The allowed luggage on the Machu Picchu train is limited because passenger cars do not have space for large suitcases. On PeruRail, one piece of carry-on luggage is allowed up to 5 kg / 11 lbs, with maximum dimensions of 62 inches / 157 linear cm, calculated by adding length, width, and height. On Inca Rail, the usual limit is 8 kg / 17 lbs, with maximum dimensions of 50 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm. Large, hard-shell, or wheeled suitcases should not be taken onto traditional passenger cars and, in general, should be left in storage in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, or at the offices authorized by the railway company.
This rule often surprises travelers who arrive with a full suitcase from Lima, Cusco, or the Sacred Valley. The journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo is made on tourist trains with narrow aisles, assigned seats, and limited luggage space. For that reason, the most practical option is to bring only a daypack and leave your main luggage in storage before boarding.
Luggage restrictions on PeruRail
PeruRail applies a strict carry-on luggage policy per passenger. The rule is designed to keep aisles clear, avoid boarding delays, and ensure that each traveler can store their belongings without taking up space from other passengers.
If you travel on tourist services to Machu Picchu, such as Expedition, Vistadome, or other passenger trains, keep in mind that the ticket does not work like an airline ticket with checked baggage included. The train only allows small, manageable luggage that is easy to place inside the car.
Maximum allowed weight and official dimensions on PeruRail
PeruRail’s official carry-on luggage limit is 5 kg / 11 lbs per passenger. The maximum allowed dimensions are up to 62 inches / 157 linear cm, calculated by adding the length, width, and height of the bag.
In practice, this limit corresponds to a small backpack or daypack. Luggage must be placed in the designated spaces inside the car, without blocking aisles, doors, exits, or staff circulation areas. If a suitcase cannot be stored safely, staff may ask that it not be boarded.
A common mistake is thinking that an airline carry-on suitcase will always be accepted. Although some meet similar size requirements, hard-shell or wheeled suitcases can be inconvenient on the train, especially when the car is full. To avoid problems, it is better to travel with a flexible backpack.
Items prohibited on board the PeruRail car
Items that take up too much space or pose a safety risk to passengers are not allowed inside the train car. Items that commonly raise concerns include large-capacity camping backpacks, oversized hard-shell suitcases, and any bag that cannot be stored in the designated spaces.
Dangerous items are also prohibited, such as weapons, flammable substances, fuels, explosives, large tools, or sharp objects that could cause accidents during the trip. If you are carrying special equipment, the safest option is to check directly with the railway company before your departure date.
- Large-capacity camping backpacks that exceed the allowed limit.
- Large hard-shell or wheeled suitcases that cannot be stored inside the car.
- Weapons of any kind or replicas that may trigger a security alert.
- Flammable substances, fuels, hazardous aerosols, or explosive materials.
- Unprotected sharp objects or tools that could cause harm.
Luggage storage service at PeruRail stations
PeruRail offers a free luggage storage service, known as Luggage Store, for passengers with a valid ticket. This service is usually available at the Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Pueblo stations, and it is useful if you arrive with a large suitcase that cannot travel with you inside the train car.
Use of the service is subject to presentation of the train ticket and space availability at the station. Drop-off and pickup times depend on the daily train operation, so it is best to verify this information before traveling or when arriving at the station. On high-demand days, arriving early helps avoid last-minute boarding stress.
If your itinerary includes spending the night in Machu Picchu Pueblo, check whether you really need to bring more than a small backpack. Many travelers leave their main suitcase in Cusco or Ollantaytambo and travel only with clothes for one night, documents, personal items, and what they need to visit the citadel.
Weight and dimensions allowed per passenger on Inca Rail
Inca Rail allows passengers to carry one piece of hand luggage up to 8 kg / 17 lbs per passenger. The maximum dimensions indicated by the company are 50 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm. This size is intended for a compact backpack, a flexible bag, or a small piece of luggage that does not cause inconvenience inside the car.
Luggage must fit under the seat or in the overhead racks, depending on the type of train and the car layout. If the item exceeds the dimensions or cannot be placed safely, staff may restrict its entry and refer it to a storage or cargo service, if available.
The main difference compared with PeruRail is that Inca Rail lists its dimensions in centimeters per side, while PeruRail uses linear measurements. In both cases, the practical recommendation is the same: avoid large suitcases and travel with a small soft backpack.
Free storage service in Ollantaytambo with Inca Rail
Inca Rail has luggage storage offices at the Ollantaytambo station. This service allows passengers to leave large suitcases free of charge while traveling to Machu Picchu, as long as they have a valid ticket and follow the company’s operating conditions.
The process is usually simple: the passenger presents their ticket, leaves the luggage at the authorized point, and receives instructions for pickup. Even so, it is best to arrive with enough extra time, especially if your train departs early or if you are traveling during high season, when the station is busier.
Do not leave documents, money, cameras, medication, or valuables inside luggage kept in storage. These items should stay with you in your carry-on backpack, both for safety and convenience during the train ride and your visit to Machu Picchu.
What backpack should you use for the train to Machu Picchu?
The best option for the train to Machu Picchu is a soft, lightweight daypack that is easy to store. It should fit without effort under the seat or in the overhead spaces of the train car, and it should also be comfortable for walking through Machu Picchu Pueblo, boarding the bus, and exploring the archaeological site.
Avoid hard-shell luggage, bags that are too wide, or trekking backpacks with external frames. Although they may seem useful for long trips, they are not practical for the train or for the entrance controls at Machu Picchu. A compact backpack lets you move more freely and reduces the risk of being asked to leave it in storage.
Recommended size for daypacks
For this trip, the most recommended option is to use a daypack between 20 and 30 liters. This size usually meets PeruRail and Inca Rail rules without issue, as long as it is not overpacked and bulky items are not hanging from the outside.
A 20-liter backpack works well if you will visit Machu Picchu on a one-day trip from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. A 30-liter backpack may be more convenient if you will spend one night in Machu Picchu Pueblo and need to carry a change of clothes, small toiletries, and a light jacket.
This range is also appropriate for the internal regulations of the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park, where the entry of large bags is controlled. A backpack that is too bulky can be uncomfortable on the circuits, especially on narrow stairways, terraces, and areas where visitor flow must remain clear.
Essential items to pack in your carry-on backpack
Your allowed backpack should contain what you need for the train ride, your arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo, and entry to the citadel. The main idea is to keep with you everything that would not be easy to replace if your large suitcase is left in storage.
Pack in an organized way and avoid filling your backpack with unnecessary clothing. Remember that you will walk, go up and down stairs, pass through controls, and possibly wait in line for the bus to the Machu Picchu entrance.
- Original ID document: passport, national ID, or the document used to buy the entrance ticket.
- Printed train tickets or tickets available on your phone, according to the company’s requirements.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket printed or in digital format, according to current instructions.
- Cash in Peruvian soles for small payments, restrooms, snacks, or local services.
- Camera or phone with enough battery.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent in small containers.
- Light rain poncho, especially between November and March.
- Personal and basic medications, especially if you follow a regular treatment.
- Small bottle of water and simple snacks for personal consumption.
If you travel with a local agency such as Incredible Peru Tours, you can ask them to review the train, bus, entrance time, and luggage logistics with you before leaving Cusco. This helps avoid last-minute changes at the station.
What happens if your luggage exceeds the allowed limit?
If your luggage exceeds the allowed limit, the railway company may deny its entry into the passenger car. In that case, you will have to leave it in storage, send it through a cargo service if available, or reorganize your luggage before boarding.
The most common problem happens when travelers arrive directly in Ollantaytambo with a large suitcase, assuming they will be able to take it onto the train. This can cause delays, additional payments, or even the risk of missing the departure if there is not enough time to solve the issue.
Cargo luggage service and additional excess fees
When luggage exceeds carry-on limits, the passenger must arrange a cargo transportation service with PeruRail or Inca Rail, depending on the company they are traveling with. This service is not part of the regular passenger ticket and may require payment of an additional ticket or fee to transport the item in specific cars.
Availability is not guaranteed. It depends on operating space, the type of train, the station, and the conditions of the day. For that reason, if you have no choice but to travel with heavy luggage, arrive very early and check directly at the railway company’s office.
Do not assume staff will make an exception. On routes to Machu Picchu, luggage checks can be strict because space inside the train is limited and the operation follows tight schedules.
Where to leave large suitcases in Cusco and Ollantaytambo
The most practical alternative is to leave large suitcases at your hotel in Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Most accommodations are used to storing guests’ main luggage for one or several days while they visit Machu Picchu, often at no extra cost for guests.
Before leaving, confirm with the front desk whether the service is available, whether they provide a receipt, and what time you can pick up your suitcase. If you have valuables, take them with you or ask whether the accommodation has a safe.
In Ollantaytambo, there are also accommodations, agencies, and private storage points that can hold luggage. This option is useful if you spend the night in the Sacred Valley before taking the train. Even so, verify the conditions, hours, and security before leaving your belongings.
Frequently asked questions about transporting luggage on the train
These answers cover common questions that usually come up before boarding the train to Machu Picchu. Policies may vary depending on the company, type of service, and daily operation, so it is always best to review the ticket conditions before the trip.
Can you bring liquids or food into the train car?
Yes, you can bring snacks and personal drinks in small bottles for your own consumption during the trip. It is best to choose simple foods without strong odors that are easy to store in your backpack.
It is not recommended to board with large meals, hot food, or containers that could spill and bother other passengers. Keep your trash with you until you find an appropriate place to dispose of it.
Are trekking poles allowed on the train?
Yes, trekking poles can be carried on the train if they are fully collapsed and secured inside or next to your backpack. They should not stick out or block passage inside the car.
To enter Machu Picchu, trekking poles must have protective rubber tips. This measure helps protect the surfaces along the route and reduces the risk of accidents with other visitors.
How does transportation work for baby strollers and wheelchairs?
Baby strollers and wheelchairs are priority-need items. They should be reported to station staff before boarding so they can be placed safely in special areas of the train.
This type of assistance usually has no extra cost, but it requires prior coordination and early arrival. If you are traveling with a person with reduced mobility, confirm the conditions directly with the railway company before the departure day.
