Certain basic trekking equipment is essential for all trekking routes in Nepal. Depending on the area, season, region, and altitude, it is most important to have the right equipment with you or else you may run the risk of discomfort or may even have to shorten your trek. We nor you want this to happen!
So we have compiled a recommended comprehensive list of necessities that will prepare you for an enjoyable trip. The following gives you a general idea of what to bring to Nepal including clothing, equipment & gear for trekking in Nepal. )
Clothing
- Walking shoes: either boots, light hiking or running shoes, well broken in. As there may be rain, mud or snow; boots are sometimes necessary therefore you should bring them despite the extra hassle. Many times the entire trek can be done in tennis shoes or believe it or not, sandals! However, if there is snow, you can run the risk of frostbite, or at least cold feet if you do not have waterproof boots. Make sure to bring spare laces.
- A pair of sandals and slippers to wear around guesthouse, campsite area or when your boots may be wet.
- A warm jacket. Fiber filled or down should be adequate. This is especially necessary during winter from December to February.
- A rainproof jacket with a hood or a poncho. Get the one that is guaranteed waterproof.
- A nylon windbreaker and wind pants.
- 1-2 woolen shirts and thick sweaters. During winter months, December through February these items are essential.
- A pair of lightweight/ heavy weight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks. Cheap, loose cotton pants are also available in Kathmandu. Windproof/ waterproof trousers are necessary on all treks going above 3,500 m.
- 1-2 pairs of thermal underwear. These are excellent to sleep in at night in the winter months and are invaluable.
- A tracksuit could be useful for wearing when resting in teahouses.
- 1 pair of loose fitting long shorts/ skirts (knee-length preferable).
- 1 lightweight long sleeved –shirt is particularly suitable for avoiding sun burn.
- Hats: a woolen hat to wear in the morning and at night during winter and a sunhat that has a wide brim to cover the face and neck.
- A pair of gloves or mittens. Leather gloves with lining and woolen are best.
- 2 - 3 pairs of both thin and thick woolen socks. Stuff an extra pair in your bag just in case.
- Underwear” normal quantity and swimming suit.
- Hankies or bandana scarf (for dusty, dry areas).
Equipment and Accessories
- A duffle bag, canvas or nylon, without a frame (for porters to carry gear).
- A daypack or rucksack for personal belonging for you to carry for the day e.g. toiletries, camera, tissue, soap, etc.
- A sleeping bag, warm to 20 degrees F, either down or fibre-filled (or you can rent one in Kathmandu).
- A water bottle . (1 litre or 1 quart; be sure that it does not leak).
- Snow glasses and sunglasses.
- 2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones. 6-10 smaller plastic bags to dispose garbage.
- Wallet and /or money belt with compartment for coins.
- Toiletries with large and small towels. Toilet paper can be by in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
- Small headlamp and/ or flashlight with spare batteries and bulbs candles and lighter to burn toilet paper.
- Snow gaiters essential during winter.
- An umbrella (optional), which is quite useful to as a sunshade and useful when it rains.
- Reading materials, camera and film, rechargeable batteries, game items (optional), note book, rubber band, pen and pencil, envelopes, a diary, a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), a small pillow or headrest (optional). Thermoses (optional)- an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of passport photograph.
- A first-aid or medical kit (with Tiger balm and bandages)
- Sunblock or cream (for lips and body)
- Mosquito netting (and mosquito repellent) during monsoon season.
- Sewing kit
- 1 or 2 walking sticks / poles
- Travel alarm clock and/ or wrist watch
- Emergency contact numbers / business cards