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Equipment Required During Trek

Table of Content

Trekking on a shoestring budget as part of a round-the-world tour is difficult. Making sure you have the appropriate gear is also difficult, so here's our Nepal trek gear list based on extensive study (and subsequent testing).

While trekking in Nepal, it is critical to have appropriate gear and equipment. Proper attire and carrying necessary materials are critical for a safe and enjoyable hike.

Packing too much or too little might ruin your trip. So you must understand how much is too much or too little. The number of clothing items you should bring will depend on how long or when you will be hiking.

For example, because the Everest Base Camp journey is substantially longer, you will require more clothing than the Poon Hill climb.

The majority of trekking in Nepal begins at lower elevations in moderate weather and progresses to higher altitudes in frigid temperatures. As a result, it is preferable to wear layers so that you may change your attire as the weather changes.

Typically, you would begin your day trekking with a light sweater or tracksuit. On hot days, you might feel more at ease with T-shirts and shorts. As the temperature drops, you may need to put on a tracksuit, down jacket, thermal leggings, caps, and gloves.

The majority of trekkers will stay in lodges or teahouses with basic accommodations and two single beds with mattresses. All lodges offer blankets to borrow, so a decent quality three-season will usually suffice. There is usually a base camp with tents for trekking peaks, and you will need a warmer sleeping bag or a liner to boost the warmth of your bag, as well as a sleeping mattress.

  • Bags - A porter will carry a rucksack or duffel bag, and you will carry a day pack. Your day pack should be comfortable and large enough to carry everything you need for the day; 40 liters is usually plenty. If you're going to a hiking peak and bringing bulkier stuff like down coats, 50 liters is a better option.
  • Shell - Waterproof outer layer on top and bottom. Choose a high-quality garment with a Goretex lining.
  • Down jacket - A puffy jacket filled with down or synthetic filling is useful for staying warm at high altitudes, particularly on hiking peaks. A lightweight down jacket may be used for walking, but an adventure-type jacket that is long enough to protect the backside is best for climbing expeditions. Until you reach the upper 8000m peaks, down bottoms are mostly useless.
  • Fleece - Bring a high-quality fleece jacket for general use and trekking peaks. When the weather is nice, this top will suffice, but in inclement weather, you will most likely wear this top with the shell on top. There are many different fleeces on the market, some of which are rather technical, but as long as they keep the wind and cold out, they will be enough for a hiking trip.
  • Layers - Please bring a variety of shirts, pants, shorts, T-shirts, fleece tops, caps, and gloves. Because cotton takes longer to dry, many individuals prefer synthetic hiking apparel that dries quickly while remaining warm. Two or three layers will enough for a two-week journey.
  • Base layer - This is a warm top and bottom layer near the skin and is only truly needed on freezing mornings, especially for those undertaking a hiking peak or waking up very early to view a sunrise, such as from Kala Patthar. Base layers can be composed of merino wool or synthetic material, and you will most likely only require one set.
  • Underwear - You will want to change your underwear frequently, so bring enough and a separate bag for old underwear and socks, as there will be no opportunity to wash these things. Cotton does not dry quickly, thus we would suggest an alternative material.
  • Socks- You should replace your socks every few days, and on a journey, you should wear lightweight hiking socks because it becomes quite hot. Lightweight socks can be used in the early stages of a walk, with woollen socks only being worn at greater altitudes. Trekking peaks and any climbs requiring climbing boots (plastic or hybrid) will require highly padded woollen (or comparable) socks, but just one or two pairs for those few days.
  • Boots - Comfortable boots with a good sole and ankle support are obviously important for a mountain trek, but the early days can often be very hot, so bring a lightweight pair of walking shoes or boots for the majority of the trek, changing into warmer boots at higher altitude and especially on the more broken ground (for example, glacial moraine), and many of these boots take crampons for use on trekking peaks. It's also a good idea to have lodge shoes or sandals to wear inside.

Bring gaiters to protect your boots and offer warmth, and these are especially essential on hiking peaks with soft snow to keep the snow out of your boots.

Things to Consider Before Packing for a Trip to Nepal

  • When planning a trip to Nepal, there are a few things you should know before you arrive.
  • Nepal's season and weather conditions
  • Trip Varieties ( short trekking, long trekking, off-the-beaten trek, tours, adventure sports, religious tours, photography tours, etc )
  • The greatest elevation that you will acquire.
  • Culture, practice, and traditions of the location you'll be visiting.
  • The temperature of the area you'll be exploring in the morning, day, and night.
  • Trekking and hiking path conditions

The variables listed above are the most crucial ones to be aware of before beginning your packing. Your packing should follow these principles so that you eliminate superfluous items and have an understanding of what to bring and what not to bring. Here are some essential packing and equipment lists for Nepal hiking.

  • Sleeping Bags - For most treks include a three or four-season bag, as well as a liner (silk or fleece) for when it becomes cooler. It may be too warm for a sleeping bag at times, so a fleece liner with a lodge blanket would suffice. For trekking and climbing adventures, both synthetic and down bags will suffice, however, quality bags with hoods are strongly recommended.
  • Water Bottles - These should be reusable, durable plastic bottles rather than disposable bottles. Most days, you'll need two liters of water for a hike or hiking peak excursion. Bladders are acceptable, but carry some tube insulation if you intend on getting up early. You might bring a UV filter (Steripen) to disinfect the water, however, most guests ask the lodge owner to boil some water the night before. If you want to climb, the crew will boil water at the camps, but remember to carry a flask for hot liquids.
  • Hygiene- Bring a wash kit because most lodges now have hot showers and there will always be occasions to wash your body and hair. You'll also need a travel towel, hand sanitizer, and moisturizing lotion to combat the dry air. Most lodges provide toilet paper, but most tourists prefer to pack their own just in case. The crew will dig a hole for you to use as a toilet on trekking peaks, and you will require toilet paper. Sanitary goods are available, however, the selection is limited, so we recommend bringing your own supplies from home. Bring nail clippers, a nail brush, and eye drops if you wear contact lenses to fight the dry, frequently dusty air. Lip balm and sun cream with a high SPF level is also crucial. It's also a good idea to carry earplugs because the lodges may be pretty noisy at times.
  • Medical - Bring a medical kit with you to deal with minor cuts and scrapes, as well as antiseptic wipes, cream, and zinc tape; you will also need headache tablets like ibuprofen (which also helps with altitude mountain sickness) and paracetamol or equivalent for a high temperature; medicine for travelers diarrhea and simple gastrointestinal issues; calamine lotion for sunburn and cream for dry skin; blister pads and tape

          Pescription treatments include acetazolamide (Diamox). dexamethasone, antibiotics, and asthma inhalers. 
Many individuals will wish to take Diamox to help them prevent high-altitude illness, however these are prescriptiond and should only be used with caution. There is a lot of information available regarding altitude disease medicines, and we have produced several articles staying healthy at altitude, accliating properly, and ascending at altitude.   

Note: Please keep in mind that you must consult your doctor about your personal eligibility for any medications, as well as any potential side effects or interactions. Please provide us with information on all normal medications that you expect to use during your trip, as well as any allergies or medical history that may be associated with them. In addition, you must examine the airline's and all nations' prescription restrictions and laws. For example, legislation controlling the shipment of certain pain management medications and the requirement to store insulin at an appropriate temperature, i.e. not in the cargo hold.

  • Trekking Kit- Hiking Kit includes trekking poles, an umbrella, dry bags, and a waterproof backpack cover. Bring a multi-tool, gaffer tape, spare laces, light cord, and cable ties with you for on-the-go repairs.
  • Electronics - You will be able to charge gadgets at the lodges for a cost, so carry your own power pack with USB connections to charge cellphones, iPods, and other electronic devices. Headlamps are required, and many are now rechargeable; batteries are also available in most village shops. If you do bring a tablet, a cushioned sleeve is essential. There are now mobile phone towers in the Khumbu region, however, it's best to have a local sim card. Most towns have a spot where you can go online and use a computer, and some of the larger lodges will have a wifi system that can be sluggish if there are a lot of people using it. Buff or neck gaiter, hiking crampons (like Kathoola Microspikes) for traversing a snowy or ice section of terrain, and insulated bottle cover are all optional items.
  • Snacks - Lodges and stores in the villages will sell a variety of snacks and chocolate, trail bars and mixes, energy gels and beverages, soft drinks, beer, and a variety of food brands for eating on the path. However, you may want to bring some of your own favorites from home. Vegan snacks and sweets, as well as gluten-free and gelatin-free sweets, are considerably less frequent, so carry these types of goods with you.

Other - passport and duplicates, visa, insurance policy, money, credit cards, airline ticket, books, cards, and games

PEAK TREKKING EQUIPMENT

All of the necessary equipment may be leased in Kathmandu or in the upper villages surrounding the renowned hiking peaks. For example, Mera Peak in Khare and Island Peak in Chukkung. This saves money on the daily charge as well as the extra weight that a porter must carry. However, you cannot guarantee the sizes or quality of certain things, particularly boots. Check every item first, notably the sharpness of the crampon points and the condition of the slings.

  • Crampons - 10 or 12-point snow climbing crampons are ideal for trekking peaks. The 12-point version has two forward-pointing spikes that are important for steep grades like the headwall on Island Peak, but for most of the summits where you will be walking on glaciers, a 10-point set will suffice. You can use strap-on crampons or clip-on crampons, but whatever you bring must fit your footwear.
  • Ice axe - For most trekking peaks, a straight walking axe is sufficient for coping with a slide and staying firm on steep terrain. Take a leash with you because it is easy to drop an axe, especially when exhausted, but make sure you know how to wield it.
  • Harness- For trekking peaks in Nepal, pack an alpine harness with a broad fleece belt and clippable and unflappable leg loops. This is especially convenient for putting on and taking off the harness without having to drag the loops over your crampon-equipped boots.
  • Helmet- A typical climbing helmet is required not only to protect you from falling objects from above but also to protect your head in the event of a fall. Check if the helmet is large enough to accommodate a cap or beanie underneath.
  • Jumar and leash: Jumar and leash are only required on summits with a fixed-line to aid your ascent, such as the headwall of Island Peak. The leash, which attaches the jumar to your harness, might be a length of 6mm rope or a sling. Your advisor will assist you in adjusting this to your size. In cold weather, choose a large jumar with a handle that can be controlled with a glove, and make sure you select the correct left or right-handed jumar. On a straight line, you're probably holding the jumar in one hand and the axe in the other. Bring two or three screwgate 'krabs,' which come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they will be used to clip onto a line while moving on snow as a team, as well as to tie a safety line to a fixed-line (alongside the jumar line) and to attach a sling to your harness.
  • Slings- Bring several short and medium slings to use when clipping into a rope and for safety on a fixed-line. Carry a medium sling over your body for emergency usage when climbing.
  • Abseiling device- this can be a figure of eight, which is easier to employ in cold weather, or a grigri or a stitch plate. There are many different sorts, but it's crucial to be familiar with them and evaluate how easy it is to operate them in the cold with gloves on.
  • Walking poles with snow baskets- Walking poles with snow baskets are important on any journey, especially when descending a steep rocky road, but on a hiking peak, they are also crucial for balance when moving on the snowy and glaciated territory. If the snow is soft, it is critical to utilize a snow basket.
  • Prussic Loop- In the case of an emergency, a prussic loop is a loop of 6mm rope wrapped around the climbing rope with a prussic knot. It is tied to your harness with a sling and a karabiner; the prussic can move up and down the rope, but when weight is applied, the prussic will lock onto the climbing rope.

Body Wear

  • Jacket with a Waterproof Shell

A shell jacket made of waterproof fabric protects you from the elements. Choose one with a waterproof zip and chest pockets.

If your jacket is excessively long, it may be difficult to link your harness to the holding cords.

  • Trousers with a Waterproof Shell

The waterproof shell climbing trousers must allow you to take large steps with ease. They must have full-length zippers that allow you to put your boots and socks on and off.

  • Down Jacket and Trousers for Expedition

These forms of apparel offer the best protection against extreme cold. To combat the cold, dress in an adventure-down jacket and pants. Purchase a separate pair of these jackets and pants for further versatility. It's challenging to handle an all-in-one bodysuit.

  • Jacket with Midweight Insulation

This jacket is comprised of synthetic insulation, which inhibits heat loss from the body. Waterproof coats are just insufficient in subzero weather.

  • Tops and bottoms made of fleece

Wear fleece shirts and pants as innerwear beneath the insulated jacket. A lightweight fleece shirt keeps your body temperature stable. A few zippered pockets on these pants allow you to keep small objects safe while climbing.

  • Top and bottom base layers

The top's thermal foundation should be thin. They might or might not have a zipper. Take a few pairs of long underwear for the bottom. Carry a thermal thin trouser as well for further heat loss protection.

Wearables

  • Snow Boots

A long snow gaiter keeps stones and pebbles out of your boots. Look for a gaiter that spans from the top of your calf muscle to the center of your boot.

  • Boots for Mountaineering

Bring a pair of climbing boots with you. The high-altitude mountaineering boots are particularly intended for climbing mountains higher than 8000 meters.

It's preferable if you choose the most comfortable boots with a detachable lining and adequate room for your toes.

  • Bivvy Boots with Down

Mountaineering boots are not permitted to be worn when sleeping in a sleeping bag or inside a tent. Down bivvy boots that are lightweight and water-resistant are required for this.

Head Wear 

  • Warm Hat

Your hat should be warm enough to keep you warm in the bitter cold. It should be very tight so that it does not blow away in heavy winds.

  • Ski Goggles

Carry a set of goggles that suit your face properly. If you use prescription glasses, these goggles should be able to keep them inside.

Bring at least two pairs of goggles, one with polarized lenses and one with amber lenses. This shields your sight from various scenarios.


Hand Wear 

  • Fleece Gloves 

This style of glove protects your fingertips from the cold. You may wear them to increase your grip when climbing.

  • Gloves for Mountaineering

This sort of glove is ideal for rope climbing. Look for a long-lasting model that is waterproof and fits properly.

  • Expedition Gloves

These gloves give the finest cold protection, however, they do not provide traction while climbing. Wear wrist loops to keep it from flying away.

  • Camping Equipment Down Sleeping Bags

During your climb, you may sleep practically anyplace with this sort of sleeping bag. The bag should offer insulation as well as some movement room for you.

  • Sleeping Mat Made of Foam and Inflatable

These two types of sleeping mats offer snow insulation while sleeping at such high altitudes. You can put your sleeping bag on top of these layers.

Random Extras 

  • Headlamps

This gizmo illuminates your surroundings without the use of a torch. However, be sure to carry some spare batteries with you.

  • Kit for First Aid

Carry a first-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as blister skin, crepe bandages, painkillers, and so on.

  • Toolbox

Some pocket equipment, such as a Swiss knife and lighters, might surely come in helpful in such remote locations. Carry a box with you to store all of these stuff.

Essentials for a High Land Trekking Packing List

Nepal's highland hikes include Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and other such destinations. To walk in Nepal's highlands, you must be properly equipped. Please review our list of required gear for this sort of hike.

Clothing

  • Thermal Shirts

A couple of pairs of thermal shirts might help you stay warm when hiking. Please ensure that they are flexible and pleasant to wear at high altitudes.

  • T-Shirts

Carry a couple of cotton-fitting t-shirts as a base layer. Wear extra long t-shirts to protect yourself from the cold.

  • Down Jacket

Down Jacket that is Waterproof No matter how much snow falls, an insulated waterproof jacket will keep you warm. Wear all inner layers of clothing to avoid heat loss.

  • Thermal Pants

These trousers should be worn as underwear. They should be thick enough to keep the heat out. It must, however, provide some movement flexibility.

  • Pants for Hiking

The trekking pants you wear must be tough. It's much better if you have a zip-off trouser. You may change it depending on the outside temperature.

  • Warm Cap

Purchase a woolen hat that covers your entire head, including your ears. Wear a scarf as well to protect your neck.

  • Gloves

Wear multiple gloves to prevent frostbite at higher elevations. When you get heated, you can remove the outer layer.

  • Socks for Hiking

Bring along a couple pairs of socks to keep your feet toasty at such high elevations. You may also wear two pairs of socks at the same time.

  • Boots for Hiking

Don't go on a hike in your sneakers! They may work for low-altitude hikes, but not for high-altitude excursions. Look for shoes that have a good grip and adequate room for your toes.

Equipment and Gear

  • Big Backpack

All of your packing materials must be carried in a sturdy backpack. Bring a single bag rather than several little packages.

  • Rain Protection

Keeping your bag secure during a rainstorm might be difficult if you are not prepared. Get a rain cover that fits your bag exactly.

  • Bag for Sleeping

At such a high altitude, keeping warm should be your top priority. As a result, bring a sleeping bag that fits your size and a silk lining.

  • Purifier for Water

We cannot guarantee that the various water sources you may come across will give you with clean drinking water. Carry a small water filter, like the Steripen.

  • Map of the Trek

You can get lost in the mountains if you don't have a guide with you. Bring a thorough trek map that details where you need to travel and what locations you'll encounter.

Accessories

  • Hydration Bladder

To avoid dehydration at such high altitudes, bring a bottle of water or a hydration bladder. To recuperate energy after such a long walk, you need to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water every day.

  • Sunglasses

To protect your eyes from powerful UV rays at a higher elevation, choose a pair of sunglasses that are 100 percent UV protected.

  • Towel

A little quick-drying towel can be really useful. After each shower, you must quickly dry yourself.

  • Charger on the Go

It is a good idea to bring some technological gadgets with you on your trip. However, have a portable charger on hand in case you need to use your gadgets to call someone.

  • Camera

A large DSLR camera is not viable for this hike. Carry a portable sports camera with you, such as a GoPro, SLR, or mirrorless camera.

Miscellaneous

  • Toiletries

Carry all of your toiletries according to your preferences. You may require a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, lip balm, tissues, deodorant, razors, tampons, and other goods.

  • Kits for First Aid

Safety is essential. Carry pain relievers, rehydration salts, Imodium, bandages, and an antiseptic liquid. Keep these items in a portable first-aid kit.

Essentials for a Low Land Trekking Packing List

Nepal has various hiking spots. If you've chosen a Poon Hill trip, Langtang Valley trek, or any lowland trek, you'll need to carry goods that differ from those required for highland treks.

The majority of lowland hiking sites do not suffer subzero temperatures. To keep oneself warm, you can avoid bringing heavy clothing items.

The packing list for low-land trekking is shown below.

  • Hiking Pants Clothing

Purchase a pair of pants that are both comfy and flexible. You can bring numerous pairs of them because you won't be able to wash them on the walk.

  • Shorts that are lightweight

Pack a few pairs of comfy shorts to wear while sleeping. You won't have to worry about the cold at night because you'll be sleeping in a lodge.

  • Hat

You should wear a hat to protect your hair and face from the sun. So remember to bring a hat.

  • Jacket made of fleece

During the summer, these areas do not get particularly chilly. However, it is preferable to be prepared in case the climate continues to deteriorate.

Pack one fleece jacket to keep you warm in the cooler weather. At the same time, it keeps you warm if it rains throughout the summer.

  • Windbreaker

Strong winds can be seen in several of the lowland walking spots. Get yourself a wind jacket to keep you safe from the elements. When it's sunny, this jacket can shield you from harmful UV radiation.

  • Hiking Boots

Your footwear should be appropriate for the terrain of your walk. Hiking shoes are the greatest option since they are weather and location resistant.

Accessories

  • Water Bottle

Staying hydrated helps you maintain your energy during your journey. Carry a bottle with a minimum capacity of 1 liter of water.

  • Backpack for Small Children

A backpack is required to carry the necessities for your adventure. However, carrying a big backpack may make your walk more difficult owing to the increased weight on your back.

  • Gloves

You may believe that you will not need gloves throughout the summer. However, it is preferable to be prepared. Carry some lightweight gloves just in case.

  • Towel

Though most guesthouses supply towels, you can bring a small towel for personal use throughout your stroll. A tiny towel might also come in useful if you don't want to use someone else's towel.

  • Slippers

Wearing lightweight slippers while resting is a good idea. So, bring a pair with you because wearing hiking shoes for an extended period of time might create blisters.

Miscellaneous

  • Toiletries

When traveling, you must have toiletries with you. Remember to bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, soap, shampoo, and lotion. Make certain that they are travel-sized.

  • Bag for Garbage

You don't want to contaminate the place in which you go, do you? Carry a medium-sized trash bag with you and empty it every day when you stop for a break.

  • ALLOWANCE FOR LUGGAGE ON INTERNAL FLIGHT TO LUKLA

Please keep in mind that typical baggage limitations for internal flights are 15kg total, which includes your porter's bag (12.5kg) in the hold as well as your hand luggage (trek day bag). Of course, you can use your hiking boots and jacket to assist reduce the weight of your pack. You will have also left any city clothing or additional travel gear in Kathmandu. If your total weight exceeds 15kg, you must pay an extra baggage fee on the aircraft, which is only $1/kg. If you have a very hefty porters bag that necessitates the use of more porters, you must pay this cost.Most individuals can manage a 12.5kg porter bag plus their personal day bag.

  • Encouragement of Sustainable and Responsible Tourism

To support our purpose and activities in adopting sustainable and responsible tourism for the long-term benefit of local people and the environment, we ask that you do the following:

  1. When feasible, use energy-efficient equipment.
  2. Bring a reusable water bottle, toothbrush, and other personal things to save waste.
  3. Limit your usage of plastic bags.
  4. Travel light and keep your backpack as light as possible for the sake of our porters' safety and wellbeing. For your information, a porter can carry a total weight of 25 kilograms per two customers.

Last Words

As we come to a close, we hope you have a good idea of what should include on your packing list. Keep in mind that less is more!

You don't need to bring a sleeping bag or any other related item for the low land journey. This style of hiking allows you to spend nights in your hotel room pleasantly.

However, be sure you have all of the necessary equipment for mountain climbing.

Make sound selections about what to bring and what not to bring. We wish you a memorable and exciting journey in Nepal.

Namaste!