Don’t let a trip of a lifetime to Machu Picchu be ruined by forgetting the right gear. I learned this the hard way when I packed at the last minute and left my rain jacket behind. Luckily, a friend saved the day with a spare—but you don’t want to rely on chance.

Packing smart doesn’t mean overpacking. Whether you’re arriving by train, bus, or on foot, a few key essentials can make all the difference. Think comfortable hiking boots, insect repellent, and a lightweight daypack. To help you prepare, I gathered expert advice from pros at REI and Tambo del Inka, a luxury resort located in Peru’s Sacred Valley on the way to Machu Picchu. Here’s everything you’ll want on your packing list before setting off for one of the world’s most unforgettable adventures.

Machu Picchu Travel Essentials

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots

Amazon

Waterproof hiking shoes are a must. Last time, I opted for sneakers, and though it was comfortable at first, the water immediately soaked through my socks as soon as it started raining. “They offer good support and are waterproof, ideal for hikes in Machu Picchu,” José Miguel Peña, chief concierge of Tambo del Inka, tells Travel + Leisure.

This comfy pair from Columbia has a supportive waterproof leather and suede exterior to handle wet treks with ease. One five-star reviewer wrote that the boots got soaked several times during a week-long hiking trip, but “they just repelled all the mud and water off themselves. It’s magical.”

Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray 2-pack

Amazon

The one thing I did stock up on was mosquito repellent. Alison Washburn, general manager of REI’s Bellevue, Washington store, agrees: “I’m not a fan of bugs, so Sawyer Picaridin spray is always in my pack. She adds, “Machu Picchu is known for the presence of a small, flying insect called midges, so being prepared is key so you don’t get bitten.”

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

REI

Invest in hiking pants. Even though I had a blast at Machu Picchu, I could’ve avoided the pain of mosquito bites and the discomfort of being wet from the rain if I had worn hiking pants instead of leggings when I visited. “Anytime one climbs elevation, you need the freedom to move your legs,” adds Laurie McMillian, REI employee from the Lynwood, Washington store. “Utilizing convertible pants provides proper coverage along with freedom to move.”

Travel + Leisure

REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack

REI

Turn to this pack for an easy and lightweight way to keep your necessities all in one place. “​​For a daypack, the REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack is a great choice to carry essentials and extra layers, and it even comes with its own rain cover,” Washburn says. “Or for an even lighter option, my go-to is the REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack.”

The North Face Antora Rain Jacket

The North Face

Waterproof gear, especially during the rainy season from November to March, is a game-changer. When I went, I accidentally left my rain jacket behind and, of course, it started raining halfway through the hike. Luckily, a friend had an extra one folded in her backpack. In short, don’t be like me and snag this style from The North Face, which will keep you protected from both the rain and win during your trek.

Icebreaker 125 Cool Lite Sphere T-shirt

Nordstrom

The thing about being in the great outdoors is that it’s unpredictable. “The weather can change fast, so it’s important to have layers to adapt quickly and protect yourself from the elements,” Washburn points out. “Get lightweight wool base layers that provide a moisture-wicking thermal layer to keep your core temperature steady, like my favorite Icebreaker T-shirt.”

Travel + Leisure

REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie

REI

You could also go with a sun-protective hoodie. “This sun shirt provides UPF 50+ sun protection and is great for hiking or everyday wear,” Washburn reveals. “It’s super stretchy, wicks away moisture, and comes in fun colors.”

REI Co-op Multi Towel Mini

REI

Getting sweaty or being rained on at Machu Picchu is inevitable. Enter: the mini towel. It’s an affordable and effective way to stay dry every step of the way. It folds into a tiny sack and can absorb three times its weight in water, yet dries fast. Don’t worry—it’s also been treated with an antimicrobial, so it won’t smell in your bag even if it gets wet.

Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat

REI

Precipitation aside, remember to protect yourself from the sun, too. I hiked with just a baseball cap, and a wide-brimmed hat is hands down a much more useful option. “I suggest the Columbia Bora Bora Booney,” Peña shares. “The hat has UV protection and ventilation.”

Owala FreeSip Twist Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Amazon

Next, don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle to make sure you stay hydrated in higher elevations. Drinking plenty of water will mitigate common altitude sickness. “Staying hydrated is important, and a reusable bottle is eco-friendly,” Peña emphasizes. “At our hotels, guests can refill their bottles for free.”

Darn Tough Coolmax Midweight Hiking Socks

Amazon

Buy more than one pair of hiking socks. McMillian confirms you should change your socks twice to stay comfortable and dry. Doing so can also prevent blisters, as dry feet are less prone to them. It’s such a small item that’ll make a huge difference.

Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars

Amazon

It’s not all about what you’re wearing. Given the views and wildlife there is to see, consider packing a useful accessory like these compact binoculars. “Durable, palm-sized, and incredibly lightweight,” a five-star reviewer wrote. “While not perfect (there’s a slight chromatic aberration when looking at a bird against a bright background), when you take the price into consideration, these binocs are worth five stars. The optics are quite sharp, and they’re comfortable against your eyes.”

Smartwool Intraknit Strappy Bra

REI

Each layer of clothing is important, and there’s nothing worse than a sticky and sweaty bra during a hike. This strappy merino wool style isn’t just flattering, it’s fast-drying and provides plenty of support, making it ideal for Machu Picchu. Perhaps the downside is that it’s only available in limited sizes and colors online.

Peak Design Slide Lite Strap 2.0 Camera Strap

REI

If you’re planning on bringing a professional camera to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment, don’t go without a reliable strap. Not only is it convenient, but you’ll want to be hands-free in case of uneven or steep terrain. Plus, this pick is a versatile, three-in-one strap that can be worn around your neck, over your shoulder, or as a sling.

Nature Valley Sweet and Salty Nut Granola Bars

Amazon

When I’m traveling, I always keep a light snack with me. These Nature Valley bars are basically a healthier candy bar, and I love that the dark chocolate prevents them from being too sweet. On top of it all, the wrapper is bright orange, so you can’t miss it when you’re hangry searching through your bag.

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