Packing List for Himalayan Trekking: The Essentials

Core Principle: Layering System

Himalayan weather changes rapidly. A proper layering system lets you adapt instantly.

Base Layer (Worn Next to Skin)

• 2x Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve tops
• 1x Merino wool or synthetic long johns
• No cotton — retains moisture, causes hypothermia

Mid Layer (Insulation)

• 1x Fleece jacket (Polartec 200+ weight)
• 1x Lightweight down jacket or synthetic insulated jacket

Outer Layer (Protection)

• 1x Hardshell jacket (Gore-Tex or equivalent, 3-layer)
• 1x Hardshell pants (full side zips for boots)

Extreme Cold Layer (Above 4,500m / Summit Days)

• 1x Expedition down jacket (800+ fill, 200g+ fill weight)
• 1x Down pants or heavy fleece pants
• 1x Expedition mittens (down, windproof shell)
• 1x Balaclava or neck gaiter + warm beanie

Footwear

• Trekking boots: Broken-in, waterproof, semi-rigid sole (B1/B2). Size up 0.5-1 for thick socks + swelling.
• Camp shoes: Lightweight Crocs, down booties, or sandals for evenings.
• Socks: 4-5x Merino wool trekking socks, 1-2x liner socks, 1x thick sleeping socks.
• Gaiters: Essential for snow, scree, mud.

Backpacks & Storage

• Daypack: 30-35L (carry water, camera, layers, snacks)
• Duffel bag: 80-100L (for porter, max 15-20kg)
• Dry bags / stuff sacks: Organize and waterproof gear inside duffel
• Rain cover: For daypack

Sleep System

• Sleeping bag: Rated -10°C to -20°C comfort (down preferred). We provide on request.
• Sleeping bag liner: Silk or fleece (adds warmth, keeps bag clean)
• Inflatable sleeping pad: R-value 4+ (we provide foam pad)

Accessories

• Headlamp: 300+ lumens, red light mode, spare batteries (cold kills batteries)
• Sunglasses: Category 3-4, wrap-around, side shields
• Ski goggles: For summit days / high wind
• Trekking poles: Collapsible, carbon fiber (reduce knee impact 25%)
• Water bottles: 2x 1L wide-mouth Nalgene (insulated sleeves)
• Water purification: Tablets (chlorine dioxide) or filter (Sawyer/Katadyn)
• Sunscreen: SPF 50+, broad spectrum, lip balm SPF 30+
• First aid (personal): Blister kit (Leukotape, Compeed), ibuprofen, imodium, antihistamine, personal meds

Electronics

• Phone + power bank (20,000mAh+)
• Camera + spare batteries (keep warm!)
• Universal travel adapter (Type C/D/M)
• E-reader / Kindle (saves weight on books)

What We Provide

• Sleeping bag (-20°C rated) — on request
• Foam sleeping pad
• Down jacket — on request (limited sizes)
• Duffel bag for porter
• Group medical kit, oxygen, satellite phone
• All permits, park fees
• Teahouse accommodation & meals

Leave at Home

• Cotton clothing (jeans, hoodies, t-shirts)
• Excessive toiletries (teahouses have basics)
• Heavy books
• Alcohol (buy in Kathmandu if desired)
• Drone (without prior CAAN permit — 30+ day process)

Pro Tips

1. Pack duffel so porter can access layers without unpacking everything.
2. Wear heaviest items on plane (boots, down jacket).
3. Keep passport, permits, cash, meds in daypack — never in duffel.
4. Test all gear before departure. Break in boots 50+ km.