Here is your complete gear guide for Machu Picchu Adventure By Ian Taylor Trekking — trekking specialists with decades of experience guiding the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most iconic multi-day hikes — rich in history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Trekking this trail means dealing with variable weather, steep stone steps, and a mix of climates from misty cloud forest to high mountain passes. Having the right gear is essential to your comfort, safety, and success.
If you are thinking of trekking the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, my highest recommendation is to pick the classic itinerary. If you sign up to one of our trips we send you a 40 page dossier with an itemized kit list. Check out our upcoming trips.
What to Pack for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Expert Guide)
You will carry a daypack with daily essentials, while porters carry your main duffel with 10kg/22lbs. This list is divided so you know exactly what goes where.
Daypack Essentials (What You Carry Each Day)
Recommended size: 25–35 liters. Think about future trips. I personally use a Deuter 34L for our classic Inca Trail treks, on Kilimanjaro and trekking to Mount Everest.
- Waterproof daypack or rain cover
- 2 liter hydration bladder, plus a 1 liter Nalgene bottle
- Lightweight fleece or insulated jacket
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses
- Snacks / energy bars
- Camera or phone
- Small personal first-aid kit (blister care, meds)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper or tissues
Pro tip: If it doesn’t get used during the day, it doesn’t belong in your pack.
Duffel Bag (10kg/22lbs Carried by Porters)
Clothing – Layering Is Essential
Base layers
- 2 moisture-wicking trekking shirts
- 2 Sun hoddie
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 pair trekking pants (convertible preferred)
- Moisture-wicking underwear (merino works well)
Mid-layers
- Fleece or lightweight insulated jacket
- Down vest
Outer layers
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Waterproof pants
Cold-weather items
- Warm hat
- Liner gloves
- Light down jacket for evenings
Evenings & camp
- Fresh set of cloths for camp
- Sleepwear
Avoid cotton — it stays wet and cold.
Footwear
- Broken-in trekking boots with good grip
- 3–4 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Lightweight trail shoes for camp
Important: New boots cause blisters. Wear them before you arrive.
Sleeping Gear
- 3-season sleeping bag (comfort rating around -10°C / 15°F)
- Sleeping bag liner (This is optional) You can insulate your sleeping bag with down vest and down jacket.
Toiletries & Personal Items
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Biodegradable wet wipes
- Travel towel
- Personal medications
- Small toiletry kit (keep it minimal)
Electronics & Accessories
- Headlamp (essential)
- Spare batteries or power bank
- Camera + charger
- Plug adapter (Peru uses Type A/C)
Packing by Season
Dry Season (April–November)
- Cool nights, sunny days
- Warm layers are essential for evenings
- Rain gear still required — weather changes fast
Wet Season (December–March)
- Frequent rain and muddy sections
- Waterproof layers and dry bags are critical
- Gaiters are useful
Note: The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance.
What NOT to Bring
- Large backpacks
- Jeans or heavy cotton clothing
- Excess electronics
- Hard-cover books
- Unnecessary valuables
Less weight = more enjoyment.
Expert Packing Tips
- Daypack weight: Aim for 11lbs (6kg) max
- Use dry bags: Even in dry season
- Train with your boots and pack
- Label your duffel clearly
- Pack layers, not bulk
Inca Trail Packing FAQs
What size backpack should I use?
A 25–35L daypack is ideal.
Do porters carry my gear?
Yes. Porters carry your duffel; you only carry daily essentials.
Are trekking poles allowed?
Yes, but they must have rubber tips.
Is rain gear really necessary?
Absolutely — year-round.
How cold does it get at night?
Temperatures can drop below freezing at higher camps.
Final Thought on Packing
Packing well for the Inca Trail doesn’t mean packing more — it means packing smarter. With the right gear, you’ll move comfortably, sleep warmly, and fully enjoy one of the most legendary treks on earth.
If you trek with Ian Taylor Trekking, this packing list ensures you arrive prepared, confident, and ready for an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Best Months for Trekking to Machu Picchu
Pick the best months for trekking. The best months for trekking to Machu Picchu will be March to November. We are big fans of trekking in May, June, July and August. However, any month in the predominately dry season will work for trekking to Machu Picchu.
It will be warmer in March, April and October November. It is a little colder at night in May, June and July but these are three of our favorite months for trekking this famous trail.
Inca Trail Experts
Pick a team that are invest in the staff. We pay our porters 25% more than the regulated amount. We also support the village where most of our porters come from.
In Nepal we won the International Tourism award in 2019 and have build 4 schools. We have Kilimanjaro’s Number 1 guide leading our team on the ground. Read some reviews from our trips.
The Right Way to Trek into Machu Picchu
Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most rewarding hiking experiences in the world, combining breathtaking Andean mountain scenery with visits to extraordinary Inca archaeological sites such as Llactapata, Sacsaymarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
To truly enjoy this iconic trek, you need to pick the Classic Itinerary. To feel strong on the steep stone steps and high mountain passes, make sure you do very specific training. It’s essential to arrive physically prepared and properly trained.
With decades of experience guiding trekkers on the Inca Trail, we are here to help you prepare every step of the way. Learn more about how to train for the Inca Trail and contact our expert team for personalized advice to ensure your journey to Machu Picchu is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Inca Trail Trek: Packing Essentials for Your Machu Picchu Adventure
At Ian Taylor Trekking, we specialize in premium Inca Trail treks to Machu Picchu, offering carefully designed itineraries that prioritize safety, comfort, and an exceptional trekking experience. If you have any questions about what to pack for the Inca Trail or how to prepare for your trek, our expert team is always happy to help.
We offer a range of Inca Trail trekking options to suit different travel styles and schedules. Our most popular trip is the Classic 5-Day Inca Trail, which allows for the best experience staying in the best campsites with and a more relaxed pace.
For a fast paced shorter trip you should consider the Traditional 4-Day Inca Trail trek as an alternative. If you’re looking for a longer and more remote adventure, you may also consider the 6-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Or the Choquequirao trek, rated as one of the most scenic high-altitude routes in Peru.
Packing for Your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
Our video shows you everything that we would bring with us on the journey to Machu Picchu. If you decide to sign up to one of our trips, we send out a 40 page Dossier with a full itemized kit list and information on our specific trips to Machu Picchu.
If you are considering a trek to Machu Picchu, we highly recommend the 5 day itinerary. READ MORE. Then go directly to our 5 day Classic page for further information.
Contact The Experts
If you are considering a trek to Machu Picchu, then GET IN TOUCH today. We are available 5 days a week to assist with your trip of a lifetime! on the best trail into the magical city of Machu Picchu.