This post contains affiliate links. An affiliate link means I may earn advertising/referral fees if you make a purchase through my link, without any extra cost to you. It helps to keep this little blog afloat. Thanks for your support!
Do you need to know What to Pack for Machu Picchu on your Daypack Essentials? If you’re planning a trip to Machu Picchu, packing smart for your day on the trail can make or break the experience. So here is what you need to know about What to pack for Machu Picchu in your Daypack essential.
I just returned from leading a group of amazing women on a trek to this iconic site—and I’ve also explored it with my kids in tow. So when I say I know what works, I mean it. From solo travelers to families, I’ve done both—and learned a lot along the way.
During both trips, my go-to daypack was a lightweight, durable REI backpack—just the right size to carry essentials without weighing me down. Since large backpacks aren’t allowed inside Machu Picchu, a compact, comfortable daypack is key. Let me walk you through what to bring to make your day at Machu Picchu smooth, memorable, and stress-free.
List of What to pack for Machu Picchu: Daypack Essentials
Here’s exactly what I packed for our day at Machu Picchu:
1. Water (at least 1 liter)
Staying hydrated at Machu Picchu is no joke—those steep steps will wear you out fast, especially in the sun. We each brought a reusable water bottle filled up in the morning and topped it off at the entrance (the only refill spot!). Once you’re inside, there’s nowhere else to fill up, so come prepared—it heats up quicker than you’d think. This is my favorite water bottle that I actually use there:
FreeSip Vacuum Water Bottle – 24 fl. oz.
2. Passport + Entry Tickets
This tip is especially useful for travel days and airports. Personally, I prefer to leave my passport locked in the hotel safe, but sometimes that’s just not possible—like on my last trip. We had to carry our passports in our daypacks because at Machu Picchu, you’re required to show it multiple times to match your bus ticket and entrance ticket. You won’t be allowed in without it. I had to keep it handy, so I used this smart little pouch on my camera bag to keep it secure and accessible. Here’s what I used:
RFIDsafe V150 RFID-Blocking Compact Organizer
3. Snacks
While food isn’t allowed inside the ruins, we brought protein bars, trail mix, and fruit snacks for energy. We ate them before and after entering the site. Just make sure to pick up your garbage.
4. Light Rain Jacket or Poncho
Weather in the Andes can change in an instant, so it’s best to be prepared. I packed a lightweight, packable rain jacket for each of us, and we were so glad to have them when a surprise drizzle hit. On my last visit, it rained in the morning—we were lucky our Machu Picchu entry was in the afternoon, but we still needed rain protection while walking around town. I wished I’d also brought a poncho to cover my backpack, so I recommend picking one up before you go—or grabbing one in Aguas Calientes if you’re short on time.
Alta Vista Rain Jacket – Women’s
Teris GTX Rain Jacket – Women’s
5. Sunscreen + Hat
Even on cloudy days, the sun at high altitude is intense—there’s a reason the Incas built a sun temple here! I applied sunscreen before entering and wore a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection. Personally, I love using solid sunscreen bars—they’re TSA-friendly, easy to reapply, and always in my carry-on.
Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm
SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Daily SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen – 4 fl. oz.
6. Bug Spray Wipes
Yes, there are mosquitoes—especially in the warmer months! I packed DEET-free insect repellent wipes to keep bites at bay. Most of the time bugs aren’t a big issue, but when they show up, you’ll be glad you came prepared.
Mosquito Repellent wipes
7. Phone + Portable Charger
Between snapping photos, navigating, and staying connected, your phone works overtime at Machu Picchu. I brought a lightweight portable charger so we were never stuck with a dead battery when we needed it most.
8. Small First Aid Kit
Band-Aids, ibuprofen, and moleskin for potential blisters were all I needed. Thankfully, we didn’t use most of it.
9. Tissues or Toilet Paper + Hand Sanitizer
The public restrooms near the entrance didn’t have toilet paper or soap. These were lifesavers! I love this one that I brought specially the smell.
10. Camera (Optional)
My phone took beautiful shots, but if you’re into photography, a lightweight camera is worth the weight.
Final Tips about What to Pack for Machu Picchu: Daypack Essentials
- Pack light: You’ll be walking and climbing a lot.
- Use a backpack with chest and waist straps if possible.
- Start early: The crowds and heat increase as the day goes on.
Machu Picchu is unforgettable, and having the right gear makes it even more enjoyable. My REI pack came through for me, and I hope this list helps you feel ready too!
Happy hiking!
