Whether you're heading out on the Inca Trail, tackling the high passes of the Ausangate trek, or spending days among the remote peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, packing the right gear makes all the difference between a great trek and a miserable one. Here's what experienced trekkers actually bring — and why it matters.
1. Hiking Boots Get boots that are already broken in before you arrive in Peru — blisters on day one can ruin an entire trek. Look for waterproof leather or a solid waterproof membrane, ankle support for uneven trails, and a grippy rubber sole for the loose rock and mud you'll find on most Andean paths.
2. Backpack For multi-day treks, a 30-50 liter pack works well if porters are carrying your main duffel; if you're carrying everything yourself, go bigger. Side pockets for your water bottle and snacks save you from digging through the main compartment at every stop, and a rain cover (built-in or separate) is non-negotiable — Andean weather changes fast.
3. Clothing for Changing Weather Layering is the only system that works here. Mornings can start near freezing and afternoons can hit strong sun within a couple of hours. Pack a lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket, quick-dry convertible pants, a warm mid-layer (fleece or down), and thermal base layers for camp nights. Skip the all-black outfit — brighter colors keep you visible to your group on narrow trails.
4. Trekking Poles Collapsible poles with shock absorption save your knees on the long descents, especially after crossing passes above 4,000 meters. They also help with balance when crossing streams or loose scree.
5. Documents and Personal Items Carry your passport (required to enter Machu Picchu and some trail checkpoints), travel insurance details, and a photocopy of your documents kept separately from the originals. A daypack is useful for keeping these items, your camera, and snacks with you while porters or mules handle the rest of your gear.
6. Sun and Weather Protection The sun at altitude is stronger than it feels. Bring a wide-brim hat or cap, high-SPF sunscreen, and lip balm with sun protection. Insect repellent matters most on lower-altitude routes like Lares or the jungle sections near Machu Picchu. For cold mornings, pack a warm beanie and gloves — temperatures can drop below zero at higher camps.
7. Water and Snacks A reusable water bottle or hydration bladder cuts down on plastic waste, and purification tablets or a filter let you refill from streams safely. Bring energy-dense snacks — nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, or energy bars — to keep you going between meals, especially on longer trekking days.
8. Camping Essentials If your trek includes camping, pack a headlamp with spare batteries (flashlights make it harder to set up camp with your hands free), a quick-dry towel, basic toiletries, and enough clean socks and underwear for each day. Damp socks are one of the fastest ways to end up with blisters.
9. Extras Worth Packing A camera or smartphone with a spare battery or power bank is worth the extra weight for capturing the scenery. Pack a basic first aid kit with any personal medications, blister treatment, and altitude sickness tablets if recommended by your doctor. A small amount of Peruvian soles in cash covers tips for porters and guides, plus any last-minute purchases along the trail.
10. Small Comforts That Make a Difference Sandals give your feet a break at camp after a long day in boots. If your route passes through Lares, pack a swimsuit for the hot springs. And don't underestimate a small pack of tissues — most trail bathrooms don't provide any.
Pack smart, layer well, and you'll spend less time worrying about gear and more time taking in some of the best trekking scenery in South America.
Machu PicchuT Travel offers the best all-inclusive Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tours in Peru.
