It's important to pack the right items for your trek. Don't forget important things, and definitely don't bring too much as you and/or your porter won't be happy with a load that's too heavy. Here is a list of what you need for a comfortable trekking adventure.

The Essentials

  • Shoes - Lightweight hiking boots are great. Make sure they are comfortable and you have worn them in before arriving in Nepal. Trail running shoes will work, too, which are lighter but not ideal if it rains or snow (unless they are made with Goretex)
  • Shorts
  • Trekking pants
  • T-shirts - Lightweight, quick-drying
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Fleece
  • Rain jacket  
  • Down jacket
  • Socks
  • Backpack - With a good waist and chest belt; a light one should be enough (e.g. 35 liters capacity)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Cash - Bring enough ruppees to cover your trek. Once you begin trekking, there are no more ATMs (except in Namche)
  • Water - 1L bottle should be enough. You can refill or buy new bottles in tea houses along the way
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat
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Optional

  • Trekking pole(s)
  • Small first-aid kit - Band-Aids, Diamox (for altitude sickness), antiseptic cream
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper - Which you can buy along the way
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Soap / Shampoo
  • Flashlight / Headlight - A headlight is handy at night, especially since electricity comes and goes pretty often
  • Dust mask - For dusty sections of the trail
  • Camera
  • Sleeping bag liner

For a more in-depth packing list, check out one of our specialists, Jamie McGuinness, packing list, who's spent decades trekking in Nepal.

Buying & Renting Gear in Kathmandu

If you forget something—don't worry! You can buy anything on this list in Kathmandu, just make sure you save some time before your trek to go shopping. Kathmandu has both brand-name and knock-off shops that cater to the thousands of travelers coming to Nepal each year who lack all the necessary equipment. For where to shop and local tips, check out our article on buying and renting gear in Kathmandu.