trail packing list, wondering what to wear on the trail, or asking yourself, “Do I really need hiking boots for Machu Picchu?”, we’ve got you covered. And yes, you can leave the tent at home – your local porters will take care of that.

Read on to build your perfect Inca Trail packing list, so you can spend less time worrying about your backpack and more time enjoying the mountains of Peru.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. .

How Much Can I Pack for the Inca Trail?

Before you start packing for the classic Inca Trail, there’s one important thing to know: most of your luggage will stay in Cusco while you trek. Your tour operator or hotel can usually arrange secure storage, leaving you with just two bags for the trail.

Your first is your daypack, which you’ll carry yourself throughout the trek. The second is a larger bag, usually a duffel, provided by your trekking operator and carried by the porters. For a classic four-day Inca Trail trek, the porters will carry your camping gear, food and tent.

Most Inca trail operators allow around 7 kg (15 lb) in the porter-carried bag, although the exact allowance varies. Your sleeping bag will usually count toward this weight, so always check the details with your tour agency before you start packing.

Your daypack should contain the things you need during the day, such as water, snacks, rain gear, sun protection and a few personal essentials. Since you’ll carry it yourself for several days, pack as light as possible is key.

Where Should I Store My Luggage in Cusco?

Most of your luggage will stay in the city while you do the Inca Trail tour. You can usually leave it at your hotel or use luggage storage arranged by the tour companies.

Before your trek, check where your belongings will be stored, whether the location is secure, and whether they are covered by insurance. This is especially important if you’re leaving valuables such as electronics behind.

For extra peace of mind, you may prefer secure storage rather than simply leaving your bags in a shared hotel storage room. The last thing you want is to spend your trek worrying about your luggage!

How is the Weather on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail has two main seasons: dry and rainy. For the best chance of dry conditions on the trail and at Machu Picchu, May to September is generally the most popular time to trek.

That said, Peru’s weather varies greatly by region, so the rainy season doesn’t mean rain everywhere. And while the dry season offers more reliable hiking conditions, the rainy season has its own advantage: the mountains and valleys can look incredibly lush and green.

You can find out more about the weather in Peru in these posts on  the best times to trek in Peru. and when to visit Peru. One bonus of traveling during the rainy season is how gloriously green the wet weather can make the landscape look!

What’s the Best Time of the Year for the 4-Day Inca Trail?

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu varies from one individual to another. June, July and August are the driest months, but it can be quieter when trekking during the shoulder season. Which a lot of people prefer.

April, May, September and October are thus a good time to go. You may also find that it’s cheaper out of peak season, although you can expect more rain than during the driest months.

Everything You Need for Your Complete Inca Trail Packing List

Your Inca Trail adventure starts long before you reach Machu Picchu. It starts with your backpack. From the clothes you’ll need for changing mountain weather to the gear that keeps you comfortable on long hiking days, knowing what to bring – and what to leave behind – can make all the difference.

Here’s our practical Inca Trail packing list to help you get ready.

Passport

We know it sounds obvious, but people really do forget this number one Inca Trail essential. Your original passport is not only needed to enter Peru, but must also be shown at the official checkpoint at the start of the trail.

This helps authorities keep track of the number of trekkers, as access to the Inca Trail is strictly limited. So keep your passport somewhere safe and easily accessible on trekking day.

And there’s a little bonus: you can usually get your passport stamped at the checkpoint, making a fun souvenir of your Inca Trail adventure.

Inca Trail Clothes

Next up: what to wear on the Inca Trail. From comfortable hiking clothes to the right shoes for the trail, here’s our list with clothing to stay comfortable as the weather and terrain change along the way.

Warm Clothes

We recommend bringing a waterproof jacket, another layer such as a fleece, a merino wool scarf, gloves and a knitted winter hat like a beanie. Thermal clothing such as a base layer is also something to add to your list of clothes for the Inca Trail. You may need this at night. It can get bitterly cold in Peru at high altitudes.

Hiking Trousers

Quick drying hiking pants are ideal for the Inca Trail, as they won’t weigh you down for so long even after getting soaked.

Sun Hat

Sunscreen alone is not enough to protect you from the intense UV rays! You’ll be hit by at high altitude, so you’ll definitely need a sun hat. We recommend packing one with a strap.

Headband

We swear by using a broad headband to protect cold ears from the chilly, biting winds.

Beanie Hat

A thermal beanie can really help stop heat being lost from the top of your head – especially for those with thinning hair.

A Long Scarf

A long scarf is a versatile piece that you can wrap around your neck for warmth, or use to protect you from the wind.

Gloves

Insulating your hands and fingers well by wearing thermal gloves can also help keep your whole body warm.

Warm Socks

It’s a good idea to bring along one extra pair of warm hiking socks on the trail as well as the pair you’re wearing when you set off. (Plus, you can use them on your hands or feet on cold nights!)

Layers, Layers, and More Layers

Taking plenty of hiking layers means you can go from summer to winter wear as quick as a flash.

A Rainproof, Windproof Shell – Rain Jacket or Rain Poncho

You can either take a lightweight packable jacket that’s easy to store and carry, or take a  waterproof poncho along with you. Disposable ones can be purchased for about $1 in Cusco, but a reusable one is far more eco-friendly.

Sunglasses

What, you really need rain gear and sunglasses, at the same time? Believe us – it really is a requirement for the Inca trail! Remember those UV rays we referred to when mentioning sun hats?

Swimsuit

Yes, you did read that right! This is for soaking in the hot springs of Machu Picchu town at the end of the trek! By this time you’ll really need both the rest and the cleansing effect of the water.

Adequate Footwear

Do you need hiking boots for the Inca Trail? Yes, you really do! You need to pack good-quality, well broken-in waterproof trekking boots to protect your feet on the trail. You can find out more on this below.

Don’t forget you’ll be wearing the boots, so you don’t need to carry them. You will also need lightweight flip flops or sandals for walking around the campsite, your hotel room in Cusco and at the hot springs. They will also give your feet a chance to breathe during the evenings.

Inca Trail Shoes: The Best Hiking Boots for the Inca Trail

If you take just one thing from this packing list for the Inca trail, make it this: your hiking shoes can make or break your trek.

Whatever you choose, break them in well before you arrive in Peru. Trust us – our co-founder’s brother learned this the hard way when new boots gave him such bad blisters that he ended up hiking the rest of his Nepal trek in flip-flops!

If you’re in the market for a new footwear with ankle support, it’s a good idea to invest in a pair of waterproof hiking boots. Brands like Columbia, Keen, Merrell, and Salomon make sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for such a long, uphill trek.

What do I need to back for my Inca Trail Hike Day Pack?

Your daypack is the bag you’ll carry yourself throughout all the sections of the Inca Trail, so keep it small, comfortable and practical. A daypack measuring around 40 cm x 40 cm or less is a good guideline, as larger bags may need to be left at the Machu Picchu entrance.

While the porters carry your larger 7 kg duffel bag, your daypack should hold everything you need during the day, including:

• Water and snacks
• Sunscreen, lip balm and a hat
• A warm layer for changing temperatures
• A lightweight rain jacket or poncho
• A small first aid kit
• Your camera, phone and power bank

And remember, those layers you start the morning wearing may end up in your backpack once the sun comes out, so leave some space.

A daypack with comfortable straps, good support and side pockets for water bottles can make a big difference. We’re fans of the Osprey range, which offers a variety of comfortable, practical hiking packs. Check out our blog post with a list of the best Machu Picchu backpacks.

Most importantly, don’t overpack. After your first day on the trail, you’ll quickly get a feel for what you actually need in your daypack.

Do I Need My Own Sleeping Bag?

If you already have a sleeping bag that’s warm enough for the overnight temperatures and packs down small, you can absolutely bring your own. It’s also reassuring to know you’re sleeping in your own clean bag!

Don’t have one? No problem. Most tour operators offer sleeping bags for hire, but check what’s included before your trek. If you enjoy camping or plan to do more trekking in the future, investing in a good sleeping bag can be worthwhile.

Rab down sleeping bags are excellent and highly recommended. It is lighter to carry while offering superior warmth.

Pharmacy, Toiletry and First Aid Items for the 4 Day Inca Trail

Don’t finalise that Inca Trail equipment list without considering these items. Some are just as essential to pack.

• Sunblock – eco-friendly sunscreens are our favourites.
• After-sun lotion or hydrating cream for your face and body.
• Insect repellent – 20% DEET formulas are the best option.
• Water purification tablets in case you collect water from streams, or a Steripen.
• Toilet paper and plastic Ziploc bags for packing used tissue in.
• Your own medical kit with any special meds that you need to take.
• Travel-size hand sanitizer or wipes.
• Lip balm – one containing protection from UV rays is best.
• Travel-size hand cream.
• Band aids, moleskin or second skin – essential if you do get blisters.
• Pain killers – paracetamol is a good, gentle all-rounder.
• Altitude sickness pills – many people really need these.
• Anti-diarrhea pills – ditto!
• A course of antibiotics – just in case, though you’ll need a prescription.
• Feminine hygiene products – it’s wise to take a small pack even if you don’t think you’ll need them.

Useful Extras for the Inca Trail

• Snacks – Biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, dried fruits and muesli are all good for an energy boost.
• Reusable Water Bottle: stay hydrated! –Metal or BPA-free plastic is best. You can also buy filter water bottles to purify the liquid as you drink it. This can result in water that tastes better, as well as being cleaner.
• Flashlight or Torch and Spare Batteries – Note that batteries are consumed more quickly during cold conditions. Or you could take a headlamp.
• Camera, camera cards with lots of space on them, plus extra batteries.
• Power bank – Solar powered if possible to keep your cell phone and camera charged while on the trail.
• Don’t forget to pack a small Towel or Sarong – A sarong can dry more quickly and is often lighter in weight.
• Bathing Suit – if you intend to swim in the hot springs.
• Cash in local currency and small denominations – sufficient for your final meal in Aguas Calientes plus any tips and souvenirs.
• Bring for the Inca Trail Trekking poles – Available for rent if you don’t have your own. Note – hiking poles with metal tips cannot be carried onto Machu Picchu. They should thus be left at your hotel before departure. Read more about the best hiking poles.
• Binoculars – Pick a lightweight pair.
• Travel Towel – A  can be very useful on the trail, and at the hot springs if you like to have your own.
• Consider packing body wipes – Trekking the Inca trail often means cold showers – or doing without altogether.  A pack or two of body wipes can make you feel far fresher when you don’t have the chance to wash properly.
• Packing cubes – Packing cubes are optional, but some travellers just can’t do without them.  On the plus side, they’ll help you stay organised, but do keep in mind that they’ll add to the overall weight, even if only by a little.
• Inflatable Travel Pillow – Sufficient support for your head and neck can make all the difference to sleep quality. Inflatable travel pillows can weigh very little, if you think this is a luxury you simply cannot do without.
• Spare Outfit – It may matter to you, or it might not, but if you want to look good in your Machu Picchu pictures, then you may like to take along a spare outfit for photographs.  For women, try a Columbia travel dress.  Men, meanwhile, might like to pack a more stylish Columbia shirt.

Cash

You won’t need a lot of money while trekking to Machu Picchu. Save your big spending for investing in the best hiking shoes for the Inca Trail. That said, you do need to take some cash with you. Local currency in small denominations is ideal.

There are a few little shops along the way.  You may want or really need to buy certain times from them. Tipping your porters and guides is also a good idea after they’ve led the way and/or carried your bag for days on end.

You might also want to enjoy a meal or well earned beer at Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco. 

What Will Make it Onto Your List for the Inca Trail Tour?

We hope this Inca Trail packing list has helped you figure out what to bring – and what to leave behind, either at your hotel in Cusco or at home.

Before you start packing, make sure you check your tour operator’s weight limit and whether your sleeping bag counts towards it. If you’re hiring one, find out how much it weighs so you can plan accordingly.

A little preparation goes a long way, so check these details with your tour operator before you start packing!

If you’d like to know more about hiking to Machu Picchu, check out our Inca Trail guide, covering key questions like which Inca trail is best for me, how to book the Inca trail, and what is it really like.

Planning a different trek? We also have a general guide on how to pack for a hike, plus a Machu Picchu packing list and a complete guide to preparing for your trip to Peru, including our Peru packing list