What to Bring to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

THE INCA TRAIL: WHAT TO BRING TO MACHU PICCHU

The Inca Trail is a quite demanding hike, so you need to have good physical and mental preparation. During this hike, you will pass through different landscapes, some more challenging than others and vice versa. Therefore, let’s find out what to bring to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

WHAT TO BRING TO THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU:

Personal documents with which you made your reservation to verify information. In the case of being a student and reserving with your student ID, you will need to bring your ID.
Passport
Immigration card (given on the plane when entering Peru)
Good backpack (the smaller, the better). In this link, we will give you some tips for choosing your travel backpack.
Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
Camera (optional)
Music (optional)
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips

FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG:

While it is true that the porters will help you by carrying your belongings during the Inca Trail, you must be aware that the load limit for porters according to Porter Law No. 27607 is 20 kilograms.

A personal porter can carry a weight of 5 kg / 11.02 pounds (The price includes the personal porter who will carry your things, up to a maximum of 6 kilos, including the sleeping bag: 2kgs).

THINGS I CAN PUT IN MY DUFFEL BAG:

Within the list of what to bring to the Inca Trail, certain characteristics regarding the Duffel must be considered.

Appropriate clothing: Choose comfortable and lightweight garments that are breathable and quick-drying. Include T-shirts, long and short pants, trekking socks, and a waterproof jacket to protect yourself from rain and wind. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Sturdy footwear: A pair of comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes are essential. Make sure they are properly worn to avoid blisters and chafing. Also, bring a pair of sandals or lightweight shoes to rest your feet at the end of the day.
Sleeping bag and mat: For nights on the trail, you will need a quality sleeping bag and an insulating mat to provide comfort and warmth. Opt for lightweight and compact models that fit easily in your backpack.
Personal hygiene items: Don’t forget to include a quick-drying microfiber towel, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant. Also, bring a plastic bag to dispose of your waste properly.
First aid kit: Prepare a small first aid kit with bandages, dressings, pain relievers, motion sickness medications, and any other personal medications you may need. Make sure to include sunscreen and insect repellent.
Trekking equipment: Bring a headlamp with spare batteries, a multi-tool knife, an emergency whistle, a compass, and a map of the Inca Trail. These items will help you navigate and handle unexpected situations.
Additional items: Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle, energy snacks, cash (Peruvian soles), and your passport. It is also useful to bring a camera to capture the incredible moments along the way.

Other things you can bring to the Inca Trail are:

2-3 polo shirts
2-3 hiking pants
4 sets of underwear
4 sets of hiking socks
Warm jacket to protect against the cold at night
1 waterproof jacket/rain poncho and pants
Sun hat
1 wool hat
Headlamp
Waterproof gloves
Comfortable camping shoes (sandals)
Trekking shoes
Towel
Water bottle (as we provide warm water every day for cleaning; it could make you feel fresh)
Battery charger: There’s no place to plug it in during the trek!
Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean and dirty.