By a Seasoned Inca Trail Trekker
When you have finally made the amazing decision to walk the Inca Trail trek in Peru, you also need to know what to pack and what not to pack.
I am a seasoned hiker with varied experience, including multi-day traps on my own, and in general, I feel like a confident mountain hiker.
However, doing a high-altitude trek like the Inca Trail requires a bit extra planning, so after completing this trek myself (and making a couple of mistakes), I’m here to provide you with my best tips in this packing guide for your Andean mountain journey.
Based on my own experience, this packing guide is your roadmap to a successful, comfortable, and amazing hike in the Andean mountains!
The Smart Inca Trail Packing List!
You want to make sure your hike is as comfortable as possible, so you do not want to carry more than you need on your multi-day trek to Machu Picchu.
Remember to research the weather during the period you are walking the Inca Trail, especially the night temperatures, as it can get really cold in the mountains (underestimating this was my biggest mistake on my hike).
When I walked the Inca Trail with G Adventures, I learned not to skimp on the nightly comfort (it was just September, so I thought I was very safe – but no.
Understanding the Inca Trail Climate and Terrain
The Inca Trail presents a somewhat challenging environment where you can experience dramatic temperature shifts from day to night and in diverse ecological zones.
This is what I suggest you prepare for:
- Daytime temperatures ranging from 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- Nighttime temperatures dropping to 35-45°F (2-7°C)
- Potential rain, especially during the wet season (November-March)
- High-altitude conditions ranging from 8,000 to 13,800 feet above sea level
Recommended Tour Operator: G Adventures (I had a wonderful Inca Trail experience with them)
Best Trekking Seasons: May-September (dry season)
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Essential Clothing for High-Altitude Hiking
Important Base Layers
- 2x Merino wool underwear (moisture-wicking and odor-resistant)
- 5x quick-dry underwear
- 3x moisture-wicking hiking socks
- Thermal base layer top and bottom
Insulation and Protection Layers
- Wind-resistant Gore-Tex jacket
- Warm insulated jacket for evening temperatures
- Lightweight, convertible hiking pants
- Warm beanie
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
- Neck gaiter or buff for sun and wind protection
Critical Gear and Equipment Checklist
Hiking Essentials
- Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Lightweight camp shoes or trail runners
- Trekking poles (I normally don’t use poles, but I was happy I had them here!)
- Hydration system with water filter (backpack-style)
- Small waterproof daypack (25-35L)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Comfort and Survival Items
You need to join an organized tour of the Inca Trail to protect the ancient paths and ruins, and your tour company will normally provide some of these items for you.
Use this as a checklist to make sure you have it if there is something they do not provide!
- Sleeping bag rated for 20°F (-6°C)
- Lightweight sleeping pad
- Compact emergency first aid kit
- Portable power bank
- Dry bags for electronics
- Compression stuff sacks
Health and Safety Packing Considerations
First Aid and Personal Care
- Altitude sickness medication (you never know if altitude will affect you)
- Prescription medications you normally or sometimes use
- Blister prevention and treatment kit (better safe than sorry)
- Biodegradable wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Insect repellent
Technology and Navigation
- Smartphone with offline maps
- Portable charger
- Lightweight camera
- Extra memory cards
- International power adapter
Pro Packing Tips for the Inca Trail
- Weight Management: Your personal porter will carry about 6 kg of your gear. Pack light and smart.
- Layering is Key: The ability to add or remove layers quickly is crucial in changing mountain conditions.
- Altitude Preparation: You can be in great shape but still have issues with altitude sickness. If you have not hiked up to 4000 meters (13000 feet) before, make sure you are prepared.
- Sustainable Trekking: Use reusable water bottles, biodegradable things, and minimize single-use plastics.
What Not to Bring
- Heavy cotton clothing
- Unnecessary electronics
- Large towels
- More than one extra set of clothes
- Expensive jewelry or unnecessary valuables
Sustainable Trekking Recommendations
- Choose eco-friendly gear manufacturers
- Respect local environmental guidelines
- Use biodegradable products
- Follow “Leave No Trace” principles
Wrap-Up Packing List For The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is a transformative journey through ancient Incan landscapes, challenging terrain, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
The porters will do the heavy lifting for you on the Inca Trail, and they also carry all the food, a whole kitchen and kitchen tent, and all the stuff you will enjoy during your no doubt fantastic experience in the Peruvian mountains.
You will be carrying a small day pack yourself, so keep your Inca Trail packing list as short as you can without leaving behind stuff you really need on your way to the UNESCO-protected Machu Picchu.
Proper preparation and packing is the key to an unforgettable experience.
Disclaimer: Always consult with your tour operator and a healthcare professional before undertaking high-altitude treks.
About the Author
As a lofe-ling lover of hiking, I have also done a variety of treks in Cuba and Colombia, but most of my hiking experience is from Arctic Norway.
As I love traveling solo, I have done many of my treks alone, including multi-day solo treks, and I love inspiring others to experience epic nature up close and personal – with the right equipment for a wonderful and safe journey.
Related blog posts:
Hiking The Inca Trail In March? Pros and Cons!
