Ultimate Packing List for Nepal Trekking

Packing correctly for a Nepal trek determines comfort and safety. Over-packing adds weight; under-packing risks hypothermia or discomfort. This comprehensive list guides you through every category of gear. ## Clothing - The Layering System ### Base Layers (Next to skin) - 3 merino wool long-sleeve shirts - 2 pairs thermal leggings - 3 pairs wool socks - Never wear cotton—it holds moisture ### Mid Layers (Insulation) - 1 fleece jacket - 1 wool sweater - Lightweight down puffer jacket - Windproof shell jacket - Windproof shell pants ### Outer Layers (Protection) - Waterproof/breathable rain jacket - Waterproof pants - Gaiters (protect boots from snow/mud) ### Footwear - 1 pair broken-in hiking boots - 1 pair lightweight camp shoes/sandals - Crampons (for winter/ice) ### Head, Hands, Feet - Wool beanie - Balaclava or neck gaiter - Sunhat with brim - 2 pairs wool gloves - 1 pair insulated gloves - Foot warmers for extreme cold ### Undergarments - 4 pairs merino wool underwear - 3 sports bras (for women) - 1 pair thermal underwear ## Footwear in Detail **The Single Most Important Decision**: Proper hiking boots prevent 80% of trek injuries. Requirements: - Broken-in (wear for 100+ miles before trekking) - Ankle support for uneven terrain - Waterproof and breathable - Quality insoles - Griptraction soles Recommended brands: Salomon, Merrell, La Sportiva, Scarpa ## Backpack and Luggage - 50-65L trekking backpack - Daypack (20-30L) - Duffel bag for porters (if using porters) - Packing cubes (organize small items) - Compression bags (reduce volume) Total weight for trek: 10-15kg with porter, 6-8kg without. ## Sleeping and Shelter - Sleeping bag (-5 to -10°C rating) - Sleeping pad (foam or inflatable) - Pillow or inflatable pillow case - Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth, saves weight) Note: Most teahouses provide basic bedding, but sleeping bags prevent illness. ## Hygiene and Personal Care - Biodegradable soap - Toothbrush and toothpaste - Deodorant - Feminine hygiene products (stock up in Kathmandu) - Sunscreen (high SPF for altitude) - Lip balm with SPF - Wet wipes - Toilet paper and lighter - Hand sanitizer - Nail clippers - Comb or brush - Mirror (small) - Moisturizer for dry skin - Blister treatment - Antibiotic ointment ## First Aid and Medicine **Important**: Medications for your specific needs. Essential supplies: - Altitude sickness medication (Diamox if prescribed) - Pain relief (ibuprofen) - Diarrhea treatment (Imodium) - Nausea treatment (Dramamine) - Antihistamine - Electrolyte powder - Blister kit - Elastic bandage - Gauze, tape, bandages - Tweezers - First aid book Consult your doctor before departure about altitude sickness prevention. ## Electronics and Documents - Passport + copies - Travel insurance documents - Trek permit/booking confirmations - Cash (US dollars preferred) and credit card - Phone and charger - Power bank - Camera or GoPro - Headlamp + extra batteries - USB cables - Universal power adapter ## Miscellaneous but Important - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L) - Water purification tablets - Trekking poles (reduce knee impact 25%) - Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, chocolate) - Multi-tool or knife - Lighter or waterproof matches - Sewing kit - Duct tape (wrapped around pencil) - Rope/carabiner - Map and compass ## Camera Gear (Optional) - Main camera - Backup lens - Tripod - Filters - Memory cards - Extra batteries - Lens cleaning kit Mountain photography requires weatherproof equipment. ## Items NOT to Bring **Too Heavy/Unnecessary**: - Full-sized laptop - Hardcover books - Multiple pairs of shoes - Entire drugstore of medications - Full-sized tent (teahouses provided) - Expensive jewelry - Formal clothing ## Packing Strategy ### By Weight Distribution - Heavy items (water, electronics) close to back - Mid-weight in center - Light items (clothes) outside - Keep daypack light (water, snacks, camera) ### By Accessibility - Rain jacket on top - Medications in side pocket - Snacks easily reachable - Thermal layers accessible for evening changes ### Weight Management - Weigh everything before packing - Total base weight (without food/water): 8-10kg - With porter: Can afford heavier sleeping bag - Without porter: Minimize to under 8kg ## Climate-Specific Adjustments ### Everest Base Camp - Extra insulation (goes above 5,000m) - Heavy down jacket essential - Crampons for icy sections - Extra socks ### Annapurna Base Camp - Rain gear more important (steep, more weather) - Less extreme cold gear needed - Extra blisters prevention gear - Lighter sleeping bag acceptable ### Off-Season (November-March) - Double the layers - Heavy insulated puffer - Thermal base layers - Extreme-cold sleeping bag (-15°C) ## The Final Checklist Before departure, verify: - Boots are broken in - Sleeping bag is appropriate rating - All electronics have charges and cables - Medications are packed - Copies of important documents made - Travel insurance purchased - Backpack is balanced and comfortable - Total weight is manageable - All items have been used in training hikes ## Pro Packing Tips 1. **Wear your heaviest items** on the plane (boots, jacket) 2. **Vacuum seal** clothes if limited space 3. **Roll instead of fold** clothes to save space 4. **Double-bag medications** (one in carry-on, one in check) 5. **Bring extra plastic bags** for dirty laundry 6. **Label everything** with your name and email 7. **Take a photo** of packed backpack for insurance 8. **Break in gear** before the trek 9. **Test all electronics** before departure 10. **Consider renting** expensive items in Nepal Proper packing sets you up for a safe, comfortable trek. Start packing 2 weeks before departure to allow time for adjustments.