Inca Trail Packing List: Quick Checklist

Use this quick checklist before you pack. Your goal is to carry only what you need during the day, send camp items in your duffel bag, and leave heavy luggage in Cusco.

Essentials vs. Daypack vs. Duffel bag vs. Suitcase

What to pack for Inca Trail: Essentials

Original Passport

Your passport is the most important item on your Inca Trail packing list, you will need it to book and enter the Inca Trail. Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates to avoid any issues. If you renew it after booking, don’t forget to update your passport number so everything matches when it’s time for your trek.

Passport Copy

You’ll always need a copy of your passport for those times and places when it’s best to keep the original in a safe, in your duffel bag. Always carry a copy of your passport with you.

Travel insurance details

No one is immune to a medical emergency, especially if it occurs outside your country of residence. Keep in mind that the Inca Trail is a hiking route, part of adventure tourism, which always involves a certain level of physical risk. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance and always carry a copy of the policy with you.

First-aid Kit

It’s always good to be prepared for common health issues that can arise during the trek. Here’s what to bring:

• Medications: Pack essentials like Diamox (for altitude sickness), Pepto-Bismol and Imodium (for stomach issues), Ciprofloxacin (antibiotic for bacterial infections), and any personal medications you may need. Also consider packing pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and antihistamines in case of allergies.
• Electrolyte rehydration salts: Helpful for dehydration, especially after long hiking days.
• Blister plasters: Also known as blister pads or hydrocolloid dressings, these are a must to prevent and treat blisters during long hikes - they cushion, reduce friction, and help with healing.
• Antiseptic cream: An antiseptic cream is essential for any trek as it helps prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters.
• Feminine products: If needed, bring what’s comfortable and easy to manage: tampons, reusable cloth pads, personal wipes, and pain relief for cramps.

Small amount of cash

Along the Inca Trail, you’ll come across small shops near the campsites that sell basic supplies. Bring a small amount of cash to buy snacks, water, or sports drinks there. You can also use the money to tip your guides and porters.

Inca Trail Daypack

We recommend a 25-35 liter backpack with a rain cover. This is the bag you carry during the hike. Pack only what you need during the day.

A 25-35L backpack is a great size for the Inca Trail, big enough for your essentials but still light and easy to carry.

• Rain cover for backpack
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• 2-liter reusable water bottle or hydration pack
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm
• Snacks and electrolyte tablets
• Camera or cell phone
• Portable charger
• Basic first-aid kit
• Personal medications
• Hand sanitizer and tissues
• A warm layer for cold or windy sections

Note

At Machu Picchu citadel, the maximum daypack size allowed is 40x35x20 cm (16x14x8 inches). This applies to physical dimensions, not capacity, so don’t worry too much about how many liters your backpack holds, just make sure it fits within these limits to avoid any issues at the entrance.

Duffel Bag for the Inca Trail

Most tour companies provide a duffel bag for your clothes and personal items, which porters will carry for you (up to 7kg). This is where you place your spare clothes, sleepwear, toiletries, and other camp items. 

You won't see this bag during the day, as it will be carried by the porters; you'll only have access to it at night when we're camping.

That means you’ll only need to carry your daypack with the things you'll use along the day.

• 5–6 pairs of underwear
• 4–5 pairs of hiking socks
• 2–3 quick-dry shirts
• 1 thermal base layer set
• 1 fleece or down jacket
• 1 beanie and 1 pair of gloves
• Camp shoes or sandals
• Small towel
• Toiletries in travel-size bottles
• Sleeping bag rated around -10°C / 14°F
• Headlamp with spare batteries

Luggage in Cusco

Leave city clothes, extra shoes, large toiletries, electronics you will not use, and anything bulky in your suitcase in your hotel. 

Many hotels in Cusco or Sacred Valley offer the luggage-storage service for their guests. Some tour operators do the same, including TreXperience.

• Big suitcase
• Jeans
• Cotton hoodies
• Full-size toiletries
• Extra electronics
• Expensive jewelry
• Shoes you will not use
• Anything heavy, bulky, or unnecessary

Inca Trail clothing

As we mentioned, the weather on the Inca Trail and around Machu Picchu can be highly unpredictable. Even during the driest months like June and July, rain is still a possibility, so it’s always best to be prepared for all kinds of conditions.

Therefore, when we talk about Inca Trail clothing, layering is key; the same day can feel warm, cold, windy, and wet. Temperatures can shift dramatically as you move through different ecological zones, whether you're climbing into the mountains or descending into the valleys. The best approach is to wear light, breathable layers that you can easily add or remove as the weather changes.

Here’s what we recommend packing:

	5 to 6 pairs of underwear Bring around 5 or 6 undergarments. You should always bring an extra set in the duffel bag, as you might use more than 1 in the day if it gets wet. One or two different ones will be enough, as you must save room for others. Sports underwear is better; bring sports bras.
	2 Termal base layers (top and bottom) Think of these as your second skin for cold nights and early mornings. Go for lightweight base layers that provide warmth without adding bulk. One for the top should be enough, but it’s a good idea to bring a bottom layer, too, just in case temperatures drop more than expected. The extra set can go in the duffel bag.
	2-3 Moisture-wicking shirts Long-sleeved shirts are recommended for this trek; they must be made of lightweight, breathable, and quick-dry material. Bring two short-sleeved shirts and three long-sleeved shirts; cotton is not recommended.
	2 Long-sleeve shirts Bring at least one long-sleeve shirt for extra protection from the sun, insects and unpredictable weather. If the last days of the trek are cooler, you might even prefer it over a short-sleeve shirt. It’s always good to have options!
	1 Fleece or down Jacket You will need a fleece or down jacket for the cold evenings and higher altitudes. Both provide great insulation, but if you go for fleece, Polartec materials are a solid choice. Just make sure whatever you bring isn’t too bulky—you want to stay warm but not overheat and end up sweating. Reliable brands like Columbia, The North Face, and Patagonia are worth considering.
	1 Waterproof and windproof jacket A waterproof and windproof jacket is a must for the Inca Trail, especially since some sections can get really windy and pretty cold. You can go for a soft-shell or hard-shell jacket; just make sure it’s lightweight so it doesn’t add too much weight to your pack. If you bring one with a hood, you might not even need a rain poncho. Some good brands are Columbia, Patagonia, and Mountain Hardwear.
	1 to 2 Quick-dry hiking pants Pack 1 or 2 hiking pants and at least one pair of shorts. If you want to save space, convertible (zip-off style) trousers are a great choice for sunny days. Wespornow has affordable ones on Amazon, but if you’re looking for something more durable, Columbia has plenty of good models for both men and women. For ladies, leggings are also a popular and comfortable option on the trail.
	1 Hat or cap for sun protection Bring a sunhat with a neck cover; neck gaiters will be very helpful to cover your neck and prevent sunburn. Also, bring good sunglasses.
	1 Beanie and 1 pair of gloves Bring a fleece beanie and gloves; waterproof gloves are suitable for rainy days.
	1 Buff or Bandana A Buff or bandana shields your face and neck from dust, sun, and wind. It can be worn as a headband, neck warmer, or face cover. Lightweight and versatile, it’s an easy essential for all-day comfort.

Take note...

Skip heavy cotton, bulky hoodies, and anything that dries slowly.

Best shoes for Inca Trail

Your boots matter more than almost any other item. Bring hiking boots or trail shoes with a good grip. In addition, the best shoes for Inca Trail are those that have already been used on other long walks because these will have molded to the shape of your feet.

Remember, don't bring brand-new boots for this trek.

	Hiking Boots Hiking boots are an absolute essential on your Inca Trail packing list. Look for ones with rubber soles and ankle support to keep your feet stable on rocky terrain. Make sure you have worn them before arriving on the Inca Trail, blisters and sore feet are the last thing you want on the trail! Go for mid-weight boots that aren’t too tight or too loose. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit a finger snugly between your heel and the back of the boot. Good brands are Salomon, Merrell or even Hi-tec.
	Hiking sandals or comfortable shoes for evenings After a long day on the Inca Trail, you'll want to give your feet a break and allow them to breathe. Hiking sandals or comfortable shoes are perfect for relaxing at camp in the evening.
	Wool or moisture-wicking socks (4-5 pairs) You should have thick hiking socks to wear with the boots and some light socks at the campsite. We recommend 4 pairs of thick wool socks and 3 pairs of lightweight socks.

Good online options for buying clothes and trekking gear are REI and Tradeinn.

Inca Trail Camping Gear

Most tour companies provide or rent the camping gear needed for the Inca Trail, like tents, sleeping bags, and mats, so bringing your own is totally optional. However, if you’re more comfortable with your gear, feel free to bring it!

You can also rent equipment in Cusco, but it’s not always the best option since the quality can vary. Make sure to check the gear properly before heading to the trail.

	Sleeping bag For the Inca Trail, a mummy-style down sleeping bag is the best recommendation. It should be light, comfortable, and rated for temperatures around -10°C (14°F). Down sleeping bags are the warmest and lightest option, but they can be a bit pricey. If you’re not planning on doing more treks in the future, a synthetic sleeping bag is a more budget-friendly choice. If you don’t want to bring your own, you can rent one from us. We provide warm down sleeping bags with liners and pillows on all our trekking tours.
	Trekking poles (with rubber tips) You'll be hiking on uneven and challenging terrain, so good trekking poles can make a huge difference. From experience, we know that the wrong poles—ones that slip, vibrate, or hit your hands—can be more of a hassle than a help, so choosing the right ones is key. Go for lightweight, adjustable trekking poles with rubber tips for better grip and stability. If you don’t have your own, you can rent Black Diamond poles from us.
	Inflatable Mat (optional) If you want a good night’s sleep on the trail, this is something to consider. Most tour providers, including us, provide a foam mattress, but if you’re looking for extra comfort, bringing your own lightweight inflatable sleeping mat is a great option. Therm-a-Rest mats are a good choice. If you’d rather not carry extra weight, you can rent an inflatable mat from us for better insulation and comfort.

Take note...

Ask your tour operator what camping gear is included in your Inca Trail package before coming to Peru. That way, you’ll avoid bringing unnecessary items.

Important Accessories for the Inca Trail

	Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries) You should also bring a headlamp for the trek—it’ll make it much easier to move around camp and head to the bathroom at night. You can bring a flashlight, but a headlamp is better since it keeps your hands free. A good affordable choice is Energizer, but if you want something more durable, Petzl is a great option. Don't forget to pack extra batteries!
	Hydration bladder or water bottles  (2 liters capacity) Bring a blader that fits your backpack or a reusable water container for at least 2 liters of water; anything bigger than 2 liters on the Inca Trail might be too heavy.
	Sunglasses and sunblock (SPF 30+) You will be hiking out in the open space at a high altitude; good sunscreen is essential. Bring water-resistant sunscreen and lip balms.
	Electronics Take cameras, cellphones, or Go-Pros to capture the best moments. Remember that you will be camping out in the mountains without electricity.
	Portable charger/power bank Bring a good power bank or extra batteries. A 10,000 mAh power bank should do the job.

Toiletries and Other Accessories

Insect repellent

Bring insect repellent high in DEET; the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu can be warm and humid, and mosquitoes can be relentless.

Reusable quick-dry towel

We provide hand towels for drying your hands, but it’s a good idea to bring a small, quick-dry towel for washing your face or taking a shower.

Swimsuit (optional)

If you’re planning to stay an extra day in Aguas Calientes, pack a swimsuit, there are hot springs where you can soak and relax after the trek.

Wet wipes and tissues

Pack wet wipes, tissues, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands during the trek.

Personal toiletries

Bring the basics, but keep them small and lightweight: toothbrush & toothpaste, dry shampoo, deodorant, face moisturizer, and a small bar of soap. 

If you're bringing makeup, keep it simple—you’ll be on the trail for days, and less is definitely more. A good option is a matte sunscreen base that offers sun protection and light coverage. La Roche-Posay has great ones that work well for the trek!

Snack Essentials for the Inca Trail

One last thing to check off your Inca Trail packing list: snacks; they will keep your energy up and make the trek much more enjoyable. Here’s a quick list of essentials for steady energy, key nutrients, and a little mood boost along the way:

• Energy Bars (1-2 per day): Go for bars rich in protein, fats, and carbs. Nut-based or protein bars keep you fueled longer.
• Trail Mix: Mix nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a blend of protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars.
• Dried Fruits: Lightweight options like apricots, bananas, or raisins offer quick energy.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate or chocolate-covered nuts provide a tasty pick-me-up with antioxidants. Just be careful with melting.
• Beef Jerky: Great for protein and salt to help muscle recovery and electrolyte balance.
• Electrolyte Powder/Tablets: Essential at high altitudes to stay hydrated and fight fatigue.
• Candies: Quick sugar boosts from gummies or hard candies for tougher stretches.
• Water Purification (Optional): Tablets or a small filter ensure clean water, adding peace of mind.
• Tea Bags/Instant Coffee (Optional): A warm drink for breaks adds comfort and a little caffeine kick.

These snacks are lightweight, easy to pack, and give you balanced energy throughout your trek. Pack them in resealable bags to keep them fresh and reduce waste!

What Not to Pack for the Inca Trail

Because the Inca Trail is part of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, it is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For this reason, its conservation and protection are very important, and there are certain items you cannot bring on the Inca Trail:

• Drones and large professional filming equipment are not allowed without special permits.
• Trekking poles without rubber tips covering their metal ends are not allowed.
• Umbrellas or any other pointed objects are not allowed.
• The consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs is not allowed.
• Sharp weapons or dangerous objects are not allowed.
• Disposable or single-use bottles are not allowed.
• Portable speakers, megaphones, or musical instruments are not allowed inside the site or for use there.
• Cigarettes, vapes, or any item used to make fire are not allowed.
• Carry your waste out with you.

The best Inca Trail packing list is not the longest one. It is the one that keeps your daypack light and your gear truly useful.

What to Pack for the Inca Trail by Season

Dry season: April to October

The dry season usually brings clear skies, bright days, firm trails, and excellent long-distance views, with average daytime temperatures between 18°C and 22°C. However, temperatures drop sharply at night and can fall to around 0°C. Rain is less frequent during these months, but it can still appear suddenly, especially in high-altitude areas and cloud forest sections.

For this reason, your Inca Trail packing list should include the following items in addition to the essentials mentioned above:

• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• A warm jacket
• A beanie
• Gloves
• A waterproof layer. 

Rainy season: November to March

During the rainy season, rain protection becomes much more important. These months often bring cloudy skies, frequent rain throughout the day, and muddy trails. Average daytime temperatures range between 16°C and 22°C. Nights are usually warmer than in the dry season, with temperatures between 5°C and 10°C. Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip are especially important, as the stone steps can become slippery.

For this season, make sure these items take priority in your Inca Trail packing list:

• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Waterproof bags to protect your belongings inside your backpack
• Quick-dry clothing
• Extra socks. 

Note:

The Inca Trail is usually closed in February each year for maintenance work. However, it is still possible to reach Machu Picchu by train.

How to pack your Daypack for the Inca Trail?

Your Inca Trail packing list does not have to be heavy. The key is to organize your items well, especially in your daypack. Distribute the weight properly and place the items you use most often near the top, close to the main opening of the backpack, where you can reach them easily:

• Bottom of the backpack: The bottom of your backpack should hold items you would only use in an emergency, such as an extra change of clothes, spare trekking shoes, or even thermal clothing you may need if you feel cold.
• External pockets: This is where you can keep your rain poncho or waterproof jacket, along with personal care items such as disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, insect repellent, and similar essentials. For extra protection, keep these items in waterproof bags to protect them from the rain.
• Top of the backpack: This section should hold items you need within easy reach, but that also need to stay well protected from the rain. These may include a basic first-aid kit, personal documents, a camera, and other important items.
• Side pockets: These are usually useful for carrying reusable water bottles, snacks, and small items you want to access quickly. They can also be used to carry any small trash you produce along the way.

Inca Trail packing list: Final Checklist