Miya Pearson
If you're planning a trek to Machu Picchu, you'll need to consider what type of sleeping bag to bring. The Inca Trail can get pretty cold at night, with sub-zero temperatures common during the dry popular trekking season of May to September. A four-season bag with a rating of -10 C (14 F) is recommended for these months, while a three-season bag (-4 C / 25 F) should suffice for the shoulder months of March-April and October-November. If you're trekking the Salkantay Trail, you won't need a sleeping bag as you'll be staying in accommodation. However, if you're camping on the Inca Trail, a quality winter sleeping bag is essential. You can rent sleeping bags in Cusco for USD 20-50, or bring your own. Silk bag liners are popular as they're lightweight, breathable, and warm, but fleece liners are also a good option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | 3 or 4 |
| Temperature Rating | -10 C (14 F) for 4 seasons, -4 C (25 F) for 3 seasons |
| Weight | 2-5 kg |
| Portability | Compact and lightweight |
| Length | Varies, typically fits up to 6' |
| Liner | Silk or fleece |
| Rental | Available in Cusco and from tour companies, costs USD 20-50 |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
When choosing a sleeping bag for Machu Picchu, it's important to consider the temperature ratings. While you're unlikely to encounter freezing temperatures on the Inca Trail, you can expect nighttime temperatures to drop below 10°C (50°F) all year round. During the dry popular trekking season from May to September, sub-zero temperatures are common at night. So, what do sleeping bag temperature ratings mean?
It's important to note that these ratings are estimates and may not perfectly match your experience in the outdoors. Factors such as clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and food can all impact your comfort level. Additionally, different manufacturers may present the numbers in different ways, and some ratings may be less trustworthy than others. When choosing a sleeping bag, it's generally recommended to aim for a comfort temperature slightly lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter.
For the Inca Trail, a four-season bag with a rating of -10°C (14°F) is recommended for year-round use. During the dry shoulder months of March-April and October-November, a three-season bag (-4°C/25°F) should suffice. Silk bag liners are also popular for trekking Machu Picchu as they are lightweight, breathable, and warm.
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Sleeping bag liners
When packing for Machu Picchu, it is important to consider the type of sleeping bag to bring, as well as the option of using a sleeping bag liner. The choice depends on the trail you will be taking and whether you will be camping or staying in accommodation.
If you will be taking the Inca Trail, a quality winter sleeping bag is recommended. Even though you are unlikely to encounter freezing temperatures, the nighttime temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F) all year round. A four-season bag will keep you warm and cosy. On the other hand, if you will be taking the Salkantay trail, you will be staying in accommodation and a sleeping bag is not necessary.
If you are renting a sleeping bag, a liner is a good idea for hygiene purposes and to add an extra layer of warmth. Silk sleeping bag liners are popular as they are lightweight, breathable, warm, and hypoallergenic. They are also thermo-regulating, so they can be useful in various climates. Silk liners are also useful if you plan to stay in hostels or homestays. Fleece liners are another option, offering warmth and comfort. Mummy-shaped silk liners are compact and lightweight, packing down to the size of an apple.
If you are purchasing a liner, the price of silk liners can vary. Liners can be found on eBay for as little as £10, while camping shops may sell them for £30 or more. Synthetic liners are also available, though some people find them less comfortable.
In addition to a sleeping bag or liner, it is recommended to bring a pillow or pillowcase, earplugs, and a spare outfit.
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Renting vs buying a sleeping bag
If you're planning a trip to Machu Picchu, you'll need to decide whether to rent or buy a sleeping bag for your trek. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
Renting a Sleeping Bag
Renting a sleeping bag can be a convenient option, especially if you're travelling light or don't want to invest in a sleeping bag for a one-off trip. Here are some advantages of renting:
- Convenience and Space-Saving: Renting a sleeping bag can save you the hassle of carrying your own, especially if you're travelling with limited luggage space. This is a significant consideration for Machu Picchu, as the trek involves high altitudes and challenging terrain.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Renting is generally more cost-effective if you don't plan on using the sleeping bag frequently. The cost of renting a sleeping bag for the Inca Trail trek ranges from USD 20 to 50 per person for the entire trek.
- Availability: Sleeping bags are available for rent in Cusco, with numerous rental options. Trekking companies and tour operators often provide rental services, and it's common for Inca Trail operators to rent out bags.
- Hygiene: Renting a sleeping bag can be more hygienic than using your own, especially if you invest in a silk liner. Liners provide extra warmth and are easy to clean.
Buying a Sleeping Bag
Purchasing a sleeping bag is a good option if you plan to use it for multiple trips or prefer the comfort and peace of mind of having your own gear. Here are some advantages of buying:
- Personal Comfort: Buying your own sleeping bag ensures a perfect fit for your body type and preferences. This is especially important if you're taller, as some rental bags may not accommodate your height.
- Sanitation: By owning your sleeping bag, you eliminate concerns about the cleanliness of rental bags. This is a valid consideration, as hygiene standards may vary among rental companies.
- Durability and Reliability: Investing in a quality sleeping bag can provide long-lasting durability and reliability for future trips. A well-made bag can serve you for many years, especially if you opt for a four-season bag suitable for various conditions.
- Customisation: When you buy your own sleeping bag, you can choose specific features that suit your needs, such as compactness, weight, and temperature ratings. This customisation ensures you have the perfect bag for your trek.
In conclusion, the decision to rent or buy a sleeping bag for Machu Picchu depends on your personal preferences, budget, and future travel plans. Renting is ideal for one-off trips and space-saving, while buying offers more customisation, comfort, and sanitation benefits for frequent travellers.
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Sleeping bag weight
The weight of your sleeping bag for Machu Picchu is an important consideration. If you are trekking the Inca Trail, you will be camping and will need a sleeping bag. If you follow the Salkantay trail, you won't need a sleeping bag as you will stay in accommodation.
Sleeping bags can be rented in Cusco for the duration of the Inca Trail trek, which is a good option to avoid having to carry a sleeping bag. If you are renting, the weight will not be a concern as you will only be carrying the bag for the duration of your trek.
If you are buying a sleeping bag, it is recommended to get a lightweight bag, as it will be carried by you or your porter. Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are a good option as they are designed to fit the contours of your body and provide great insulation. A lightweight, warm down sleeping bag will serve you well on most high-altitude treks, but a good synthetic bag will also suffice for a one-off trek. Silk bag liners are popular with trekkers as they are lightweight, breathable, and warm.
When buying a sleeping bag, there is a trade-off between warmth and weight. A good balance is to get a bag that weighs no more than 2.5 kg and has a temperature rating of -10 C (14 F) for year-round use. During the dry shoulder months of March, April, October, and November, a three-season bag with a rating of -4 C (25 F) will be sufficient.
It is recommended to take no more than 15 kg of gear on the Inca Trail trek, including your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Your main bag will likely be carried by a porter, so check with your tour operator for their weight allowance. An ethical company will have a strict weight allowance to ensure their porters are not overloaded.
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Sleeping bag size
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu involves camping, so a sleeping bag is essential. The weight of your sleeping bag will likely be included in the overall weight limit for your luggage, which is typically 7kg. Some sources advise that you should take no more than 15kg of gear on the trek, which includes your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Duffel bags are commonly used for the Inca Trail, and you can hire porters to carry your belongings.
The size of your sleeping bag will depend on your height. One source recommends a sleeping bag that is 6' long for someone who is 5'2" tall. However, this same bag would not be suitable for someone who is 5'9" tall.
If you are hiring a sleeping bag, you will need to know its weight to factor it into your overall luggage weight. Sleeping bags can be rented in Cusco for USD 20 to 50 for the duration of the Inca Trail trek. The cost of hiring a bag from your tour company will likely be included in your package fee.
If you are buying a sleeping bag, a lightweight, warm down sleeping bag is a good option for high-altitude treks like the Inca Trail. A four-season bag with a rating of --10 C (14 F) is recommended for year-round use. During the dry shoulder months of March, April, October, and November, a three-season bag with a rating of -4 C (25 F) should suffice. A good synthetic sleeping bag will suffice if you are only doing the Inca Trail once and are unlikely to go on high-altitude or winter treks in the future.
To save money and luggage space, some people choose to rent sleeping bags and bring their own silk or fleece sleeping bag liners for added warmth and hygiene.
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Frequently asked questions
A lightweight, warm down sleeping bag is ideal for the Inca Trail. If you don't plan on doing more high-altitude treks, a good synthetic bag will also suffice. A four-season bag is recommended for all year, with a rating of -10 C (14 F). During the dry shoulder months of March, April, October and November, a three-season bag (-4 C / 25 F) should be sufficient.
It is possible to rent sleeping bags in Cusco or from tour companies. This will cost between USD 20 and 50 for the duration of the trek. If you bring your own, your sleeping bag will count towards your weight allowance, so check with your tour operator what this is before you travel.
A silk sleeping bag liner will add warmth and is good for hygiene. An inflatable pillow or some spare clothing can also make your rest more comfortable. Earplugs are also recommended as it can get a little loud at the camps.
