What To Pack For A Hiking Trip To Peru
- Emmy
- Jul 10
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 9
Last year, I went on Salkantay's 5-Day Trek, The Savage Mountain Trail to Machu Picchu—hiking 50 miles through the Andes, from Cusco to Machu Picchu. (Read more about the once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list adventure here.)
In addition to all the training to be ready for the journey (thank you, SoulCycle), smart packing was just as essential. With a weight limit to consider, and wanting to be prepared for all possible conditions and microclimates we’d encounter, it was important to pack super efficiently. The right gear made a huge difference in keeping me comfortable, safe, and ready for whatever the trail threw my way.
For a hiking trip to Machu Picchu, it's recommended to pack clothing that can be layered, including moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece or soft-shell jacket, and a waterproof jacket. Essentials also include sturdy hiking boots, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a daypack. Don't forget a reusable water bottle (in addition to your hydration backpack), snacks you like, and a camera to capture the stunning views. You'll be surprised how long your iPhone battery lasts when you go in airplane mode and have no service!
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WHAT TO PACK FOR A HIKING TRIP TO MACHU PICCHU
You can click the photos below to learn more about each product. I also provide a comprehensive list of what I packed at the bottom of this post.
More Details On What I Packed & Why
As mentioned, you can click the photos above to learn more about each product. I've also linked everything below and provided more details about what I packed for Peru and why I packed it.
The most important item you will pack. You want to make sure you boots are broken in and comfortable. While I was training for the trek, I ended up buying my hiking boots in a half size bigger to make sure they were roomy enough (I'm normally an 8 and got an 8.5). While we were in Peru and going down hill for an extended period of time, I was grateful for the extra room. (My big toes were bruised for months post hike! Thank goodness for pedicures.)
Wool socks are breathable, temp controlled, and keep odors to a minimum. I was one of the only hikers who didn't end the trek with crazy blisters and I attribute that to the high quality socks I wore. Totally worth the extra $$.
The neck gaiter serves many purposes - to block out sun, wind, dirt, and keep you warm. I found it was easier to keep my face covered than a bandana, which kept slipping off.
Amazon: I love my Amazon leggings even more than my expensive Athleta leggings. They hold you in without being overly compressive, so you are comfortable all day.
Athleta: Leggings with stash pockets on the side are very convenient. It's nice to have the extra pocket for your phone, a snack, or anything else you might need handy so your hands can be free.
I opted for a button down fleece instead of a zip up, as I wanted something that wouldn't be as bulky for layering. This Billabong fleece was perfect. I could wear it unbuttoned during the day for another layer, or button it up at night when I got cold. It was perfect over tanks and tees, and under my raincoat.
This Patagonia jacket is waterproof and breathable with zippered arm vents. Luckily, we didn't encounter any rain, but I was still glad I had this on this cooler days to block the wind and add an extra light layer. The pockets came in handy and I enjoyed having it at camp at night.
This came in handy when day turned to night and we were still on the trail trying to make it to camp. It was also very helpful for middle of the night bathroom runs at camp. This one is lightweight, easy to use, and rechargeable.
Each day, I left camp with a full Camel Bak in my bakcpack and an extra water bottle to make sure I had enough until our next opportunity to refill. I loved this Yeti because the cap is dual purpose - it twists off completely, or you can drink from a spout. It was also easy to clip onto the outside of my backpack.
This backpack was the perfect size for daytime essentials. I only took what I needed for each day (snacks, sunscreen, headlamp, electrolytes, medications, toilet paper, phone, etc.). The rest of my supplies were carried by a mule, and were available when we arrived at the next camp each day.
This layering piece was clutch. It kept me warm without being bulky and was easy to layer. Plus, the color is really pretty.
The days were long and the showers were not easy to come by, which meant my hair was dirty pretty quickly. Hat to the rescue to cover it up and protect me from the sun!
It was chilly at night, and these were the perfect weight for keeping me warm without being hot. Also lightweight and easy to pack.
Renting a sleeping bag was an option, but I knew I would be most comfortable in a luxurious, clean bag that was just for me. I'm also cold natured and wanted to ensure I would be plenty warm on the cooler nights.
$10 Rubber Slides
These went to Peru and stayed in Peru. They were great for wearing to breakfast and dinner before I wanted to put my hiking boots on, and for getting to the bathroom in the middle of the night. They aren't my style, so I left them behind in favor of more packing room for souvenirs.
Having a few of these in my backpack came in handy - for clipping my water bottle on my bag, hanging things up in my tent, etc. Recommend buying at least 2.
I didn't end up needing these, but I would pack them just in case you get a blister. They are supposed to be much better than regular bandaids so you can keep moving comfortably while you hike with a blister.
I love a bandana and always travel with some, hiking or not. Adds a cute touch to your hiking outfit, collects sweat, and provides sun protection.
Several of us bought this charger and tested it before the trek. You can fully charge your phone multiple times before it dies. It's a little heavy, but valuable to have if you aren't going to be able to charge your devices along the way.
These mini toilet paper rolls come in a plastic container, so they are perfect to throw in your bag and use throughout the day. It's biodegradable. 2 rolls was plenty for our 5-day trek.
If you're planning a hiking trip and have any questions, feel free to email me. Especially happy to chat if you are doing the Salkantay Trek and want to know more about what to expect from the journey.
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