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 is very important to keep the weight to a minimum. Avoid carrying your day pack during the trek, and for porters, they have a kilogram limit to carry including camping equipment and their additional belongings.
During the Inca Trail, you will have to face intense heat, strong sun and cold mountain nights, which can reach below zero while camping at night. For more information, we invite you to watch this video.
The best way to cope with all the different temperatures and extremes on the Inca Trail is to dress in several layers of clothing rather than wearing a jumper and hoping it will be enough for the entire hike.
In case you forget to bring something for the Inca Trail, there is no need to panic, you can get everything else in Cusco, or on the contrary leave at your hotel the things you will not use during the 4-day Inca Trail hike.
Also keep in mind that what you have to pack for the Short Inca Trail 2 days is totally different than what you will learn in this article. Please also check our post about how difficult the Short Inca Trail is and/or also learn a bit more about the same itinerary Short Inca Trail 2 days.
Accessing information about the Inca Trail in general can be very stressful, especially if you are looking for a proper checklist to prepare for your adventure. All of us here at Alpaca Expeditions want to provide you with all the help and assistance possible, and that is why we have created this Ultimate Packing List.
This packing list will be useful for any trek you choose and there will only be some minor variations which your Alpaca Expeditions reservations team can assist you with.
Underwear and base layers. For women, it is advisable to bring a couple of sports bras.
Protect your head when doing the Inca Trail
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 be walking at high altitude and the sun can burn you badly, so it is very important to save your head from the unwanted effects after being in the sun for a long time during the day.
Also, cold nights require some warmth on your head, so bring a hat, if you don’t have one, you can get one easily and cheaply in Cusco! Here is a short list to protect your head:
A few more essential accessories on your Inca Trail packing list, so you can enjoy your hike!