Explore Trekking
Having the right equipment on a trek is obviously important, though when you see how little porters get by with, you’ll realize high-tech gear isn’t essential. Bring what you need to be comfortable, but keep weight to a minimum. Our checklist is intended mainly for independent trekkers staying in lodges. If you’re planning to camp, you’ll need more, and if you’re trekking with an agency you won’t need so much.
A sleeping bag is strongly recommended for all but the warmest seasons. Most lodges will supply quilts or blankets on demand, but you don’t know who used the bedding last or what surprises might lurk therein – and if you’re trekking a major route in peak season lodges can sometimes run out. A three-season bag is adequate for mid-elevation treks; above 4000m, or in winter, you’ll need a four-season bag. A sleeping bag liner adds warmth, and makes cleaning much easier. Camera equipment involves a trade-off between weight and performance – and cold weather and stunning views can really eat up batteries. On the most popular trails, and often off them too, you can usually find somewhere with solar or other electricity to recharge camera batteries, often for a fee. Otherwise you’ll need disposables or a portable solar charger (you can buy ones specifically designed to fit backpacks, for charging on the move). If you’re taking an SLR body, be sure to bring a polarizing filter to cope with the Himalayan skies and snowfields.
By renting bulky or specialized items in Nepal, you’ll avoid having to lug them around during the rest of your travels. Kathmandu and Pokhara both have dozens of rental places; if you’re trekking in the Everest region, you can rent high-altitude gear in Namche. Even in Kathmandu, you might have trouble finding good gear of exactly the right size during the busy autumn trekking season. You’ll be expected to leave a deposit. Inspect sleeping bags and parkas carefully for fleas and make sure zippers are in working order. You can also buy equipment quite cheaply.
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Clothing and footwear
Clothing and footwear
Clothes should be lightweight, versatile and breathable (cotton gets very sweaty), especially on long treks where conditions vary from subtropical to arctic. Many first-time trekkers underestimate the potential for heat especially, but be prepared for sun, rain, snow and very chilly mornings; dress in layers for maximum flexibility. Note too that high-altitude trekking days are short, so you may spend many hours lounging around in the cold. Many Nepalis have conservative attitudes about dress, and for minimum impact, avoid figure-hugging or otherwise revealing clothes. Women should consider wearing dresses or (longish) skirts rather than trousers, and avoid vest tops that show the shoulders; men might note that shorts traditionally indicate low status, though this isn’t an issue nowadays along the popular trekking routes. Both sexes should wear at least a swimsuit when bathing, preferably a T-shirt too. For footwear, hiking boots are pretty essential, providing better traction, ankle support and protection than anything else; many hiking trainers have soles that just don’t grip on Nepalese stone. A pair of trainers, sports sandals or flip-flops are useful for rest days and airing your feet; Croc-style plastic sandals are particularly lightweight and can be bought cheaply in Kathmandu. Bring plenty of socks, because you’ll be changing them often.
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What to bring
What to bring
All the items listed below can be bought in Kathmandu and Pokhara, though branded, top-quality clothing and gear is rarely much less expensive than at home. Kit marked (*) can be rented. If you’re camping, of course, you’ll need all the camping gear as well. If you’re with an agency, you won’t need some of it – for instance the medical kit, which guides should carry.
Essentials
Sunglasses – a good UV-protective pair, ideally with side shields if you expect to be in snow
Water bottle, plus iodine tablets or solution and/or a water-purification system
Sleeping bag* – though you can get by with borrowed blankets on lower trails
Toiletries – including biodegradable soap/shampoo and toilet paper
Headtorch/flashlight – spare batteries are available on main trails
Backpack* – though if you’re using a porter, any pack will do
Sunscreen, lip balm – at altitude you’ll need a high factor
Medical kit
Map and guidebookFootwear and specialist clothing
Crampons and ice axes* – not needed on any standard treks, though should be considered, depending on season, for crossings of the Thorung La (Annapurna Circuit), Cho La (Everest) and other high, icy passes. Lightweight mini-crampons may be a good compromise if ice or snow is possible but unlikely
Waterproofs – breathable waterproofs are best, and provide crucial windproofing; you’re unlikely to need waterproof trousers outside the wet season
Wool sweaters or fleeces – fleece dries quickly and stays warm when wet; close-fitting layers are much warmer than loose ones
Down jacket* – fantastic on high or late-autumn/winter treks; down overtrousers and booties are rarely needed
Thermals – warm, breathable (not cotton) long johns and vests are essential for high-altitude or winter treks
Gaiters* – if snow is likely on passes; can help with leeches in the monsoon
Sun hat and warm hat – helpful at both low and high elevations
Bandana – to use as a handkerchief, sweatband or scarf
Hiking boots* – it’s hard to find good ones for rent
Mittens/glovesOther useful items
Telescoping hiking poles* – may be useful for keeping your balance and protecting the knees on descents
Stuff sacks – handy for separating things in your pack and for creating a pillow when filled with clothes
Plastic bags – a big one to cover your pack in the rain, small sealable ones for many uses
A book, journal or pack of cards – trekking days can be short, leaving long afternoons
Snack food – biscuits and chocolate can be bought along the way on the major treks
Sleeping mat* – for independent trekkers likely to sleep in basic accommodation
Umbrella – usually better than a coat in hot, often windless monsoon conditions
Mobile phone – for emergencies; coverage is patchy in the mountains
Toilet paper – refer to our “Conservation Tips”
Day pack – if a porter is carrying your main pack
Whistle – for emergencies
Candles
Sewing kit
