The Inca Trail Packing List
Are you wondering what to pack when heading on the Inca Trail?
This classic Inca Trail 4 Days traverses all kinds of terrain and topographies, which means it’s essential to be properly prepared before setting off. This includes knowing what to pack, and also considering other extra items depending on you and your personal preferences.
In this guide we’ll explore our very own Inca Trail packing list, covering all of the essential items you’ll need to bring with you. We’ll also answer any other questions you may have at this point in our FAQ section.
Table of Contents
The Inca Trail Packing List
Quick Answer: There’s many different items and clothing you’ll need to pack when heading on the Inca Trail.
Firstly you’ll need several warm layers, including base layers, a warm coat as well as a poncho in case it rains during your trek. Quality gloves and a thick hat are also essential to keep your extremities warm (the latter also for preventing sunburns during the day).
There are various accessories and other essentials you’ll need to make room for too. This includes a sleeping bag, toiletries, sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellant and of course your Passport.
Below we’ll now cover the full list of what you’ll need during your Inca Trail trek.
Our Full Packing List For The Inca Trail
Below is our comprehensive packing list for the Inca Trail. Remember that if you do forget to bring certain items, you can easily buy them in Cusco before starting your hike.
Essential Documents And Items
- Passport: You can’t start the Inca Trail until your passport details are checked and confirmed with your permit at the Km.82 checkpoint. Photocopies won’t work instead of the original passport, and it must be the same passport you used when booking the Inca Trail tour. If you renew your passport after making the booking, it is essential to update the passport number. To facilitate this, please send us a photo of both the old and new passports. Ensure it is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Student Card: Students under 17 years old are eligible for a discount with just their passport. Those under 25 can receive a student discount if they present a valid student card. This card must include the student’s name, photo, and expiration date.
- Travel Insurance: Covering trekking in higher altitudes. The highest you get on the Inca trail is 4200 meters above sea level.
- Cash: for buying extras along the way as well as for tipping. Peruvian Soles are preferred.
Essential Gear & Equipment For Hiking To Machu Picchu
There is no strict size limit for backpacks on the Inca Trail; you may choose a small or large pack based on your comfort. However, a backpack with a 25 to 40-liter capacity is recommended for its balance of portability and adequate storage space.
A sleeping bag liner is an essential accessory for the Inca Trail, offering both added warmth and improved hygiene. Designed to be lightweight and compact, it serves as an extra layer inside the sleeping bag, enhancing insulation during cold nights at high altitudes.
Plastic bottles are prohibited on the Inca Trail to help preserve the environment and reduce waste. Hikers are encouraged to bring either a water bladder or a reusable water bottle, depending on personal preference, to stay hydrated during the trek.
Trekking poles are essential for hiking the Inca Trail due to the numerous steep ascents and descents encountered along the route. The trail includes thousands of uneven stone steps, which can place significant strain on the knees, particularly during long downhill sections.
There is no electricity at Inca Trail campsites, so a light source is essential for navigating to toilets and preparing early in the mornings. While flashlights work, headlamps are recommended as they keep your hands free, offering greater convenience for various tasks in the dark.
There is no access to electricity along the Inca Trail, so it is essential to bring a fully charged power bank. This ensures that you can keep your devices powered throughout the trek and capture every memorable moment and breathtaking view along the journey without interruption.
We will provide foam mattresses for your rest during the 4-day Inca Trail hike. However, if you prefer extra comfort, you are welcome to bring your own mattress or rent one from us. You may place your air mattress on top of our foam mattress.
Bringing an inflatable or blown-up pillow for the 4-day Inca Trail trek is highly recommended. It offers essential comfort for restful sleep, reduces backpack weight, and provides a compact solution that minimizes bulk and strain, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient journey.
For the Inca Trail, it is recommended to bring a three-season, down-filled sleeping bag that is rated for temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). This ensures adequate warmth and comfort during the cold nights at higher altitudes, where temperatures can drop significantly.
Headgear To Hike The Inca Trail
A hat is an essential companion for hiking the Inca Trail, providing vital sun protection. We recommend a wide-brimmed hat for more comprehensive coverage, including the back of your neck, which is susceptible to sunburn. Ultimately, choose based on personal preference and comfort.
Sunglasses are essential for the Inca Trail, where the sun’s intensity can be overwhelming, especially at high altitudes with clear skies. UV rays are stronger, so sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and harmful rays, ensuring safe and comfortable hiking conditions.
The weather on the Inca Trail tends to be quite cold, especially during the mornings and evenings. In particular, during the winter months, temperatures can drop to freezing levels. To ensure comfort, it is advisable to bring a warm beanie or other headgear to protect against the chill.
We recommend packing a versatile bandana or buff for your Inca Trail hike. This multifunctional item serves as a headband to absorb sweat, a neck gaiter for warmth, or a face covering to protect from dust and sun exposure, making it an essential gear addition.
We recommend bringing a hair band if you have long hair. It is advisable to wear your hair up while hiking the Inca Trail to ensure comfort, improve visibility, and prevent any distractions caused by wind or movement during the trek through varying terrain.
It is recommended to bring earplugs for the Inca Trail if you are sensitive to noise while sleeping. At the final campsite, hikers and porters sleep in close proximity, and early morning movements and sounds can easily disturb your rest before the final trek.
Clothes
For a 4-day hike on the Inca Trail, it is advisable to pack two to three lightweight, quick-drying shirts made of synthetic material or merino wool. These fabrics are ideal for managing moisture and keeping sweat away from the body in varying weather conditions.
Consider packing 1-2 lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirts for sunburn protection while trekking Inca Trail. These shirts not only shield you from the sun but also help guard against mosquitoes, which are more prevalent from August to November during the mosquito season.
The temperature on the Inca Trail can change rapidly, especially on the second day. During this time, a fleece jacket or pullover becomes essential. Be sure to have it readily available in your daypack to stay comfortable amidst fluctuating weather conditions.
When you finish hiking each day and arrive at the campsite, the temperature often drops significantly in the evening and early morning—especially on the first and second nights. As a result, a down jacket will become an essential companion to keep you warm and comfortable.
Regardless of the season, whether rainy or dry, it is essential to bring a rain jacket when hiking the Inca Trail. Due to global warming, the weather can change unexpectedly, so having your rain jacket readily available in your day pack is crucial for protection.
During the rainy season, from December to March, a rain poncho is essential on the Inca Trail. On the third day, you pass through a rainforest area where heavy rainfall is common. A standard raincoat is often insufficient to provide adequate protection from the persistent rain.
The windbreaker is optional for the Inca Trail; however, it can be helpful, especially during colder mornings and evenings. While not essential, bringing one during the dry season can prove useful in providing extra warmth and protection against wind, ensuring a more comfortable experience
Pack two pairs of lightweight, moisture-wicking, quick-dry pants for the Inca Trail. Convertible zip-off pants are especially recommended, offering versatility in changing weather conditions. Their breathable fabric and quick-drying capabilities provide comfort and practicality, making them an ideal choice for trekking in variable mountain climates.
Bring a base layer for added warmth during colder nights or early morning hikes on the Inca Trail. Temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations, making a thermal layer essential for maintaining comfort and preventing chills in changing mountain weather conditions
A pair of lightweight shorts is ideal for the warmer sections of the Inca Trail. However, if you are sensitive to mosquitoes, it is not recommended, as the shorts may leave you exposed to insect bites, especially in areas with dense vegetation.
If you are considering hiking during the rainy season from December to March, it is highly recommended to invest in lightweight, breathable rain pants. These will provide essential protection from the rain while ensuring comfort and mobility, allowing you to enjoy your hike despite the weather.
When preparing for the Inca Trail, bring four pairs of quick-drying, breathable underwear. These are essential for comfort and hygiene during the trek. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture, increases chafing risk, and takes longer to dry, which can lead to discomfort and skin irritation.
For women hiking the Inca Trail, it’s essential to pack 2-3 sports bras that provide both support and comfort. These bras will ensure you stay comfortable during long, strenuous days of hiking, helping to minimize discomfort and maximize performance throughout the trek.
Your underwear serves as the first layer of clothing. For a comfortable hiking experience, it is advisable to have 2-5 pairs of breathable underwear. Opting for sports underwear specifically designed for high-intensity activities is recommended.
On the Inca Trail, sudden weather changes can bring intense cold. In such conditions, wearing gloves becomes essential, especially when using hiking poles. Proper gloves not only protect your hands from the cold but also ensure a firm grip, enhancing both safety and comfort
Footwear
It is highly recommended to wear trekking shoes or hiking boots with good soles for the Inca Trail, as you will encounter both uphill and downhill terrains with rocky paths. Choose between the two options based on your preference, especially if you’re experienced with hiking shoes.
For the Inca Trail campsite, we recommend lightweight shoes or sandals with sturdy soles. These will be ideal for walking around the campsite and comfortable enough for use during showers. A well-designed sandal ensures convenience and support after a long day of trekking.
To prevent blisters and maintain dryness, choose moisture-wicking, cushioned socks. Wool or synthetic blends are preferable to cotton for better comfort and durability. Many of our clients prefer thick merino hiking socks. We recommend having at least four pairs for optimal support.
Gaiters are optional but provide extra protection against mud, water, and similar elements. Although not essential, they can be highly beneficial in certain conditions. It is advisable to bring them during the rainy season, from December to March, when the weather is wetter and more challenging.
If you require extra arch support or cushioning while trekking the Inca Trail, consider investing in high-quality insoles. These can significantly enhance comfort, reduce foot fatigue, and prevent injuries during the hike, ensuring a more enjoyable and supportive experience throughout the demanding journey.
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Opt for travel-sized toothpaste to save space.
- Biodegradable Soap: Choose a multi-purpose soap for body and hair that is eco-friendly.
- Wet Wipes or Face Wipes: Useful for freshening up when showers are not available.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for maintaining hygiene when soap and water are not accessible.
- Quick-Dry Towel: A lightweight and compact towel that dries quickly is ideal.
- Deodorant: Consider a small, travel-sized deodorant.
- Toilet Paper: Pack a small roll or carry individual tissue packs; not all restrooms along the trail provide toilet paper.
- Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen to protect against the strong UV rays at high altitudes.
- Lip Balm with SPF: To prevent chapped lips.
- Insect Repellent: A DEET-based repellent is effective against mosquitoes and other insects.
- Feminine Hygiene Products: If applicable, bring enough supplies for the duration of the hike. Consider environmentally friendly options like menstrual cups.
- Swimsuit (optional): If you decide to extend your stay in Aguas Calientes by an additional day, you might want to bring a bathing suit.
- Razor: It is not entirely necessary, but it feel good to have a quick shave in the shower on the third day.
- Travel-size Shampoo and Conditioner: Choose biodegradable options, and decant them into small containers if necessary.
First Aid Kid For Inca Trail
- Rehydration Salts: To prevent or treat dehydration, especially in cases of diarrhea or high altitude.
- Pain Relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen): For headaches, muscle aches, or fever.
- Moleskin or Blister Pads: To protect against blisters from prolonged hiking.
- Elastic Bandage: For sprains or strains.
- Antiseptic cream: It help cleanse and protect minor wounds from infection.
- Altitude Sickness Medication: Such as acetazolamide (Diamox) to help prevent and treat altitude sickness.
- Personal Prescription Medications: Any medication prescribed by your doctor, enough for the duration of the trip.
- Anti-diarrheal Medication (e.g., Imodium): To manage diarrhea, which can be common in remote areas.
Electronic
- Camera: If you’re an enthusiast who wants higher-quality photos than what a smartphone offers, a compact camera or a DSLR can be an excellent option.
- E-Reader/Book: If you enjoy reading, an e-reader like a Kindle is a lightweight alternative to carrying multiple physical books. It can provide entertainment during downtime.
- Solar-Powered Charger (Optional): In areas where electrical outlets are unavailable, a small solar-powered charger can be useful to recharge devices during breaks in the daylight.
- Extra Batteries (For Devices): Some devices, such as cameras and headlamps, use batteries, and spare ones can be critical to ensure that you don’t run out of power during the trek.
Frequent Asked Questions
Can I Wear Shorts On The Inca Trail?
This really depends on you and your own comfort, although we prefer hiking trousers which are more comfortable. If you’re okay with the cooler temperatures then you can wear shorts on the Inca Trail, although please be aware that certain months can get really cold (such as July where temperatures can drop below 32°F!).
What Backpack Size Is Best For The Inca Trail?
Firstly it’s important to remember that you’ll always have a personal porter available to carry your extra things. However even then, we still recommend that your daypack is between 15-25L, which is plenty for any extra clothing or kit. Anything more and it can get uncomfortable and slow you down.
Do You Need To Wear Gloves On The Inca Trail?
Temperatures on the Inca Trail can get pretty cold at night (between 25-35°F), so wearing gloves is essential. Your hands tend to be the part of your body that gets cold the quickest, and also receives the most overall complaints too during the cooler weather. So be sure to avoid this by packing thick and high-quality gloves!
The Inca Trail Packing List
And that’s all for this guide on what to add to your packing list for the Inca Trail.
Preparation is key for having both a successful and enjoyable hike, and this is especially true when heading on the Inca Trail. Having read this guide you’ll now know exactly what you need to pack, which includes warm layers, high quality hiking boots, a comfortable sleeping bag and insect repellent.
Now that you know what to pack, it’s now time to make sure you are physically prepared yourself before heading on the Inca Trail.