The Complete Packing List for Inca Trail and What to Wear to Machu Picchu

Planning on doing the Inca Trail? And wondering what to wear to Machu Picchu? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with this complete packing list for Inca Trail.

In this article, I’ll share with you a comprehensive Inca Trail packing list, along with my best tips based on my experience of doing this iconic hike. 

This Machu Picchu packing list tells you everything you need to know. Discover what essentials to bring with you and what to leave behind! Let’s get started!

Packing List for Inca Trail – Know Before You Go

Before setting off on this exciting adventure, I’m first going to delve into useful Inca Trail advice. Here are some invaluable hiking the Inca Trail tips to get you off to a good start. 

Luggage Limits

Having a good understanding of the practical details and luggage restrictions is really important when you’re getting ready.

First off, it’s good to know that a significant chunk of your stuff will be safely kept at your hotel in Cusco – the tour company you’ve chosen will handle this. 

Sort out all your Inca Trail essentials the night before you hit the trail. The gear you take  will be divided into two separate bags:

1. Your Own Daypack: Your daypack will be your companion all along the trek. It’s where you’ll keep things you need right away, like water, snacks, medication, your camera, rain gear, and anything personal you might need during the day.

2. Bag from the Tour Company: The second bag is provided by your tour company. You won’t have to carry this one  – the porters will. This bag is where you’ll pack other items you need for the trail, such as extra clothes, your sleeping bag, and other stuff that’s not super essential for the day. I went with G Adventures, and the weight limit for this bag was 6kg – other tour companies may have different limits.

Porters on the Inca Trail

Here’s the scoop: when it comes to hiking the Inca Trail, most tour companies have got your back with a supportive crew, including these amazing porters.

These heroes take charge of lugging the cooking gear, camping stuff, and even the food for the entire four-day adventure. Talk about a load off, right? They set off ahead of you, building the camps and the kitchen along the way as they wait for you to arrive. 

You arrive at your camp – you’ll find your tent set up and your 6kg left inside. Usually, they will also have tea and snacks waiting for you. 

You won’t see the 6kg bag until you arrive at the camps, so make sure you pack absolutely everything you need in your personal day pack.

Don’t forget to download this Inca Trail checklist to make sure you have everything you need!

Items Provided on the Tour

As for what to pack for Machu Picchu, focus on your personal items since the tour provides these essentials.

Here’s what the tour takes care of:

• Cooking tent and cooking equipment*
• Tents for accommodation
• Sleeping mats
• Sleeping bag**

*Primary food provisions are made for the whole group for the full four days –  if you have dietary requirements it’s important to let your tour leader know BEFORE you leave Cusco so they can cater for you. 

** If you don’t have your own sleeping bag you can hire one. You need to confirm this BEFORE you set off. I hired one because I didn’t want to carry it around my whole 2 months in Peru. 

Inca Trail Gear List

When you reserve your spot for the Inca Trail, you’ll receive a detailed Inca Trail equipment list. I booked my Inca Trail tour with G Adventures.

After booking, as part of my confirmation, I was sent a comprehensive packing guide. This G Adventures Inca Trail packing list outlines all the essentials you’ll need to ensure a successful trek, covering items such as clothing, footwear, personal gear, and more. 

It was my go-to resource to make sure I was fully prepared for my trip.

Inca Trail Camping Facilities

The whole camping vibe on the Inca Trail is a mix of ease and simplicity. 

Picture this: every time you rock up to a campsite, those superstar porters have set up everything. Tents? Check. Dining area? Done. Just remember, these camps are all about keeping it real – no fancy electricity or over-the-top frills here.

You might get lucky with a cold water tap at some camp spots, but honestly, the lack of power kind of adds to the charm. 

Most camps sit in these specially marked fields or terraces, often with a handy pop-up toilet tent. But here’s the thing, most of our group – myself included –  preferred the natural restroom setup – bushes were sometimes the better option. 

A few places had a basic toilet block, though let’s say they didn’t always hit the spot in terms of cleanliness.

Best Backpack for Inca Trail

When picking a Machu Picchu backpack, aim for a lightweight yet robust daypack. 

Personally, I went with a 50L backpack (overkill, I admit!) due to what I had available, but remember, you don’t need to fill it to the brim. 

Look for a backpack with cushy shoulder straps, a snug waist belt, and a chest strap – these features make a world of difference while you haul it along the entire hike.

 Your Inca Trail backpack size matters, but comfort counts just as much!

Best Inca Trail Boots

When it comes to picking the best Inca Trail hiking boots, think of comfort and support. 

Get boots with solid arch and ankle support, plus a grippy sole – trust me, it makes all the difference on those trails, especially if it rains when everything gets slippery. 

Waterproof boots are a must. Rain is always a possibility on the trail. 

One more important thing: break in your Inca Trail shoes before you start the hike  – your feet will thank you later. So, step in style with your trusty Inca Trail shoes or hiking boots and make those ancient paths your own!

What Shoes to Wear to Machu Picchu

Planning a day trip to Machu Picchu and bypassing the Inca Trail? No need to overthink it – just throw on comfy trainers with good soles, and you’re set. 

When it comes to what to wear at Machu Picchu, comfy grippy shoes are fine for exploring the archaeological site.

Best Inca Trail Clothing

So, for clothes for Machu Picchu or Inca Trail, think comfy and practical. 

Opt for lightweight, quick-drying pieces like gym wear – they’re soft and easy to move in. 

I suggest avoiding heavy stuff like denim or thick cotton – they’re a pain when they’re wet. 

Don’t forget to pack fleece for chilly nights – they’re cosy, lightweight, and water-resistant for when the temperatures drop. It’s worth carrying this in your Machu Picchu day pack in case it gets cold when you’re on the trail. 

Other Useful Hiking Gear for Machu Picchu Trek

In this section, I’ve added some other useful Machu Picchu hiking gear to take. 

If you forgot any vital Inca Trail gear, there are plenty of outfitters in Cusco and Ollantaytambo to pick up last-minute things.

Sleeping Bag

The best sleeping bag for Inca Trail is something that is small and light – space is precious. Your Inca Trail sleeping bag temperature you need will vary. Choose the warmth based on the season you’re hiking in Peru. 

Because I was on a 2-month backpacking trip across Peru, I rented one from the Inca Trail crew. 

Hiking Poles/ Trekking Poles

A must for your Inca Trail hike packing list is hiking or trekking poles.

I bought mine before I set off on my Peru trip because I knew I’d be doing a lot of hiking. 

Go for a pair of hiking poles that are lightweight. Mine were carbon fibre ones with shock absorbers built in. Also, here’s a little tip: cork handles are way friendlier on your hands than rubber ones – fewer blisters! Even with cork handles, I opted to wear a thin pair of fingerless running gloves just for an extra bit of protection. 

If you don’t have a set of trekking poles, then you can pick up basic hiking sticks in the stores around Ollantaytambo. 

You’ll be thankful for them, especially tackling day 2 at the Dead Woman’s Pass stretch on the Inca Trail. Coming down that slope on the flip side can be a knee killer, but these poles are like your knee’s BFF. 

Power Bank

Here’s the deal: the Inca Trail is like a tech detox – no power in sight for a good 4 days. So, keep your gadgets in check. 

Minimize the electronics you take. Put your phone on flight mode to save power and make sure your camera batteries are all fully charged before you set off – extra batteries are your backup plan. 

Make sure to add a high-capacity power bank to keep your devices alive to your Machu Picchu hike packing list.

Waterproof Backpack Cover

If you’re trekking the Inca Trail during the rainy season and wondering what to take on the Inca Trail, an essential is a waterproof backpack cover – trust me, it can get wet – I hiked in January, just before the peak rain season!

If your backpack didn’t come with a waterproof cover no worries – pick one up in Cusco. 

Giant Plastic Poncho

While we’re on the topic of rain survival, let’s talk ponchos.

Whether you’re back home sorting your packing list for the Inca Trail trek or already in Peru, exploring other ruins in the area in the days leading up to your trip, a giant plastic poncho is your rainy-day hero. 

Here’s the scoop: go for a tough and heavy-duty one, not those flimsy ones from theme parks. Also, find one that’s big enough to cover you and your backpack. 

This will add an extra layer of protection against any downpours. 

Packing Cubes

While you’re thinking bout clothes for Inca Trail, packing cubes are your secret weapon – they keep your stuff neat, and tidy, and even save space by squishing things down. It’s like your own mini wardrobe in your backpack! 

If you don’t want to purchase packing cubes, no problem – zip-lock bags are a wallet-friendly trick worth adding to your Inca Trail kit list.

Inflatable Camping Pillow

If you’re after a little luxury, then add an inflatable camping pillow to your packing list for Machu Picchu hike. 

However, if you’re aiming to go light, here’s a trick: use a folded jumper as a makeshift pillow – that’s what I did. However, a few days in, my neck got stiff and I wish I’d packed an inflatable pillow. 

Head Torch

It’s time to shine some light on your Machu Picchu checklist – sorry! – pack a decent head torch.

Although you could opt for a handheld flashlight, they just aren’t as practical, although they are good inside your tent. 

The reason why I suggest a head torch is for the last day of the hike. You’re up and about before the sun even thinks about rising to make it to the sun gate before the sun rises. You’re hiking in the dark, so it’s useful to have both hands free. 

Filter Water Bottle

Inca Trail trekking is thirsty work. It’s important to stay hydrated. 

You’ll be provided with safe drinking water at camp, along with tea. All this water is boiled before being used. 

If you’re conscious about drinking this, then for guaranteed safe water, consider a Water-to-Go bottle or a Lifestraw filter. They work by filtering out any impurities. You can use them for filtering tap and river water.

They are a great way to save money and the planet. If not, the next best thing is to bring a refillable bottle. 

Inca Trail What to Pack

This what to pack for the Inca Trail guide will help you make the most out of this unforgettable trekking experience.

Ready to start packing for the Inca Trail? Don’t miss any of these items off your checklist. 

Passport & Permits

This is the most essential piece of packing for Inca Trail.

Before hitting the Inca Trail, your passport and permit are musts at the Km.82 checkpoint – this is the first checkpoint on the trail. There are another three you’ll go through. 

Only 500 permits are issued each day. Those 500 permits are split between hikers and crew. 300 of them are for the crew  – porters, guides, etc!

If you’ve booked the Inca Trail as part of a tour, they will have organized the permits for you.

Photocopies of your passport or permit aren’t accepted. Also, the passport you take on the trail should match what you used to book your tour with. 

Inca Trail Clothes

When it comes to what to pack for Inca Trail, it’s all about making smart choices to dodge the cold and wet on your adventure. 

Take note of the season you’re hiking in. The dry season falls between April and October, whereas the wet season is from November to March.

Also, you’ll probably be wearing the same outfit again – it’s the trail’s fashion mantra. 

Here are my suggestions for what to wear on the Inca Trail:

• Lightweight Fleece
• Waterproof jacket
• 3 x sweat-wicking t-shirts for the hike days (opt for long sleeved variety if it’s cold)
• A regular T-shirt for the return to Cusco
• Beanie hat for chilly nights
• Lightweight hiking trousers or hiking leggings
• Lightweight shorts (only for warmer weather hiking)
• 3 x thick hiking socks
• 4 x underwear
• 2 x sports-bras
• A set of thermal layers to sleep in
• Sunglasses

Footwear for Around Camp

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of taking off your hiking boots at the end of a full day’s walking. 

I highly recommended taking a pair of flip-flops, comfy sandals, or any light and airy shoes to your packing for Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail Toiletries

You’re not going to be able to shower on the Inca Trail. So, the secret to feeling fresh on the trek is by packing some basic toiletries. 

Here’s what to include in your toiletries packing list for Machu Picchu trek:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste 
• Cleanser and face cloth
• Suncream
• Deodorant
• Lip balm
• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitiser
• Bug repellant

Basic First Aid Kit

Your guide will carry a main first aid kit, however, it’s a good idea to have a few personal supplies in your day bag. 

• Antiseptic cream
• Paracetamol
• Diarrhea tablets
• Rehydration sachets
• Blister plasters
• Personal medication

Money 

Don’t forget some cash. Along the trail, you’ll run into local farmers offering treats and keepsakes to purchase.

Plus, an important part is having enough cash for tipping your awesome porters and guide. 

As a guideline, allow around $10-20 USD equivalent per person, per day for tips. If you’re doing a 4-day trip, this will be around $40-80 in total. This will cover the guide, cook, and porters. 

What to Wear to Machu Picchu

Now we’ve looked at what to bring on the Inca Trail, this is just a short section about what to wear at Machu Picchu. 

A big portion of visitors to Machu Pichu arrive on a day trip – they’ve not spent the past 4 days hiking and without a shower. 

You might want to pack a set of slightly tidier-looking clothes to change into when you arrive here – especially if you’re fed up with being photographed in the same outfit for the past 4 days. 

It’s a ruin site – so I still suggest wearing something comfortable and practical, but you might want to change from your hiking gear.

Trek To Machu Picchu Packing List – Month by Month

Because your packing will vary slightly based on the season, this section breaks down what the typical weather is with suggestions on extra things to pack during those months. 

What to Pack for Inca Trail in January

Typical Weather: In January, expect warm days with an average daytime temperature of 19°C (66°F), while nights can get chilly at around 7°C (45°F). Be prepared for lots of rain, as the average rainfall is 154 mm, spread across approximately 18 rain days during the month.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots

What to Pack for Inca Trail in February

Typical Weather: February is the peak of the rainy season in Machu Picchu – expect plenty of downpours and possible disruptions due to landslides. Temperatures in Machu Picchu range between 22°C (72°F) to 8°C (46°F).

NOTE: The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance and preservation work every February so you can’t hike the Inca Trail during this month. However, if you want to hike to Machu Picchu, other trails are open such as the Salkantay Trail.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof shoes
• Waterproof jacket 
• Waterproof trousers
• A rainproof poncho
• Backpack cover

What to Pack for Inca Trail in March

Typical Weather: If you’re hiking Inca Trail in March then anticipate trekking through poor conditions. The average daytime temperature lingers at 18°C ( 64°F) and the nighttime temperature drop to around 6°C (43°F). The month sees an average rainfall of 109 mm, spread across approximately 11 rain days. Be aware that views might be covered by clouds during this time.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots

What to Pack for Inca Trail in April

Typical Weather: April presents good trekking conditions with an average daytime temperature of 19°C (67°F). Nights can be cool, around 7°C (44°F). Expect some rain during this shoulder season, but enjoy good visibility overall. The month sees an average rainfall of 41 mm, spread across approximately 8 rain days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots

What to Pack for Inca Trail in May

Typical Weather: May offers excellent trekking conditions, with dry days and cold nights. The average daytime temperature is around 18°C (65°F), while nights can be chilly, dropping to about 3°C (38°F). Rainfall is minimal, with an average of 9 mm spread across approximately 3 rain days. 

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in June

Typical Weather: If you’re hiking the Inca Trail in June, you’ll be blessed with excellent trekking conditions with lots of sunshine but cold temperatures in the evenings. During the day, expect an average temperature of around 16°C (62°F), while nights can be quite cold at approximately 1°C (38°F ). Rainfall is minimal, with an average of 18 mm spread across just 2 rain days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in July

Typical Weather: Hiking the Inca Trail in July also promises excellent trekking conditions with clear dry weather. While days are relatively mild, around 15°C (60°F), nights can get icy cold at approximately 1°C ( 34°F). Rainfall is minimal, with an average of 8 mm spread across only 2 rain days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in August

Typical Weather: Inca Trail in August offers perfect trekking conditions with warm, dry days and clear skies. During the day, expect an average temperature of around 18°C ( 64°F), while nights can get chilly at approximately 4°C  (39°F). Rainfall is minimal, with an average of 10 mm spread across just 2 rainy days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in September

Typical Weather: The Inca Trail in September provides good trekking conditions with clear skies and warm weather. During the day, expect an average temperature of around 22°C (73°F), while nights are relatively mild at approximately 10°C (50°F). There might be some rain, with an average of 14 mm spread across about 7 rainy days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in October

Typical Weather: October offers good trekking conditions with warmer days and some showers. During the day, expect an average temperature of around 23°C (74°F), while nights are relatively mild at approximately 11°C (52°F). Rainfall is more noticeable, with an average of 47 mm spread across about 8 rainy days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in November

Typical Weather: November offers fair trekking conditions with warm to hot days and a good chance of rain. During the day, expect an average temperature of around 21°C (70°F), while nights are relatively cooler at approximately 6°C (43°F). Rainfall is notable, with an average of 77 mm spread across about 12 rainy days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen

What to Pack for Inca Trail in December

Typical Weather: December offers poor trekking conditions with a strong probability of sudden downpours. During the day, expect an average temperature of around 20°C (68°F), while nights are relatively cooler at approximately 7°C (45°F). Rainfall is significant, with an average of 119 mm spread across about 16 rainy days.

Don’t forget to bring: 

• Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof Shoes
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Light and Warm Clothing Layers
• Sturdy Hiking Boots

Additional Inca Trail Tips

Here are some additional Inca Trail trek packing list recommendations to get the most out of your trip.

• Pack Light and Smart: Opt for a lightweight and minimalistic approach in your Inca Trail trek packing list. Focus on versatile clothing items that can be layered for varying weather conditions. Prioritise essentials and leave unnecessary items behind.

• Pack Strategically: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space. Pack heavier items closer to your back for better balance. Keep your daypack organized with easy access to essentials like water, snacks, and a rain jacket.

• Embrace Basic Accommodation: The Inca Trail offers basic camping facilities. Expect simple tents and communal dining areas. While it might not be luxurious, the experience of being close to nature and the camaraderie with fellow trekkers make it special.

• Expect Limited Electricity: Campsites may lack electricity, so bring portable chargers and power banks to keep your electronics charged. However, use them sparingly to conserve energy.

• Follow Trail Etiquette: Respect the environment and fellow trekkers by following Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash and waste, and be considerate of others sharing the trail.

Packing List Inca Trail – FAQs

Hopefully, by now, you’re all set, and you’re packing for the Inca Trai will b a breeze. This final section goes into some frequently asked questions about what to pack for this iconic trek.

What’s Missing From Your Inca Trail Packing List?

By now you should know exactly what needs to go on your packing list for Inca Trail as well as what to wear to Machu Picchu. I’ve covered a ton of information in this article that covers everything you’ll need for the best experience possible.  

The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most iconic hikes, and certainly, the memories of it will stay with me for a lifetime. I’d do it again in an instant! 

Don’t forget you can download this Machu Picchu packing list here for future reference.  

Planning on travelling around Peru? Read more inspirational articles…

• G Adventures Inca Trail Review: The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
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