The Inca Trail is one of South America’s most iconic treks, drawing thousands of visitors from all around the world each year. For many, it’s the ultimate bucket list hike. With incredible Inca history and spectacular views of the Andes, it truly is a wonderful hike.
But make no mistake – while the Inca Trail is a magnificent hike, it’s by no means easy. The classic Inca Trail is four days long, you must cross demanding terrain at high altitude and the weather is very unpredictable. It can be hot, cold, wet, dry, windy, and all of that can change within minutes.
During my Inca Trail hike, we often experienced four seasons in a day. So, I know just how important it is to pack correctly for the hike. If you forget something, it could completely ruin your experience.
In my guide, I’ve shared a complete Inca Trail packing list for the classic 4-day trek. This covers everything you need to pack, what to adjust for different seasons, some extra packing tips and what to leave at home. I’ve written a quick summary of everything to pack, and have also shared a more detailed breakdown.
While this packing guide focuses on the Inca Trail, it’s also helpful for nearby hikes like the Salkantay and Lares Trek, which share similar conditions and terrain.
Exactly what I packed for the Inca Trail (Complete list)
If you’re in a rush, here’s a helpful summary of everything I packed for the four day Inca Trail trek.
My hike was slightly different as I did the combined Salkantay and Inca Trail, but we could send back anything we didn’t need to Cusco in between the hikes. Here, I’ve shared just what I needed for the Inca Trail section.
I hiked the Inca Trail in the winter, meaning I needed to pack a few extra layers to stay warm. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you probably won’t need as much.
Your tent and mattress are normally included, so you don’t need to worry about packing this.
Essentials:
- Daypack
- Passport in a protective cover
- 800 Soles for tipping and extra snacks (confirm this with your tour company beforehand)
- Sleeping bag (hired through my tour operator)
- Sleeping bag liner (provided by the tour operator)
- Pillow (provided by my tour operator)
- Trekking poles
- Medicines (I took Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Immodium and antiseptic cream)
- 2 x reusable water bottles
Clothing:
- 1 x long-sleeved thermal top
- 3 x activewear t-shirts
- 2 x tops for sleeping/evening wear
- 1 x leggings (you might want shorts if you’re visiting in warmer months)
- 1 x hiking trousers
- 1 x pyjama bottoms
- 3 x fleeces
- 1 x long-sleeved sports jacket
- Down coat to stay warm
- Waterproof coat
- Waterproof trousers
- 3 x sports bras
- 5 x pairs of underwear
- 5 x pairs of socks
- Warm hat
- Sun cap (the weather is very changeable)
- Gloves
- Buff/neck gaiter
Footwear:
- Hiking boots
- Sliders for the evening
Toiletries:
- Dry shampoo
- Deodorant
- Tissues
- Face moisturiser
- Hand cream
- Hand sanitiser
- Lip balm
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Hairbrush
- Body wipes
- Suncream for body and face
- Mosquito spray
Other items & electronics:
- Portable charger
- Ziplock bags
- Some snacks
- Headphones
- Sunglasses
Weight restrictions on the Inca Trail
There is a strict limit on how much each porter can carry on the trail, which is generally limited to 20kg (44lb) per porter. I’ve been on hikes before where we were told there were weight limits, but this is the first time I’ve ever seen it imposed.
Generally speaking, each porter will carry two or three bags each, so the limit tends to be around 7kg (15lb) per hiker. This INCLUDES your sleeping bag and matress. This varies between operators, so it’s worth double-checking with yours.
Once you’ve taken the weight of your sleeping bag and air matress into account, there’s usually around 5kg (11lb) left for everything else. This is why choosing a light sleeping bag is a good idea.
The night before your trek begins, you’ll be given a duffel bag to keep most of your belongings. The duffel bag is for anything you won’t need during the day (you’ll need a daypack for anything you want while hiking between campsites).
The porters carry the duffel bag during the day, and you carry your regular day rucksack.
I saw people’s duffel bags get weighed every morning (so people can’t sneak anything extra in after it’s weighed on day one). If your bag is overweight, you must carry it in your day bag.
My group was lucky as six (!) out of nine tour members dropped out at the last minute. This meant we had enough porters for nine people, but there were only three of us. My bag was well within the limit, but they let us put some extra bits in from our day bags as some of the porters had little to carry.
However, for the most part, it’s essential to ensure your bag is within the weight limit. This is for the benefit of the porters and to ensure they are looked after. And ultimately, if it’s overweight, you’ll be the one carrying it.
The weight restriction can make packing for the Inca Trail a bit stressful. But this is why I’m here to help!
In terms of items you don’t need on the hike, most hotels and hostels allow you to leave your bags there. If not, check with your tour operator.
Weather variations
There are two main seasons on the Inca Trail – the dry season and the rainy season.
The dry season: This tends to be between May and September and also coincides with Peru’s winter. Rainfall is minimal, and temperatures are cool. Despite the cold nights, this is generally considered the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail and do a Machu Picchu tour. It’s also a great time of year to explore nearby attractions such as the Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain.
The wet season: The rainy season falls between November and March (April/October are a bit of a shoulder season). While temperatures are warmer, there can be very heavy rainfall. Despite the rain, many hikers opt to do the trek in these months to avoid the worst of the crowds.
The Inca Trail is closed in February.
In all honesty, when you visit doesn’t have much impact on what to pack for the Inca Trail. It can rain in the dry season, and it can still be cool in the warmer months.
For dry season visits – make sure to pack a few extra layers, especially for the evenings.
For rainy season visits – still pack a warmer layer, but consider some cooler clothes for the day.
The mountains can be very unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for all weather.
A Breakdown of what to pack for the Inca Trail
Essential items & camping equipment
Daypack | You won’t have access to your duffel bag during the day, so be sure to take a comfortable daypack to carry during the day. This should be big enough to hold extra layers, waterproofs, snacks and water (plus any necessary medicines). I used a 26-litre backpack for the trek, which was the perfect size.
Machu Picchu has restrictions on the sizes of bags you can take in. However, you can easily store these in lockers before you enter (and honestly, you’ll be pleased not to carry it around after having it on your back for four days).
Passport | The number one thing not to forget when packing for the Inca Trail is your passport. If you forget this, you won’t be able to start the hike or enter Machu Picchu.
I hate taking my passport on hikes! I get so concerned I’m going to lose it. But it is essential to take it with you (and no, a photocopy isn’t sufficient). I bought a handy waterproof cover for mine to help keep it dry.
Sleeping bag | For the most part, Inca Trail tour packages don’t include a sleeping bag. It’s usually possible to hire one when you book your tour. If not, you’ll need to take your own sleeping bag.
Remember that your sleeping bag will need to go within your main duffel bag, so try to pick a lightweight one that packs away nicely and small. It counts towards your overall weight limit.
In the winter months, it’s important to have one that covers below freezing temperatures.
Sleeping bag liner | These are handy little items that are a bit like bed sheets but for sleeping bags. They help to keep your sleeping bag clean and provide an extra layer of warmth. My tour included a sleeping bag liner (but not the sleeping bag), but you can check this when you book.
Pillow | Most tours include a pillow with the overall camping equipment. However, they’re not always the most comfortable. I spent two months overlanding Africa; this pillow was a lifesaver.
Money | Tipping the chef, porters, and your guide is standard practice at the end of your Inca Trail hike. I know it’s not the cultural norm for everyone, but your tips go a long way in Peru. They work incredibly hard and it’s a way of showing your appreciation.
Our guide encouraged us to group together and give the porters and chefs a fixed amount (80 soles for each of the porters, 100 for the assistant chef and 150 for the main chef). We were only a group of three, so it was a bit more than I expected. (The recommended amount to tip does increase over time, so take a bit more than what I’ve mentioned).
You can tip in USD or Peruvian Soles. Whatever you decide, you’ll need to take the cash with you. I recommend taking 800 soles / $200 USD. It’s more than you’ll need, but it covers you in case of any emergencies.
Walking poles | I recommend taking trekking poles on the Inca Trail. It’s an extra thing to carry, but there are so many concrete steps which can be harsh on the knees.
Medicines | It goes without saying that there are no pharmacies on the Inca Trail (well, there’s a small one on the first day). It’s essential to take any medication you need with you. The guides will sometimes have the basics like Paracetamol or Immodium, but not always. Consider anything you might need during the four days.
Small first aid kit | Your guide should have all the essentials, but items such as blister plasters and antiseptic cream could be useful.
Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder | Plastic bottles are banned on the Inca Trail (although they didn’t seem strict about this). Ensure you have at least a litre water bottle or bladder. The porters will boil and filter water for you to drink each morning so you can fill up your bottle every day.
I was glad I took two bottles. Although it was a lot to carry, I nearly always got through 1 litre before lunch. I took a 1-litre bottle and a 750ml bottle.
Footwear
Hiking boots | Deciding what shoes to wear can be a tough decision. Ultimately, you need something comfortable, has a good grip and offers ankle support. Choosing waterproof boots is a bonus!
You could technically hike in shoes or trainers, but I don’t recommend it. There are so many steps and the ground can be very slippery, especially when it rains. Walking boots will give you the most support.
My absolute favourite hiking boots are Merrell’s Moab Mid hiking boots. I find them so comfortable; they have incredible grip and are waterproof. I’m on my third pair now, and they’ve taken me all over the world. I couldn’t be without them.
Whatever shoes you go for, be sure to break them in beforehand. The Inca Trail is not the place for blisters!
Sliders/evening shoes | I recommend packing a pair of sliders for the evenings. You don’t want to wear your hiking shoes whenever you need to leave your tent. I’m sure your feet will appreciate a break from the boots in the evening too! Tevas are also a fantastic option.
Clothing
Next up on this Inca Trail packing list is clothing. Now, this is going to be an individual choice. Some people may want to change their tops during the day, others may be happy to stay in the same clothes the whole time (there’s no judgment here).
Here’s a quick overview of all the items to consider.
Tops | I suggest packing at least four tops to wear during the day. Whether you take long-sleeved or vests will vary depending on the time of year. For the winter, I was glad to have a long-sleeved top (and I didn’t need a vest). However, you may appreciate having a couple of vest tops during the warmer months.
Avoid cotton tops as they can be very uncomfortable to hike in. I opt for active tops which are usually made from sweat-wicking material. They also help to regulate your body temperature better.
It’s also a sensible idea to take a T-shirt or two for the evenings and to sleep in. It’s nice to change out of your dirty clothes before getting into bed.
Thermal layers | For those hiking the Inca Trail in winter, it’s essential to pack thermal layers. The nights can drop well below freezing! I packed a long-sleeved thermal top as well as a thermal fleece. The Inca Trail wasn’t as cold as the Salkantay, but I’m still glad I had them.
Even in the rainy season, the temperature can still drop below freezing at high altitudes. I suggest packing at least one thermal layer, just in case.
Hiking trousers | Pack at least two pairs of hiking trousers (these could be walking trousers or leggings). This means you’ll be wearing each pair for two days. That way, you’re covered for all scenarios.
Hiking shorts | It can get warm on the Inca Trail, especially between October and April. I packed a pair of shorts but didn’t need them, but I think you would in the warmer months. If you’re not sure which to take, consider trousers that can be converted into shorts.
Fleeces / warmer layers | During the night, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop well below freezing. Ensure you pack at least one warm fleece to help stay warm. Pack at least two fleeces if you’re hiking in the colder months like June, July and August.
Socks | I took a pair of socks for each day (4 pairs) plus a pair to wear in the evenings. Make sure the socks you choose are comfortable for hiking. I love the Merino Wool ones.
Underwear | This is a personal preference, but I suggest taking at least four pairs (and a spare pair). Ladies – don’t forget your sports bras.
Hat | Pack a nice woolly hat to keep your head warm. Mine was especially useful at night when the temperatures dropped.
Cap | During the day, it might get too warm to wear a hat. However, the sun can be very strong in the Peruvian Andes. Take a sun hat or cap for some extra sun protection.
Gloves | Walking with cold hands is never fun. If you have trekking poles, you’ll need to keep your hands exposed. Keep them warm by packing a pair of gloves. Consider waterproof gloves in the rainy season.
Buff | A buff or neck gaiter is a practical alternative to a scarf. You put it over your head and it helps to keep your neck, face and ears warm.
Pyjamas | Some people opt to sleep in their hiking clothes on the Inca Trail, and that’s fine. But personally, I can’t do that. If you’re like me, ensure you have a cosy pair of pyjamas for the evenings and nights.
A warm coat | With low temperatures at high altitude and during the night, be sure to pack a warm coat. I recommend a packable down jacket that’s lightweight and easy to carry during the day.
Waterproofs | The mountains are unpredictable; even in the dry season, it’s essential to pack a waterproof coat and trousers. If your clothes get wet on the Inca Trail, they won’t be easy to dry. Ensure you have a waterproof jacket and trousers to keep you dry.
Some tour operators provide a poncho. I found this helpful but not the most practical. I’m glad I had my coat and trousers.
Toiletries
The strict weight restrictions mean you’ll be limited with what toiletries you can take. In all honesty, you won’t need many. There are a couple of places to have a cold shower or to wash your hair in a sink, but unless you’re desperate, it’s not really needed.
Our guide and porters provided us with warm water and a clean towel to clean up every evening. Otherwise, I survived on wet wipes while on the Inca Trail.
Here’s a quick list of toiletries to consider:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Biodegradable body wipes or baby wipes
- Hand sanitiser
- Hand cream
- Lip balm
- Face SPF 50
- Moisturiser
- Body SPF 50 (the sun is very powerful at high altitudes)
- Female hygiene products
- Dry shampoo
- Hairbrush
- Spare hair ties
Useful items
Here are a few other useful items to add to your Inca Trail packing list.
Mosquito repellent | Most of the Inca Trail trek is through the cloud forest, which can annoyingly mean lots of mosquitos (especially at the lower altitudes). Don’t forget to pack some insect repellent to keep them at bay, and consider some bite cream in case you get bitten.
Dry bag | A dry bag is a handy item that helps to keep your valuables dry in bad weather. I didn’t bother with one on this trip, but if you have valuable items like a camera, you might want to consider a dry bag.
Ziplock bags | Ziplock bags can be very useful on a hike. I know they’re not always the most environmentally friendly, but they can be used to store your garbage, keep things dry or carry your snacks.
Electrolytes | I’ve reached a point in my life where I never, ever go on a long hike without some electrolytes. Not only do they keep you hydrated, but they replace all of the salts and minerals your body loses when you sweat. They’re especially good to help with dehydration from altitude sickness. I love these High5 ones.
Toilet paper or tissues | Your porters will set up a portable toilet at each campsite (and during lunch). Toilet paper is normally provided, but not always. Consider packing some toilet paper or tissues – they nearly always come in handy. The public toilets between the campsites won’t have any toilet paper.
Headtorch | I *almost* forgot my headlamp and I’m so relieved I didn’t. The campsites don’t have lighting so it can be difficult to get around without a headtorch. It’s also helpful for the early mornings when you have to get ready in the dark.
Small microfibre towel | Many tour operators provide you with warm water and a flannel to wash, but you still need a towel to dry yourself. I took a large one and majorly regretted it. Unless you’re planning to have a freezing cold shower, a small towel with suffice.
Sunglasses | Don’t forget your sunshades. The sun can be very powerful in the mountains.
Daypack waterproof cover | Consider taking a waterproof day pack cover. If it rains, it will help to keep your day bag dry. A poncho should cover your bag as well as you, but I still found having a cover helpful. You can buy a small one like this that doesn’t take up much room at all (some operators do provide these, so it’s worth checking before you buy one).
Portable charger | There’s no electricity on the Inca Trail. You’ll need to take a portable charger to keep your phone and camera equipment charged.
Camera equipment | If you’re a photographer, make sure to pack everything you need for your camera, including spare batteries, lenses and memory cards. You’ll need to carry this in your day pack.
Headphones | I’m all for enjoying the sounds of nature, but sometimes you need some motivation. I was happy to have some headphones to listen to motivational music and get through the tough parts.
Snacks | Most tour companies will provide snacks each morning, but I still think it’s worth taking a few things you like. I packed a few small packets of sweets and some chocolate.
Swimming gear | The hike ends in Aguas Calientes, home to some hot springs. If you want to visit these, remember to pack some swimming gear. Honestly, the hot springs aren’t that well-reviewed, so I wouldn’t worry too much about this.
Small pack of cards | A random one, but consider taking a small pack of cards to keep yourself entertained in the evenings.
What NOT to pack
Makeup | No one cares what you look like on the Inca Trail. Makeup weighs a lot, and do you want to wake up at 4am to apply makeup every day? Each to their own, but no thank you.
Large electrical equipment | I debated whether or not to take my iPad so I could watch TV in the evenings. I am SO happy I didn’t. I would have had to carry it in my day bag, and it was already heavy enough. I just downloaded a few bits to my phone while in Cusco.
Too many clothes | Try to pack what you think you need, not what you might need. No one will look their best on a multi-day hike, and no one cares if you’re wearing the same clothes for more than a day.
Valuables | Leave any non-essential valuables at your hotel or hostel (or somewhere safe). Items like laptops will easily get damaged on the hike.
Giant toiletries | You’ll only be on the Inca trail for three nights, so you don’t need to pack many toiletries. Try to find small pots to put essentials in, rather than carrying a giant tube or pot.
Other Inca Trail packing tips
Here are a few more tips to help you pack for your hike.
Weigh your duffel bag beforehand | Most hostels and hotels have some scales at reception. This means you can weigh your bag before starting the hike.
Leave anything you don’t need at your hotel | Most accommodations in Cusco are used to their guests going off on the Inca Trail hike, and they will happily store your luggage. I even left my laptop and had no problems. If not, some tour operators will care for them.
You don’t need to spend loads of money on gear | While the Inca Trail is a multi-day hike, you still don’t need to spend loads of money on gear and clothes. I get most of my hiking clothes from discount places like Decathlon and have no issues. Items worth investing in include hiking boots and a waterproof coat.
Hiking the Inca Trail on your period | This happened to me! It’s annoying, but it’s manageable so don’t panic. There was a toilet every couple of hours, so it was easy enough to manage. Ensure you have everything you need before starting the hike (a plastic bag, toilet paper, wipes and sanitary products). Feel free to email me if you have any questions about this; I know how worrying it can be.
You can hike the Inca Trail as a solo traveler | Slightly off-topic, but a shoutout to my fellow solo travelers visiting Peru alone. You need a registered guide to hike the Inca Trail, so it’s important to book a tour, but many people join the tours by themselves, including me! You’ll be with other hikers so you’ll never be truly alone. It does make packing a bit harder as you can’t share the weight of toiletries, but it’s still more than doable.
I hope you found this Inca Trail packing list useful! Feel free to print it out and use as a checklist for your trip to Peru.
Continue planning your trip to Peru with my guides:
👉 Is Peru safe for solo travel? All you need to know
👉 Discover why winter is the best time of year to visit Peru
👉 Why you MUST visit Manu National Park in the Peruvian Amazon
👉 An honest review of my trip to the Amazon Rainforest with Palatoa
👉 Discover whether the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek is right for you (and how to do both)
👉 Why I think Rainbow Mountain is overhyped
👉 An honest review of Peru Hop
👉 Visiting Lima’s CAT park (Yes – a CAT PARK)
