Packing List for Climbing Machu Picchu (What You Actually Need)

I still remember my first trek to Machu Picchu – a mix of excitement and pure naïveté in my packing. As someone who has hiked both the classic Inca Trail and the rugged Salkantay Trek, in both dry season sunshine and rainy season mud, I’ve learned the hard way what you actually need (and what you don’t).

This isn’t just another exhaustive checklist; it’s a personal journey through Andes packing triumphs and misadventures. Here’s a detailed guide to packing smart, staying comfortable, and keeping your load light and purposeful.

Inca Trail vs. Salkantay

Trail Realities: The Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek each offer a unique path to Machu Picchu – and they come with different logistics that affect your packing. On the Inca Trail, every hiker goes with a licensed guide company, and local porters carry the heavy gear.

Typically, you’re given a duffel with a strict weight limit (around 6–7 kg max) for your clothes and sleeping gear, which porters will haul from camp to camp. That means you only need to carry a light daypack with water, snacks, and essentials during the day.

In contrast, Salkantay treks (often run by tour operators too) usually employ mules or horses to carry that 6–7 kg duffel for you. Either way, you’re spared from schlepping the full burden – if you stick to the essentials. (If you go truly solo on Salkantay, you’ll be your own mule – an argument for packing extra light!)

Distance & Altitude

The Salkantay route tends to be longer and hits higher elevations than the Inca Trail. I found the higher altitude on Salkantay (up to 4,650 m at Salkantay Pass) made nights and early mornings bitingly cold – even colder than the Inca Trail’s highest point at Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m).

Salkantay’s campsites near glaciers mean you’ll want very warm night layers and a properly rated sleeping bag. The Inca Trail is slightly lower in elevation, and you spend more time in cloud forest jungle, so it’s a bit more humid. But don’t underestimate the Inca Trail’s climate either: nights on both treks can drop to freezing, and days can feel surprisingly hot under the thin mountain sun.

In fact, typical dry-season temperatures in the Peruvian Andes hover around 0–8°C at night and 18–22°C in the daytime, with the big difference being precipitation.

Crowds & Convenience

Another difference is what’s available (or not) along the way. The Inca Trail is a protected archaeological route – there are no shops or villages once you start, so forget about buying anything on the trail.

You pack it, you have it. Salkantay is more remote in parts but eventually connects with local villages (especially as you descend toward warmer climates). By Day 3 of my Salkantay hike, we passed a small settlement where a savvy local sold candy bars and cola. It was a welcome treat, but on the Inca Trail such luxuries don’t exist – I was glad I’d packed a few snacks myself.

Keep in mind that on either trek, you should bring any specialty items (like specific energy bars or electrolytes) from home or Cusco, as options on trail are limited or costly.

Support & Weight Limits

If you’re with an operator (as most are), use that duffel allowance wisely. 7 kg sounds like a lot until you realize it must include your sleeping bag (often ~2 kg) and maybe a sleeping pad if not provided.

Suddenly you’re down to a handful of kilos for clothes and toiletries. My strategy is to wear the same hiking outfit two (or even three) days in a row and pack just a couple of spare shirts and socks.

On the Inca Trail, I hired a half-porter for my pack so I could carry my camera gear – and I was still overstuffed. Lesson learned: pack only what’s truly necessary. Every extra “just in case” item will feel twice as heavy at 4,000 meters. Both treks will test your endurance, so lighten that load for a more enjoyable climb.

Dry Season vs. Rainy Season

Andean Weather 101

The Peruvian Andes really have two seasons: a cool, dry winter (May–Sept) and a wetter summer (Oct–Apr). Don’t be fooled by the term “summer” – it’s only a few degrees warmer than winter, but far rainier. In fact, there’s not a huge temperature difference through the year; what changes is the sky.

In dry season, you’ll likely get crystal clear days and chilly starry nights. In rainy season, you should expect at least some rain or mist daily, especially in the afternoons, plus lingering clouds.

I experienced both extremes: trekking the Inca Trail in late December (peak of the wet season) I slogged through non-stop rain and low-hanging clouds that obscured many views. There were moments I’d round a bend to a supposed vista and see nothing but white fog.

On the flip side, when I did Salkantay in August (dry season), I was rewarded with blue skies every day and even watched a spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu with no fog at all. Talk about magic!

Rainy Season Realities

If you do trek in the wet season (roughly November through March), prepare for the unexpected. A sunny morning can turn into a hailstorm by lunch. Trails get muddy and slick. I once hiked a whole day in a torrential downpour – poncho flapping, boots squelching with each step – and by evening I was miserable and soaked to the bone.

The next day, mercifully, the sun came out and we dried off. The key is to pack for rain even if you’re “hoping for sun”. Always have a quality rain jacket or poncho within reach, plus waterproof covers for your backpack and duffel. During the rainy months, I actually carry both a poncho and a rain jacket – a lightweight poncho can drape over you and your pack in a deluge, which saved me on the Inca Trail.

Quick-drying clothes are a must (nothing stays dry for long, and cotton is useless once wet). Also, bring extra socks – trust me, slipping into dry socks at camp after a soggy day feels heavenly, and you’ll want spare pairs since nothing dries overnight in the damp. (On a 4-day trek, 2 pairs of liner socks was fine in dry weather, but I packed 4 pairs for the rainy season to swap out more often.)

Pro Tip: In the rainy season, when that tropical rain hits, it hits fast and hard. You must be prepared with rain gear because a downpour can chill you quickly at high altitude.

Pack a small quick-dry towel or extra bandana too – you’ll use it to wipe condensation or rain off your face and gear. And if you’re camping in rain, keep your clothes inside dry bags; there’s nothing worse than discovering your last set of dry clothes got wet.

Dry Season Considerations

The dry season (winter in Peru) is the most popular time for these treks for good reason – pleasant days and far less rain. But “dry” doesn’t mean “easy.” The days can still range from intense sun at noon to near-freezing by midnight. In June on the Salkantay, I woke up to find my water bottle partly iced over.

By afternoon I was in short sleeves under a blazing sun. Layering is absolutely essential: you’ll be peeling layers off as you climb in the sunshine and piling them on again when you rest or once the sun sets.

Remember that at altitude the sun’s UV intensity is brutal – even if it’s a comfy 15–20°C, the solar radiation can burn your skin quickly. I learned this after lightly roasting my ears and neck on day one; now a wide-brimmed sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable in my pack. And though rain is less likely in dry months, still bring at least a lightweight rain jacket – weather in the mountains can always surprise you.

A fellow hiker on my “dry” July trek laughed at my rain gear… until we got sleeted on at 4,000 m for 10 minutes. He ended up shivering in a garbage-bag poncho handed out by our guide. Mountain weather can humble anyone!

Temperature Swings

At high camp, you’ll feel like it’s winter, but a few hours later down in the cloud forest, it’s summer. For example, on the Salkantay we started one morning bundled in thermal layers with frost on the ground.

By that afternoon, as we descended into lush green jungle, it was humid and we were sweating in T-shirts. Pack so you can handle both cold nights and warm days. This means a warm insulating jacket (down or synthetic) for evenings and a breathable hiking shirt or two for midday heat.

Even in the dry season, nights hovered around 0–5°C at our camps, so I was grateful for my fleece-lined leggings and wool hat at campfire time. The bottom line: pack for all seasons because you’ll likely experience them. As one guide told me, “Expect summer at noon and winter at midnight.” Dress in layers you can add or shed as needed.

Layering Up for the Andes

When it comes to clothing on a multi-day Machu Picchu trek, less is more – as long as you choose the right items.

You’ll wear the same few things repeatedly, so focus on layers, comfort, and quick-dry materials. Here’s what got me through rain and shine:

Base Layers

Moisture-wicking t-shirts or tank tops (2 is enough). Merino wool or high-tech synthetics are ideal – they keep you cool when it’s hot, and insulate when it’s chilly.

I made the mistake of bringing one cotton shirt on my first trek – once it got sweaty and wet, I was cold until I could change. I won’t do that again (“cotton kills” is an old hiking adage for a reason). For cooler mornings or at high passes, I loved having a long-sleeve thermal base layer top.

Merino wool thermals stay warm even damp and don’t stink easily, which is a blessing over 4–5 days. For your lower body, consider a pair of thermal leggings as a base at night or under pants on frigid days.

Mid Layers

This is your insulation while hiking. I typically wear a lightweight fleece pullover or hoodie as my mid-layer. Fleece is fantastic – warm for its weight and still insulates when a bit wet.

I also brought a thin down vest on one trek, which added core warmth without too much bulk. On my Salkantay hike (dry season), I often started trekking in a fleece at dawn and shed it by mid-morning. In the wet season, I hiked in a fleece all day under my rain gear because it was so damp and chilly.

Pro tip: Keep one clean mid-layer reserved for camp/evenings (like a heavier fleece or a packable down jacket). I’d stuff my cozy puffy jacket in the duffel to put on at camp – it felt amazing to change into a dry, warm layer after arriving, and it kept me toasty at night.

Outer Layers

Your shell layers are critical in the Andes. Waterproof rain jacket is a must – even in dry season, as noted. I carried a rain jacket every single day and used it not just for rain but as a windbreaker at exposed passes. Look for one that’s truly waterproof (taped seams, etc.) but also breathable.

In my rainy Inca Trail experience, I literally wore my rain jacket every day due to constant mist and showers. It doubled as a windbreaker when crossing Dead Woman’s Pass in a gale.

If trekking in the wet season, you might also pack rain pants or at least quick-dry hiking pants (more on pants in a second). In dry season, a light windbreaker jacket was handy for breezy mornings when rain gear felt too clammy.

Trekking Pants/Leggings

Bring 2 bottoms for hiking – for example, one pair of durable hiking pants and one pair of leggings or convertible pants. I personally like trekking in leggings (good stretch and no chafing).

In the rainy season, I wore leggings every single day under my rain shell pants. They kept my legs warm despite the drizzle. If you’re hiking in the “Andean summer” dry months, consider packing one pair of shorts or zip-off pants for hot afternoons.

I learned this on Salkantay when I hit jungle humidity – I was glad I had one pair of lightweight shorts for those lower elevations. Just remember to reapply bug spray if you expose your legs in mosquito country!

Camp/Sleeping Clothes

These are the clothes you only wear at camp and to sleep, so they stay clean(ish) and dry. For me, a set of warm pajamas (thermal top + fleece pants or tights) was gold.

I had fleece-lined leggings and a long-sleeve for sleeping, plus fresh socks reserved just for night. After a long day of trekking, peeling off your damp hiking clothes and putting on base-layer “sleeping clothes” is like heaven.

In the cold high camps, I sometimes even layered my down jacket over my sleep clothes until I was snug in my sleeping bag.

Pro tip: Never sleep in the clothes you hiked in if you can help it – they’ll be sweaty and wet, and you’ll get cold fast once you stop moving.

Underwear and Sports Bras

Pack enough to feel comfortable but don’t overdo it. I bring one pair of underwear per day of hiking (they’re tiny and lightweight, so I don’t mind having a clean pair each day).

Others are fine rinsing a pair or two and reusing – do what works for you. Just make sure they’re quick-drying, breathable undies (again, merino or sports synthetics are great; avoid cotton).

For those who need it, sports bras are essential – I’d suggest two, so you can rotate if one gets too sweaty or rain-soaked. Quick-dry sports bras can double as swimwear too (in case you hit hot springs).

Nothing is worse than a soggy bra or chafing underwear on a hike, so choose comfortable, moisture-wicking ones.

Accessories

Key accessories I won’t trek without: a sun hat (wide brim or cap with neck cover) for strong UV, a warm beanie for nights (small but life-saving when temperatures drop), and gloves. Yes, bring gloves – at least a lightweight thermal pair. In dry season I used simple fleece gloves and was fine.

In rainy season, waterproof or water-resistant gloves saved my fingers from numbness. If you run cold, consider layering thin liner gloves under thicker ones.

On Salkantay’s high pass, I wore two pairs of gloves (liner + ski gloves) and was just warm enough. Also, buffs or neck gaiters are great multipurpose items – use as a scarf for cold, headband for sweat, or even over your face to keep out dust on the trail.

Finally, a note on laundry: There is none. Whatever you pack, you’ll be wearing it unwashed for the trek’s duration (until maybe Aguas Calientes at the very end). It’s part of the adventure, and everyone else is in the same grubby boat.

Focus on function over fashion – but if you care about your Machu Picchu photo, consider packing one clean shirt or small “victory outfit” sealed in a bag for the last day. On my first Inca Trail, I didn’t do this, and I showed up at the Sun Gate in four-day-old, mud-stained pants.

The photos are authentic if not exactly Instagram-worthy. I’ve since seen trekkers pull a clean shirt or even a flag out of their packs for that final photo op. It’s totally optional (I usually can’t be bothered), but packing a fresh outfit for Machu Picchu is something you might appreciate when the moment comes!

Happy Feet on Rugged Trails

Perhaps nothing is more important than your footwear on these treks. Blisters or busted boots can ruin an otherwise amazing journey. Here’s how to treat your feet right:

Trekking Boots

You absolutely need sturdy, broken-in hiking boots – these trails are no place for brand-new shoes out of the box. Choose boots with good ankle support and a reliable grip.

The Inca Trail is famously steep and uneven, with thousands of stone steps (some slick with rain or mist). Salkantay has long stretches of rocky, muddy paths. I wore mid-ankle waterproof boots on both treks.

They saved my ankles on the descents and kept my feet dry through streams and mud. Make sure your boots are waterproof or at least water-resistant (Gore-Tex or similar), especially for the rainy season. One rain-soaked day on the Inca Trail, I felt like I was walking up a creek – but my feet stayed dry, which kept me from developing major blisters.

Meanwhile, a friend’s cheaper boots leaked, and she ended up with prune feet and hot spots by day two. Also, fit is crucial: your toes shouldn’t hit the front on downhill sections (toenail trauma is real on those big descents!).

And please, break them in with plenty of miles before Peru – don’t make your Machu Picchu trek their testing ground.

Socks

Invest in good hiking socks. I recommend merino wool or synthetic hiking socks that are padded and moisture-wicking. Wool sounds warm, but quality merino socks actually regulate temperature well and prevent blisters by reducing friction. Pack at least 3 pairs of full hiking socks for a 4–5 day trek.

I usually bring 4 pairs: three to rotate during trekking (so I can air one out on my pack if needed) and one pair reserved for sleeping (thick, cozy socks that stay clean and never hike in).

In rainy season, as mentioned, extra socks are a lifesaver – nothing like peeling off wet socks midday and putting on a dry pair to boost morale. Additionally, consider bringing liner socks (thin toe-socks or silk liners worn under your main socks). Some hikers swear by them to reduce blisters.

I started using toe-sock liners on the Inca Trail and didn’t get a single blister in 4 days – a minor miracle. They might look silly, but I’m now a devotee. Whether you use liners or not, avoid cotton socks at all costs; they hold moisture and rub your skin raw.

Camp Shoes

After 6-8 hours in boots, your feet will crave freedom. Pack a lightweight pair of camp shoes or sandals to wear in the evenings. This can be simple flip-flops, foam slides, or strap-on trekking sandals – whatever is comfortable and light. The key is giving your feet a break and letting your boots air out.

I brought cheap sports sandals (Teva style) that doubled as shower shoes in Aguas Calientes and for padding around camp. Some folks had down booties for camp – cozy, but not as useful if you need to walk on rocky ground or use the campsite toilets.

Sandals let your feet breathe, and they’re easy to pack. Just remember to shake them out before putting them on – one night I found a curious spider crawling in mine (lesson: always check your shoes in the Andes!).

Gaiters (Optional)

If you’re trekking in mud season or simply hate pebbles in your boots, you might consider gaiters. These are protective sleeves that cover your boot tops and lower legs to keep mud, water, and gravel out.

Honestly, for the Inca Trail in dry season I didn’t need them – the trail is well-built and not too debris-heavy. But on Salkantay in a muddy month, I did use ankle gaiters on the pass descent, which kept my boots from filling with grit and kept my pant legs cleaner.

They’re optional, but worth considering if you expect heavy mud or rain (especially in shoulder seasons when trails can get sloppy).

Foot Care Kit

Blisters can happen even with the best boots and socks. Pack a small foot care kit: a few bandages or blister plasters (Compeed), a bit of duct tape (great for covering a hot spot early), and maybe some foot powder or anti-chafe balm.

I was the unofficial blister medic in my group – and trust me, a bandage at the right time can save someone’s hike. Also, trim your toenails short before the trek to avoid bruising on descents.

These little preps make a big difference in keeping your feet happy over dozens of kilometers.

Lastly, listen to your feet. If you feel a hot spot while hiking, stop and address it immediately – don’t “push through” to the next break. I once ignored a slight rub on my heel during a long descent and ended up with a nasty blister that could have been prevented with 1 minute of duct tape.

A few minutes of TLC on the trail can save you a lot of pain later. Happy feet mean a happy hiker!

Gear & Essentials

Beyond clothing and boots, there are certain pieces of gear that are absolutely essential for a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu. These items will keep you safe, comfortable, and prepared for life on the trail and in camp:

Backpack (Daypack)

Since your main gear goes in a duffel carried by porters or mules, you’ll need a comfortable daypack (20–30 liters) for hiking. This pack holds everything you need access to while walking: water, snacks, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, etc. Aim for one with a good hip belt and chest strap – it should ride snugly and not flop around. I used a 28L pack which was plenty.

Make sure your pack has a rain cover (often built-in, or buy one) because Andean rain will soak through otherwise. Alternatively, some trekkers use a large poncho that covers themselves and the backpack together, which can work in heavy rain.

Inside my daypack, I like to organize things in smaller waterproof stuff sacks or Ziplocs (for example, one for snacks, one for electronics) to stay extra dry and organized. Remember, you might be carrying 5–6 kg in this daypack (water is heavy!), so don’t overpack it. Just the essentials for the day.

Trekking Poles

Take it from my aging knees: Trekking poles are a game changer. I consider them essential, especially on the Inca Trail’s endless stone stairs. Poles take pressure off your knees on steep downhills and help with balance on uneven terrain.

Even if you’re fit, by Day 3 your legs will thank you for using poles. I was stubborn on my first trek and didn’t bring them – big mistake. After hours of downhill, my legs were jelly. The next time, I had adjustable aluminum poles and it made the trek far more enjoyable.

You can bring your own (just remember to have rubber tips if required, since some trails don’t allow exposed metal tips on ancient stones) or rent them in Cusco or from your trekking company for a small fee.

If you’re unsure, at least try using a pole or two; most people end up loving them. Bonus: they’re handy for probing mud or helping ford small streams on Salkantay too.

Sleeping Bag

Nights in the Andes are cold, period. A quality sleeping bag is worth its weight. Check if your tour operator provides or rents bags; if not, bring one rated to around -10°C (14°F) or better.

I used a down sleeping bag rated to -15°C on the Salkantay in July and was snug as a bug even at 4,000 m. If you only have a 0°C bag, ask for extra blankets at camp (some guides have them) or consider a sleeping bag liner to boost warmth. Remember, the rating is often a survival rating, not a comfort rating – so err on the side of warmer.

Also, pack your bag in a waterproof compression sack to keep it dry in transit. Waking up at 3 am shivering because your bag got damp – not fun (seen it happen). Keep it dry, and you’ll sleep much better.

Sleeping Pad

Most guided treks supply a basic foam or inflatable sleeping pad for you. Check in advance. I got a foam mat on the Inca Trail and an inflatable on the Salkantay (luxury!).

If you’re a sensitive sleeper, you could bring your own lightweight inflatable pad for extra comfort, but it’s not strictly necessary if one is provided. I didn’t carry an extra, and I slept decently.

A little trick: if it’s very cold, lay out an emergency foil blanket under your sleeping pad – it reflects body heat back up. I did this on a particularly cold Inca Trail night and it helped insulate from the ground.

Headlamp

Campsites have no lighting, and nights start early in the mountains. A headlamp (with fresh batteries or a charge) is absolutely essential for finding your way to the toilet tent or simply rummaging in your duffel in the dark.

I carried a rechargeable headlamp with 400 lumens; it lit up the trail for those pre-dawn departures and late-night camp conversations. Bring one with a red-light setting if possible (red light is gentler on the eyes when you’re in a group tent or not trying to blind your friends).

Don’t rely on your phone as a flashlight – it’s not as practical and you’ll want to conserve phone battery for photos.

Water Storage & Filtration

Staying hydrated is key, especially at altitude. Plan to carry the capacity for 2 liters of water minimum. Whether you prefer a hydration bladder (Camelbak style) or water bottles is up to you. I like a 2L hydration bladder in my pack so I can sip hands-free as I hike.

Others use two 1L Nalgene bottles. Note that on guided treks, the crew typically provides boiled or filtered water each morning and at lunch to refill your bottles. On the Inca Trail, our porters boiled water nightly for us to use the next day. On Salkantay, our guide had a proper filter pump.

If you’re going independently or just as a backup, consider packing some water purification tablets or a small filter. I always carry a few Aquatabs for emergency, though I rarely needed them.

And a pro tip: fill your metal water bottle with hot water at night (if you have access to hot water) and stick it in your sleeping bag – it acts as a toasty foot-warmer for a few hours!

Personal Med Kit

Your guides will have a first aid kit, but I found it useful to bring a small personal kit with go-to meds: ibuprofen or paracetamol (for headaches and muscle aches), Imodium or charcoal pills (in case of traveler’s diarrhea – a long hike with an upset stomach is the worst), and any personal prescriptions.

Critically, pack some form of altitude medication or remedy. I brought Acetazolamide (Diamox) after consulting my doctor, and I started a low dose when I felt altitude symptoms on Inca Trail. It helped a lot with the nagging headache.

Also, coca candy or coca leaves are a traditional Andean option – I had coca candies in my pocket at all times; they’re cheap and widely sold in Cusco, and they genuinely gave me an energy and mood boost at high elevations.

Don’t forget basics like Band-Aids, lip balm with SPF (your lips will sunburn at altitude), and any allergy meds you might need. I also threw in some muscle rub for sore legs, which a fellow trekker gratefully borrowed.

Sun Protection

We mentioned the brutal UV rays – so be prepared. Sunscreen (SPF 50+) is a must, reapplied often. I also carried lip balm with SPF and wore sunglasses whenever the sun was out.

The Andean sun can also reflect strongly off light-colored rocks or off any snow at high altitudes, so good UV-blocking sunglasses protect your eyes. One friend without sunglasses got bloodshot, painful eyes from the glare up at Salkantay Pass – not something you want on holiday.

A wide-brim hat or cap completes the sun defense. This isn’t just vanity; sunburn or sunstroke will ruin your trek faster than you can say “Machu Picchu.”

Bug Protection

Surprise! There are mosquitoes and biting flies in parts of these treks – mainly at lower elevations (day 3 onward on Inca Trail, and after the Salkantay Pass as you enter cloud forest).

They love the warm, humid areas. I learned this the itchy way: forgetting bug spray on my Salkantay descent, I ended up with polka-dot legs from bites. Pack a small insect repellent (ideally with DEET or picaridin). Apply in the evenings around camp in the jungle zones and you’ll be much happier.

Some people also swear by long sleeves and long pants in those sections to avoid bites – another reason I liked my thin base layers, which I could wear to cover up without overheating.

Dry Bags/Plastic Bags

Given the likelihood of rain or just general dirt, I always pack a few dry bags or Ziploc bags to keep things dry and separated. For example, a dry bag for your clean clothes, another for dirty/wet clothes, and small ziplocks for electronics or documents.

I even put my phone and passport in a ziplock inside an inner pocket – belt and suspenders approach. When a freak downpour caught us during lunch one day, I was relieved to find all my stuff still dry inside the layers of plastic.

Garbage bags or pack liners can also work to line your daypack and duffel interior. And bring a spare plastic bag for used toilet paper or other trash you need to pack out (more on the toilet situation soon…).

Camera & Electronics

You’ll likely want to capture the stunning scenery. For many, a smartphone camera is enough – just bring a power bank to recharge it, since you won’t see an outlet for days.

If you carry a real camera, remember that’s extra weight; I carried a small mirrorless camera and found it worthwhile for the quality photos. Just ensure you have a waterproof case or dry bag for any electronics. Headlamp, phone, camera, Kindle… whatever you bring, assume it might get wet and pack accordingly.

A power bank ~10,000 mAh kept my phone and headlamp topped up for 4 days. And consider a spare battery for your camera if you’re snap-happy; cold weather can drain batteries faster.

Documents & Cash:

Don’t forget your passport – you actually need it to enter Machu Picchu at the end of the trek (they check, and you can get a cute passport stamp at the Sun Gate). Keep it safe from rain (ziplock again!).

Also carry some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small purchases. Typically, you’ll want to tip your guides and porters at the end. Plus, along Salkantay or at the train station, you might want to buy a snack or a beer.

I kept a folded stash of bills (small denominations like 10s and 20s) tucked in my inner pack pocket. My rule: Never put your passport or money in the outermost pocket of your pack – always secure them inside to prevent loss.

Now, a quick word on something often overlooked: toilets and hygiene. The reality is, on these trails bathrooms are… primitive. Inca Trail camps have outhouse-style squat toilets (bring your own toilet paper; it’s rarely provided). Salkantay camps might have basic facilities or you might be digging a hole if away from camps.

Either way, packing a toilet kit is essential: a roll of toilet paper (in a ziplock to keep it dry), hand sanitizer (soap and water aren’t always available), and maybe some flushable wipes (though remember you must pack out any wipes – don’t leave them). I also carry a small bottle of biodegradable soap and a quick-dry camp towel to freshen up if water is available.

On the Inca Trail, there were cold-water basins at camps where I could rinse my face and dusty legs – small luxuries! On Salkantay, one campsite even had solar-heated showers (emphasis on warm-ish not hot).

Having a tiny soap and towel meant I could take advantage of that and feel halfway human again. But many nights, “showering” was a matter of baby wipes and grit. Embrace it as part of the adventure. Just remember to pack out any trash. Your future self (and the environment) will thank you.

Before moving on, let me address one uncomfortable topic, in the spirit of being truly prepared: dealing with your period on the trail (for those who menstruate). Altitude and exertion can sometimes throw off your cycle, so even if you’re not expecting it, it’s wise to pack some tampons/pads or a menstrual cup just in case. You won’t find supplies on the trail.

If you do use disposables, carry a few small ziplock bags and maybe odor-neutralizing bags to pack out used products (never bury or leave them – everything must leave with you).

I was thankful I had a “just in case” tampon tucked away for a fellow trekker who was caught off guard. It’s one of those things no one likes to talk about, but being prepared will save you a lot of stress.

Alright, now that we’ve covered the must-have gear, let’s put it all together in a handy at-a-glance list. Below is a practical table of essential items you’ll want for either trek, broken down by category:

Essential Packing List Overview – Inca Trail & Salkantay (Multi-Day)

(Note: Items marked as “optional” depend on personal preference – include them if they add comfort or convenience for you. The goal is to pack what you actually need and will use.)

“Wish I’d Known” Moments and Pro Tips

After four treks to Machu Picchu (two routes, two seasons), I have a few hard-earned tips and hindsight wisdom that can help you pack and prepare smartly:

Don’t Overpack “Just in Case”

I get it – it’s tempting to throw in extra gadgets or that third pair of pants “just in case.” But every ounce counts when you’re at 14,000 feet gasping for air. My rule now: if I’m not certain I’ll use it, it doesn’t come.

On my first trek, I lugged a bulky DSLR camera and a GoPro, plus a book, and even a travel-size board game (!). I used the DSLR a bit, the GoPro once, and the book and game not at all – they were dead weight. The happiest trekkers I’ve seen are the ones with smaller packs.

Focus on the essentials listed above and resist the urge to pack for every conceivable scenario. Your knees and back will thank you when you’re climbing steep Inca stairs.

Layer Smart and Versatile

Think of your clothing in terms of a layering system rather than discrete outfits. Each piece should ideally work in combination: base layer + mid layer + shell. Everything I packed had a purpose and could be layered.

For example, my fleece doubled as a pillow, my rain jacket often served as a windbreaker, my sarong was both a changing skirt and a towel. Multi-use items are gold.

And remember, you can always wear multiple layers at once if it’s colder than expected – but if you didn’t bring a warm jacket at all, you’re out of luck. So it’s better to have one really warm layer than two mediocre ones, and better to have one rainproof layer than several “water-resistant” things that won’t cut it.

Break In Gear Beforehand

This goes especially for boots, but applies to any pack or clothes as well. Wear your gear on practice hikes at home.

Load up your backpack and do a 5–10 km walk. Sleep a night in your sleeping bag if you can (even if it’s on your balcony or in your yard) to make sure it’s warm and comfy enough.

I discovered my new rain jacket chafed on the neck before the trip, so I lined the collar with a soft cloth – avoided a nasty rash that would have happened if I’d only worn it on the trail. Little things like this can make a huge difference.

Altitude Awareness

Altitude sickness can affect anyone – I saw a marathon runner struggle while a less fit trekker was fine. Acclimatize in Cusco for a couple of days before your trek if possible.

Hydrate well, avoid too much alcohol, and consider those coca leaves or altitude meds we discussed. From a packing perspective, bring whatever remedies you know work for you (prescription meds, ginger candies for nausea, etc.). And don’t plan to rush off to hike Rainbow Mountain the day after Machu Picchu; give your body some rest.

My itinerary included one extra day in Cusco after the trek just to sleep in a real bed and recover – best decision ever.

Hydration and Nutrition

Drink water consistently, even if you’re not thirsty (at altitude you dehydrate faster). Pack a few of your favorite electrolyte tablets or hydration packets to add to your water – it helps with fatigue and recovery. I liked having Nuun tablets to make a sort of lemonade; it encouraged me to drink more.

Also, while tour cooks provide ample meals (and they are usually amazing), I found bringing a few comfort snacks really nice. For me, it was some dark chocolate and beef jerky. When I was exhausted at 4,000 m, nibbling a bit of chocolate felt like a morale boost.

Just don’t bring anything that melts too easily (milk chocolate might turn to goo). And pack out any wrappers, of course.

Camp Life Hacks

Evenings can be chilly and long after sunset (which happens around 5:30–6:00 pm year-round in Peru). Once you reach camp, you’ll have downtime. This is when that down jacket and dry camp clothes pay off – put them on ASAP before you get cold.

I’d also make a hot drink if hot water was available (I carried a few tea bags and instant cocoa packets). A warm drink in your hands while watching the stars come out over the Andes is bliss. Also, bring a few earplugs for sleeping – camps can be noisy.

The sounds of nature are lovely; the sounds of a dozen trekkers snoring in tents, less so. I learned to always have earplugs after a sleepless night next to a champion snorer on the Inca Trail.

Toilet Talk

Let’s get real – you will have to use some not-so-glamorous bathrooms. Squat toilets, hole-in-the-ground outhouses, or just the great outdoors if urgent. Always carry a bit of toilet paper and hand sanitizer in a readily accessible pocket.

There were times I needed them during the day between official stops. And for the ladies, a pee funnel (like a Shewee) is something to consider if squatting is difficult – some trekkers swear by them.

I personally managed fine without, but I did envy a friend’s ability to avoid dropping her pants in the freezing wind on Salkantay by using her funnel discreetly. Even if you don’t go that route, a modesty skirt or sarong can help – I used mine as a makeshift “privacy shield” when nature called on an open mountainside with little cover.

It sounds funny, but it was a savvy hack that saved me embarrassment on more than one occasion.

Enjoy the Experience

Finally, a tip that’s less about packing and more about mindset. Enjoy every moment, even the challenging ones. There will come a point – maybe slogging up Dead Woman’s Pass or trudging through Salkantay’s rain – when you question why you signed up for this.

You might be cold, wet, tired, and cursing your alarm clock as it wakes you at 4:00 am for a pre-dawn hike. But I promise, when you finally walk through the Sun Gate or catch that first glimpse of Machu Picchu from the jungle below, it is all worth it.

Every blister and every shiver becomes a badge of honor. So pack with care, but once you’re out there, try not to obsess over what you might be missing or if you brought the “wrong” fleece.

By then, the best thing you can do is embrace the adventure. Some of my fondest memories are of things going slightly “wrong” – rainstorms, forgotten items, quirky situations – because they turned into great stories and bonding moments with fellow trekkers.

Conclusion

Climbing to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail or Salkantay is not just a hike, it’s a life experience. With the right packing strategy, you’ll be prepared for whatever Pachamama (Mother Earth) throws at you – be it pounding rain, blazing sun, or bone-chilling cold.

The goal is to carry a pack that supports you without breaking you. Every item in your bag should have a purpose, and if it doesn’t, leave it behind.

Trust me, you won’t miss the extra fluff when you’re standing atop a high pass, lungs burning but heart full, watching clouds swirl around snow-capped peaks.

In those moments, you realize you already have everything you truly need.

Now I pass on these insights in hopes that you, too, will feel at home in the mountains with just the right gear on your back. Happy trekking, and ¡buen viaje!