Packing List for The Classic Inca Trail in 4 Days for 2024

 The basic notion of packing and preparing for the Inca Trail in 2024 is keeping in mind that you will face a variety of conditions during the trek and it’s very important to reduce the weight to a minimum. Avoid extra tough carrying your day backpack during the trek, and for the porters, who have limited kilograms to carry including campsite gear and your extra belongings.

During the Inca Trail, you will deal with intense heat, strong sun, and cold mountain nights, which can get below zero while camping at night. For further information, we invite you to watch this video.

The best way to deal with all the different temperatures and extremes on the Inca Trail is to dress using several clothes layers rather than using one jumper expecting it’s enough for whole trek.

In case you forget to take something for the Inca Trail, no need to panic, you can get all the rest in Cusco, or opposite leave in your hotel things you won’t use while hiking the 4-day Inca Trail.

Also note that what you have to pack for the Short 2-Day Inca Trail is totally different to what you will learn in this article. Please also check our post on how difficult the Short Inca Trail is and/or also learn a bit more on the same Short 2-day Trail itinerary.

Packing Clothes for Inca Trail in 2024

Don’t forget hiking pants in your Packing list!

As mentioned, the best way to pack your clothes for the Inca Trail is in layers. This way you don’t need to pack too many things, but packing smartly and with a little help, you will be prepared for every day on Inca Trail! See below the clothing items we suggest you pack for the trek.

• • Underwear and base layers. For ladies advisable to bring a pair of sports bras
  • 3 short sleeve shirts
  • 1 long-sleeve shirt. Don’t use cotton for the trek, this material takes longer to dry, bring polyester ones instead.
  • 1-2 hiking or comfortable trousers and shorts. Ideal if you have 2in1 hiking pants with zippers to make it as shorts!
  • Warm jacket. Better if it has a hoodie, if not get a hood, you may need it to keep your ears on the chilly nights at the campsite.
  • Rain gear/poncho. In a dry season very little possibility for rain, but better pack it, as it won´t take much space but in case will save your day!

Packing the Head Gear for Inca Trail in 2024

Very important to mention and must have on your packing list for the Inca Trail, the sun gets very strong during the day, stronger than normal probably from where you are, here you will hike at high altitude and the sun can badly burn, so it is very important save your head from unwelcome effects after being long in the sun during daytime. Also, chilly nights require some head warmth, have a hat, if you don’t have one, you can easily and cheaply get one in Cusco! Here is a short list to protect your head:

• • Sun hat
  • Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Headlamp/torch- no electricity at the campsite, quite a useful tool in need to prepare your bed or find services.

Inca Trail Walking – Packing List 2024

Have you got comfortable hiking shoes in your packing list?

During the Inca Trail, you will hike between 6-9 hours per day, very important to be prepared and enjoy the views during the walk but not sore feet.

• • Walking poles – great stuff to add to your Inca Trail packing list, helps with your balance, reduces weight for your legs, great helps to keep safe going down steep stairs. We have them for rent at the agency.
  • Hiking boots – don’t try your luck with brand-new hiking boots, you will probably end up with painful blisters after the first day. Choose your oldies to secure comfort for your feet.
  • Bottle of water – we would highly recommend using a refillable bottle, you will be provided with water every day, this way you and all trekkers reduce the pollution and plastic rubbish on the Inca Trail. Check our article about the disposable plastic ban in Peru.

Other Key Accessories – Inca Trail Packing List 2024

Few other accessories necessary to have on the packing list for the Inca Trail, for you to enjoy the trek!

• • Sleeping bag – very important! Try to get a good quality feather sleeping bag. You can rent a good quality sleeping bag with us in Cusco.
  • Camera and extra batteries as there are no charging points along the trail.
  • Cash for tips to porters, guide and small purchases, access toilets at Machu Picchu, etc.
  • Toiletries – toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, travel soap.
  • Snacks – energy bars, mixed nuts
  • General medicines small box
  • Wet wipes – great for quick cleaning of your hands or face.
  • Insect Repellent – a higher percentage of repel is, as better! (Mandatory)
  • Sun cream and lip balm – you will trek in a high altitude, sun intensity is higher than normal. (Mandatory)
  • Swimsuit– you may need it in Aguas Calientes’ famous hot springs.
  • Insurance and passport – for your safety have a copy of your travel insurance, the passport is needed to get to Machu Picchu.

We hope you found this Packing List for the Inca Trail useful! If you would have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to assist! Check availability now and/or simply see why to choose TOUR IN PERU for your 2024 Inca Trail hike and start booking your unforgettable journey!

For more information on what to pack for the 2024 Inca Trail, please, watch this video made by EnergyRouter or simple contact our travel experts who will be glad to assist you on your next hikes in Cusco or all around Peru!

.