Typically, individuals tend to feel enthusiastic about their journey and pack nearly everything they can. This tendency is considered a natural human trait. However, it is important to take into account the items you bring along for your trekking expedition. Domestic flights and porters impose weight restrictions, so we advise you to refer to the provided Nepal Trekking Gear List and only bring the necessary items for your trip.

Important documents of Trekking Gear List

• It is essential to have passports that remain valid for at least six months, accompanied by additional passport-sized photographs and valid airline tickets.
• Copies of the passport, visa application, and insurance documents should be made.
• Sufficient cash in any currency is necessary for visa fees and other expenses during the trip.
• Ensure that you possess a valid credit card and International Standard Bank cash or ATM cards.

Head

• Headbands or scarves can be worn to shield against dust.
• Woolen hats are recommended to provide coverage for the ears.
• A headlight with spare batteries is necessary.
• Protect your eyes with sunglasses that offer UV protection or opt for appropriate mountain glasses.

Upper Body

• Include polypro shirts in your packing list, consisting of one half sleeve shirt and two long sleeves.
• Pack lightweight and easily transportable thermal tops.
• Remember to bring a fleece windcheater jacket for protection against the wind.
• Ensure you have a waterproof shell jacket to keep yourself dry during wet weather.
• Don’t forget to include a down jacket for added warmth.
• Lastly, include a Gore-Tex jacket with a hood to shield yourself from adverse weather conditions.

Hands

• Bring a single pair of lightweight gloves made from any material, preferably waterproof.
• Pack mittens that include a Gore-Tex over mitt combined with a warm polar fleece mitt liner.
• Ensure you have one set for each season.

Lower Body

• Select non-cotton innerwear for your trek.
• Pack one pair of hiking shorts and one pair of hiking trousers.
• Include lightweight thermal bottoms, with one pair suitable for each season.
• Bring either fleece or woolen trousers or opt for waterproof shell pants made of breathable fabric.

Feet

• Pack thin, lightweight inner socks, along with heavy poly or wool socks and one pair of cotton socks.
• Bring a pair of hiking boots with spare laces and ankle support. Ensure they have sturdy soles, are water-resistant, and have been properly “broken in”.
• Include a pair of trainers or running shoes, as well as sandals.
• Consider bringing gaiters, particularly for winter treks on snowy terrain. Opt for the optional “low” ankle-high version.

Sleeping

• Prepare a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius or 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Consider bringing a fleece sleeping bag liner as an optional addition to your gear.

Rucksack and Travel Bags

• Prepare a medium-sized rucksack, ranging from 50 to 70 liters or 3000 to 4500 cubic inches, which can also be used as a carry-on for airplanes.
• Include one large duffel bag in your packing list.
• Bring a small daypack or backpack with comfortable shoulder padding to carry your valuable items.
• Remember to pack small padlocks specifically for securing your duffel and kit bags.
• Consider including two substantial waterproof covers for your rucksack as optional items.

Medical

• Carry a convenient and personal first-aid kit.
• Include items like aspirin, first-aid tape, and adhesive plasters.
• Pack a skin-blister repair kit.
• Bring anti-diarrhea and anti-headache pills.
• Include anti-cough and cold medicine in your supplies.
• Ensure you have AMS prevention pills such as Diamox or Acetazolamide.
• Carry a stomach antibiotic like Ciprofloxacin, but avoid bringing respiratory depressants like sleeping pills.
• Include either water purification tablets or a water filter.
• Bring a set of earplugs for noise reduction.
• Don’t forget to pack an extra pair of sunglasses, prescription glasses, and any necessary supplies for contact lenses.

Practical Items

• Carry a small roll of repair tape or duct tape, along with a sewing-repair kit.
• Include a cigarette lighter and a small box of matches.
• Bring an alarm clock or a watch to keep track of time.
• Don’t forget to pack a digital camera along with extra memory cards and batteries. Include extra-large Ziploc bags in your gear.
• Bring two reusable water bottles, each with a one-liter capacity.
• Include a multi-tool kit for various purposes.
• Pack four large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks.
• Consider bringing binoculars as an optional item.
• Include either a compass or a GPS as an optional navigation tool.

Toiletries

• Pack a medium-sized towel that dries quickly.
• Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, and multi-purpose soap, preferably biodegradable.
• Bring deodorant and nail clippers.
• Don’t forget to pack face and body moisturizer.
• Include necessary female hygiene products.
• Bring a small mirror for personal use.
• Remember to include personal hygiene items such as wet wipes (baby wipes), tissues or toilet rolls, and anti-bacterial hand wash or sanitizer.

Extras/Luxuries

• Carry a trail map or guidebook for navigation.
• Bring a book for reading during your trek.
• Include a journal or notebook, along with a pen and a music player.
• Pack a portable travel game such as chess, backgammon, scrabble, or playing cards to keep yourself entertained at teahouses or camps.
• Don’t forget to include a modest swimsuit.
• Bring a lightweight pillowcase or a stuffed neck pillow for added comfort during your journey.

This list of equipment and gear for trekking in Nepal will assist you in organizing the necessary items. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us or call us at  +1 650-265-7523 (Prajwol) or +977 98510 40803 (Ganesh). Keep in mind that Nepal’s trails are steep, and the weight of your belongings matters. Prior to your trek, carefully review your gear list and reduce unnecessary items in advance.

 

Pre-owned Trekking Gear List

Second-hand trekking and mountaineering equipment are frequently utilized by fellow trekkers and climbers during Himalayan expeditions. These items can often be found for sale or rent in various locations such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, Namche Bazaar, and along popular routes. It is even possible to come across brand-new gear that remained unused from previous expeditions. In Kathmandu, the southern border of Thamel is lined with shops offering expedition kits, and it may surprise you to find that the shop owner you’re negotiating with is an experienced climber.

Prices for second-hand gear can range from inexpensive to exorbitant, and the quality is not always consistent. Some trekkers advertise equipment for sale on notice boards in restaurants, hotels, and at the KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project) office. Keep in mind that locally manufactured items like backpacks and jackets may bear counterfeit labels. While such gear may last for a single trek, some items are more durable.

In recent times, there has been the establishment of reputable outlet stores along Tridevi Marg in Thamel and Durbar Marg, the road leading from the former royal palace, now the Narayanhiti National Museum. While some individuals may be able to acquire everything they need in the city, it is safer to arrive at least minimally prepared. If you plan to buy or rent equipment in Nepal, be aware that the quality can vary, and a sleeping bag advertised with a -20°C rating may not meet your expectations.

Clothing

Exploring the challenging terrain of Nepal involves encountering rapid changes in temperature. Ascending sunlit hills with a loaded backpack can cause a buildup of body heat, while high-altitude areas, shaded by the majestic Himalayas or during cloudy conditions, experience swift drops in temperature. It is crucial to adapt to these conditions promptly by being able to adjust your clothing. Wearing all-cotton material may not be ideal as it absorbs and retains moisture, leaving you cold and uncomfortable. The initial layer of clothing should be moisture-wicking to keep you dry.

In this domain, there are various specialized brands available. At higher altitudes, particularly during winter, long thermal underwear is essential. Petroleum-based synthetic polypropylene thermals can serve as a practical inner layer, despite their reputation for developing unpleasant odors. Nylon is known for its durability, while silk offers lightweight comfort but requires extra care and may have seam issues. It’s worth noting that there are silk alternatives in the market that do not rely on harmful practices, such as ahimsa silk, peace silk, vegetarian silk, and tussah or wild silk.

The subsequent layer should provide insulation for warmth. Traditionally, we rely on woolen clothing to keep us cozy in cold conditions. A sweater or synthetic fiber-insulated fleece jacket is effective in wet weather and dries quickly. Look for underarm “pit zips” that offer ventilation or the option to remove the sleeves if needed.

For the outer layer, choose a lightweight and soft waterproof shell that adds warmth and keeps you dry. Opt for a sizable shell with a zip-out liner to accommodate a sweater or fleece jacket. It is essential to ensure that the seams are properly sealed to prevent water penetration.

 

Packs

While there are numerous packs on the market, prioritize selecting one that provides a comfortable fit when loaded, offers convenient accessibility, and has the ability to expand its capacity when needed. It’s advisable to carry a spare plastic buckle, particularly for the waistband, as this will help protect the fasteners from potential damage when not wearing the pack, such as accidental stepping or breakage. When it comes to packing the equipment and supplies for porters, opt for durable and brightly-colored duffel bags to ensure easy recognition, and consider using ones that can be securely locked for added security.

Shelter

The specific route you choose and your preferred style of trekking will determine whether a tent is necessary. If you intend to camp or seek privacy in areas without lodges, having a tent becomes essential. It is generally recommended to have a tent that is spacious enough to accommodate sitting up and possibly providing shelter for others, including porters, in case of emergencies. When selecting a tent, factors such as weight, suitability for different seasons, and ease of setup should be taken into account.

For most trekkers, a three-season tent with proper ventilation and a rain fly covering the openings proves to be versatile enough. It is important to ensure that the tent’s seams are sealed effectively. Familiarize yourself with the setup instructions and practice assembling the tent before your departure. Additionally, remember to bring a groundsheet to keep your gear clean and dry, as well as to prevent moisture from seeping up from the ground.

In case of emergencies, it is advisable to carry a lightweight “emergency blanket” made of aluminized polyester, a bivouac shelter, or a plastic sheet that can serve as a makeshift shelter.

Cooking Gear

In Kathmandu, a variety of gear can be found for trekkers. It is important to note that regulations mandate self-sufficiency for trekkers, as well as their porters, cooks, and guides, particularly within national parks. To comply with these regulations, it is advisable for trekkers to use stoves that are fueled by kerosene, propane, butane, or other similar fuels, instead of relying on wood for cooking and heating purposes. This is especially crucial in high-altitude and conservation areas.

While kerosene is the most commonly available fuel in the hills, some shops along popular trekking routes may offer mixed-fuel canisters, such as Primus, for sale. It is recommended to purchase cartridges from trekking shops in Kathmandu that also sell stoves capable of utilizing portable canisters and kerosene. However, it’s important to note that the quality of available kerosene is often subpar, leading to frequent clogging of most stoves and necessitating regular cleaning of the fuel jet. It is advisable to become familiar with the operation of your stove before embarking on the trek and to carry spare parts for critical components to ensure preparedness.

Sleeping Gear

Having a sleeping bag, whether filled with down or synthetic fibers, is typically essential for ensuring comfort when temperatures drop below freezing. While it’s true that lodges along popular routes often provide quilts, comforters, and blankets, it’s not always guaranteed that they will be available, adequate, or clean, particularly during busy periods.

Although some trekkers on well-traveled routes manage without a sleeping bag, it is not recommended to do so, especially when trekking at high altitudes. While mattresses and pillows can be found in lodges along popular trekking trails, they may not be available everywhere, especially during peak season when late arrivals sometimes have to sleep in dining halls. While foam padding is typically provided in most lodges, those who choose to camp might require an air mattress, foam pad, or inflatable pad to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.

Eye-Wear

It is crucial to wear sunglasses that can effectively absorb ultraviolet (UV) light while trekking. Sunglasses that fail to do so can potentially harm the eyes by dilating the pupils and exposing them to harmful UV rays. Using a visor to shield the eyes from direct sunlight is also highly recommended. For individuals who wear prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, it is advisable to bring a spare pair and a copy of the prescription in case replacements are required. Those who wear contact lenses should be diligent in their regular cleaning routine, as infections are more common in Nepal. Boiled water can be used for cleaning purposes. Alternatively, using disposable extended-wear contact lenses with a lower risk of infection can be considered, although the packaging may add some extra weight to carry.

Some individuals may choose to utilize Nepal’s trails as an opportunity to strengthen their eyes by foregoing the use of glasses or contact lenses and practicing focusing on objects at varying distances and in different lighting conditions. However, it is important to note that accidents and injuries on the trail are a leading cause of harm and even occasional fatalities among trekkers.

Water Containers

It is recommended for each individual carry a water bottle with a capacity of at least 1 quart (1 liter). Trekking shops in Nepal offer a variety of options, including plastic bottles as well as lightweight stainless-steel or aluminum containers. Stainless steel or aluminum bottles are particularly suitable for holding hot water that has been boiled. To utilize the warmth effectively, one can wrap the bottle in a clean sock, hat, or another piece of clothing, creating a portable heat source that can be kept close to the body or even placed inside a sleeping bag for additional warmth.

Other Nepal Trekking Gear List

It is advisable to wear footwear that provides ankle support, and at the end of the day, lightweight foam or rubber sandals can be a comfortable choice.

While a Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife combination can be useful, it may be unnecessary unless you specifically require multi-functional tools. In most cases, a simple pocket knife will suffice, or you may not need any tool at all.

Umbrellas serve multiple purposes, including protection from rain, shielding against the sun on hot days, and providing privacy during nature calls. Collapsible ski poles and walking sticks, often crafted from lightweight bamboo and known as “Lauro” in Nepali, can greatly alleviate strain on the knees and reduce the burden of carrying a heavy load.

Carrying several handkerchiefs or bandannas is recommended. A scarf can be used as a makeshift face mask in windy or dusty areas, during travel, or to dry cups, plates, and hands. It can also be convenient to keep a separate bandana for dealing with a runny nose caused by colds and respiratory infections. Petroleum jelly, ChapStick, and lip balm are effective for preventing or treating chafing in cold weather.

For women, a reusable menstrual cup such as the Mooncup is an environmentally friendly alternative to tampons and sanitary napkins. It is particularly suitable for travel and can last for years. It is important to become familiar with its usage and cleaning before relying on it during a trek.

Include biodegradable soap, a washcloth or towel, and a toothbrush in your packing list. Additionally, bring a headlamp, a small flashlight (torch), and spare batteries, preferably lithium batteries which are more reliable, especially for powering modern cameras. Good-quality batteries might not be readily available outside the main trekking routes in the hills. It is recommended to carry rechargeable batteries and extra charged battery packs whenever possible. Don’t forget to pack a universal adapter as the electricity in Nepal typically operates at 220 volts/50 cycles.

As Nepal is becoming increasingly electrified, there are more places along popular routes where you can recharge your devices. However, there may be a fee charged by entrepreneurs for battery charging services. It is wise to carry spare batteries as less-frequented trails might only offer solar power without the necessary accessories for recharging devices. Since Nepal lacks battery recycling facilities, it is considered environmentally ethical to bring back spent batteries to your home country for proper disposal.

Consider carrying earplugs, as they are easily misplaced, to mitigate noise disturbances in hotels, buses, or in case of loud dogs during nighttime. Having a Global Positioning System (GPS) device or a compass is recommended for high-mountain travel, although satellite reception may be weakened in sections of Himalayan drainages due to steep gorges.

Insects are typically not a concern in high-altitude areas, and malaria is rare among trekkers in Nepal. However, if you plan to extensively travel in lowland regions during the warmer months or the monsoon season, it is advisable to use insect repellent and a mosquito net while sleeping. Repellents containing picaridin or DEET (N, N-diethyl meta-toluamide) are effective against mosquitoes, or you can opt for natural repellents like citronella or eucalyptus oil-based products.

Insecticide sprays and powders (preferably those containing pyrethrins or permethrin) can be applied to the sleeping bag or netting to combat insects. Anti-leech oil can be found in some pharmacies in Kathmandu for treks during the monsoon season.

Having a supply of duct tape can serve as a versatile temporary solution for various situations. It is practical to wrap a few feet of tape around a flashlight handle or water bottle for future needs.

If you play a portable musical instrument, you may consider bringing it along. A harmonica, recorder, or flute can help bridge communication gaps and provide entertainment. Think about other social or entertainment skills you can share, such as portrait drawing or simple magic tricks. Most trekkers carry reading materials and writing supplies, and hotels along popular routes often offer paperbacks for sale or exchange.

Including a pack of cards or miniature versions of popular board games like Scrabble can be a great way to pass the time, add excitement to a restaurant setting, and connect with fellow trekkers.

Having a particle mask to protect against dust and fumes in cities or during bus journeys is a prudent decision. These masks can be obtained from pharmacies in Kathmandu.

Leave No Trace

• Practice Responsible Waste Management (Carry It Away, Leave No Trace)
• Preserve the Natural Environment as You Discover It
• Show Respect towards Farm Animals, Wildlife, and their Habitat
• Demonstrate Consideration for Others, Local Customs, and Cultural Traditions

The Code of Conduct for Responsible Trekking, endorsed by ACAP and KEEP, outlines a set of guidelines to minimize environmental impact and ensure a positive trekking experience. It includes the following recommendations:

• Support and commend lodges and trekking companies in their conservation efforts to protect the environment.
• Recognize that campfires and indulging in hot showers can be seen as luxuries, particularly in areas where locals rely on fuel solely for cooking purposes.
• Utilize the provided washing and toilet facilities whenever available. If none are accessible, ensure you are at least 30 meters (100 ft) away from any water source and bury waste at a depth of at least 15 cm (6 in) using biodegradable toiletries.
• Minimize the use of non-biodegradable items and responsibly pack them out to maintain the integrity of the surroundings.
• Demonstrate reverence for religious shrines and artifacts by treating them with respect and refraining from any actions that may cause harm or offense.
• Refrain from giving money, sweets, or other items to begging children, as this can perpetuate a dependency cycle and disrupt local dynamics.
• Recognize that capturing photographs is a privilege, not an entitlement. Seek permission before taking pictures and honor people’s wishes regarding their privacy.
• Dress modestly, taking into account local customs, and avoid overt displays of physical affection that may be culturally inappropriate or offensive.
• Remember that as a representative of a different culture, your actions and behavior have an enduring impact, even after returning home.
• Foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding by engaging respectfully with the local community, embracing their customs, and being open to learning from their way of life.

In many instances, you may come across waste receptacles positioned outside lodges, shops, and well-traveled trekking paths. However, it is common practice for the contents of these bins, including harmful plastics, to be incinerated, while metals are simply discarded. Additionally, litter is frequently disposed of by being thrown off the rear areas of lodges and shops or accumulated in nearby locations. Engage in conversation with the owners and operators of the lodges to express your preferences regarding proper waste disposal. As a valued customer, your input can have an influential effect on their practices.