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Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List

Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most popular treks among adventure seekers. Getting to the foot of the highest mountain in the world is a great feat. But, the mountains are unpredictable places. Majority of the first time travelers are not aware of the type of gears they need during their trek. This complete packing list for Everest Base Camp trek will come handy for the first time travelers.

Another common mistake most trekkers and climbers make during any trip is that they overpack. The sense of being out in the wilderness evokes a feeling of packing everything that seems necessary. But over-packing will make your trip more difficult at the least. To reach the base camp you will need to pack smart and light.

To help you decide what to pack for your Everest Base Camp Trek, we’ve created the ultimate packing checklist. This list is a guideline, and your final list will depend on your preferences and judgment. Although this list is titled for Everest Base Camp trekking equipment, you can use it for any lodge-to-lodge trekking in Nepal or elsewhere. This checklist is also applicable for trips to Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Here are some additional tips for packing for the Everest Base Camp trek:

  • Make sure your gear is in good condition and that you have everything you need for all types of weather conditions.
  • Pack light, but don’t skimp on important items like a good sleeping bag, warm jacket, and hiking boots.
  • Bring a first-aid kit and plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Be sure to acclimatize to the altitude before you start your trek.
  • Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet.
  • Listen to your body and take breaks when you need them.
  • With proper planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable trek to Everest Base Camp.

What can I expect from Himalayan Glacier during the trek?

From the list below, Himalayan Glacier will provide lodges, meals (3 times a day), sleeping bag, duffel bag, and down jacket (for all seasons). Apart from guaranteeing the memories of a lifetime, Himalayan Glacier will provide the items indicated by an asterisk (*) in the checklist which is included in the trip cost. Our porters or yaks are limited to carrying 33 lbs. (15 kg) of your personal belongings which is also the weight restrictions for flights to Lukla. Be selective in what you take.

Packing list for everest base camp

1. Travel Documents for EBC Trek

  • Trip blueprint if you are not carrying iPhone or any smartphone
  • Passport, with at least 6-month validity
  • Passport, 2-3 copies
  • Photos, 4 Passport size
  • Visa, available in Kathmandu Airport
  • Immunization, for your health protection. For detailed information, please contact your physician or visit the CDC website
  • Insurance, documents that cover medical, flight cancellation, trip cancellation, rescue and air ambulance on the trip
  • Cash, in case you need cash (around $200 to $300)

The paperwork might vary during and after the coronavirus pandemic. Visit our blog for Everest Base Camp Trek during the coronavirus for the latest updates. We also regularly update our blog for Corona Virus Travel Updates.

2. Travel Clothing

Headwear

  • Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap for sun protection
    A wide-brimmed hat to cover your ears, neck, and face from the strong rays of the sun. You will need this to keep you from burning and dehydrating, which could potentially ruin your trip.
  • Bandana or headscarf, useful for protection against dust and cold
    Kathmandu is rather dusty. Also, the trails in the mountains are dusty due to dry weather. There will be a huge traffic of trekkers, porters, local people, yaks, and donkeys. So, a bandana will turn out to be very useful.
  • Knit Hat, for warmth
    You will need a warm fleece or woolen hat to keep you warm in the cold temperatures, especially during the freezing nights and cold Himalayan mornings.
  • Buff/Neck Gaiter
    This is an essential piece of gear to keep your neck warm as well as to cover your mouth. It will help in protecting you against the dryness as well.
  • Balaclava or Buff (recommended)
    One of the most important pieces of clothing on Everest and other high and cold mountains is a fleece-lined buff. A buff keeps your neck and back of your head warm. Most importantly, it is used to cover your mouth. At high altitudes, the air is cold and dry. If you can keep moisture in your mouth, you are less likely to be coughing, and damaging your throat and lungs. You are also retaining moisture in your body which helps to keep you better hydrated at higher altitudes.
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
    Essential for mornings/evenings in the lodges as well as while trekking during night.
  • Sunglasses or Goggles
    You will need a dark, wrap-around pair of sunglasses, preferably category 3 or 4 to protect against harsh UV rays and ice-glare at higher altitudes. We recommend you to carry a spare pair as well.

Bodywear – Torso

Bodywear for Everest Base Camp
  • Long Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt, moisture-wicking fabric
    Lightweight and good for hiking at lower elevations. Nylon or synthetic fabrics are the best and you will only need one pair.
  • Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt, moisture-wicking fabric
    We recommend Merino wool or synthetic fabrics (NO COTTON) 2 short sleeve shirts and 2 long sleeve shirts. (Merino is the best)
  • Lightweight thermal tops
    To keep your body warm and protect from the deep cold of the mountain
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Soft Jacket, fleece, or soft-shell
  • 1 – Down jacket (Puffer Jacket)*
    Having a down jacket with you at all times is vital. We use a down jacket on all our adventures. There are differently graded down jackets but any 100% ethically sourced goose down jacket is a vital piece of kit for any adventure. Depending on the trip you will need a quality down jacket, with more or less down. The 600 fill or 800 fill down is the required quality of the down.

    You can always ask us for advice on getting the correct down jacket for your adventures. We can help you pick the right jacket for you. During your trek to the Everest Base Camp, you will wear this during the nights and mornings. You will want to have a high quality 700 or 800 fill goose down jacket. This is an essential piece of your kit to keep you warm in freezing temperatures.
  • Waterproof jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
    You need a Gore-Tex or similar waterproofing material as an outerwear jacket. This should be lightweight and the hood will help protect you from rain/snow as well as help block the wind.
  • Insulated Jacket, synthetic or down, warm
  • Sports Bra (women)
Everest Trekking Group

Handwear

  • Gloves, warm (waterproof recommended)
    At high altitude and in cold weather conditions, Keeping your hands warm is also vital in making sure you have a comfortable adventure and also to prevent frostbites. You will need one pair of warm, waterproof outer gloves plus one pair of smaller liner gloves.
  • Gloves, light (wool or fleece recommended)
    The outer gloves need to be a warm glove, similar to what you would wear to ski in. These are essential to keep you warm in the freezing temperatures. You will also want a thin liner glove for the less frigid temperatures or to wear inside your thick outer gloves for extreme temps. Also, having liner gloves helps when taking your hands out of the gloves to take pictures and keep your hands warm at all time

Bodywear – beneath the torso

  • Waterproof Hiking Pants, breathable (side zipper recommended)
    We recommend bringing one or two pairs of trekking pants that are quick-drying and made of synthetic material. The type that can be zipped off into shorts can be helpful. You will need to have one pair of waterproof pants that can be worn over your trekking pants in case of rain/heavy snow. These can be Gore-Tex or similar waterproofing materials.
  • Hiking shorts, advised for use on sunny days
  • Fleece Pant
    Every day when you arrive at your lodging, you will want to change into a fresh pair of clothing. We recommend a pair of warm fleece pants or tracksuit pants. You will only need one pair.
  • Light thermal trouser, moisture-wicking fabric
    We recommend the use of Merino wool base layers. The same pair can be used for 30 different expeditions. A mix of short sleeve and long sleeve Icebreaker 200/260 grade will prove grade. They can be used for sleeping in, night climbing, and the first layer in keeping your body warm and keeping cold conditions at high altitudes at bay.
  • Fleece or woolen pants
    Base Layers: We recommend Merino Wool base layers, however, a synthetic material will work as well. You will want one pair of warm bottoms to wear under your trekking pants on the final days of the trek. We would also recommend one or two more long-sleeve Merino/synthetic tops. These will have ‘wicking’ properties to keep you warm when you are cold and cool when you are warm.
  • Underwear, moisture-wicking fabric

Footwear

  • Hiking boots, spare laces, warm, waterproof, ankle support
    Having a comfortable, warm, waterproof, and broken-in pair of trekking boots is important on any adventure. You will walk from 4 to 16 days or even more. Your trekking boots need to be waterproof with quality leather, or other waterproof materials. You will need a hiking boot that fits perfectly and with good ankle support. The more rigid the sole the better.

    Make sure the boot has deep cut traction on the sole which will prevent you from slipping. We have used different brands of trekking boots such as Scarpa, Merrell, Berghaus, and Mammut. We can help you pick the right boots for you.

You will want to purchase these early and break them in. Never go on the trip with a new and never-worn pair of boots.

  • Shoes, trainers or running
    You will want to take your boots off when you arrive at the lodge each night. We recommend a light trail running shoe or trainer (Salomon Brand is ideal).
  • Socks, thin & light
  • Socks, synthetic or wool
    We recommend either Merino Wool or a synthetic material (never cotton) as they will help to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Usually, you will need 3 or 4 pairs of thin liner socks and 2 or 3 pairs of thick socks.
  • Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters, waterproof, “low” ankle high version
    These are optional and only required during winter and rainy seasons. These can stop scree/mud/snow from getting into your boots.

3. Trekking Equipment

Himalayan Glacier Duffel Bag (21-23 Gallon)
Himalayan Glacier Duffel Bag (21-23 Gallon)
  • Duffel Bag, 90L, for porters or yaks to carry your stuff*
    We recommend a duffel bag around 90/100 liters (20-22 gallons) in size. This will be carried by the porters/yaks.

Himalayan Glacier will provide you a standard water-proof duffel bag during your trip, which remains yours even after you return from the trek.

  • Sleeping Bag, warm, four seasons*
    You will be sleeping on a bed in the lodges. Himalayan Glacier will provide you with a sleeping bag, however, we recommend you bringing your own, if you can. We recommend that it is rated to -15°C (5°F). You can also bring a liner sheet for your sleeping bag based on your preferences and tolerance towards cold.
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • Trekking Poles, collapsible (highly recommended)
    Adjustable poles are always ideal.
  • Daypack, 30L-35L, for your carry
    Approximately a 35-liter (8-gallon) pack, for you to carry each day with your daily items/personal documents/camera/money. This MUST have a hip belt for support/weight loading and should have an inner frame for comfort on your back.
  • Thermosets
    This self-inflating mattress is not needed unless you intend to sleep in camps. However, if you feel that you cannot sleep without it, you can include a set.

4. Accessories

  • Day Backpack Cover, for protection, waterproof (optional)
    In the case of heavy rains, this cover can go on your backpack to keep the contents of your pack dry. If you are carrying your camera/important documents in your pack, you may want to bring this.
  • Garbage Bag
    You can wrap all your clothes/items inside your kitbag to protect it against rain.
  • Water Bottle (Nalgene, 32 oz.)
    We recommend having two Nalgene or similar bottles. These are thick plastic bottles that you can fill with boiling water at night, which can also be used as hot water bottles, and then drink the water when you wake in the morning. You will not be able to do this with metal bottles.
  • Water Bladder (Camelbak type, 3 liters)
    This hands-free hydration system is essential to keep you drinking plenty of water on the trail. We recommend a 2 or 3-liter bladder that you can fill each morning before hitting the trail so that you can easily sip water all day without having to stop walking.
  • Stuff Sacks, Dry Bags, or Ziploc -Type Plastic Bags
    To keep gear dry and separate
  • Book/Diary
    You may want to have a book or diary or cards to use in the lodges at night when you have down-time.

how are trekkers dressed for Everest base camp trek

5. Medicine

  • Antibiotics, two courses as prescribed by your GP. One for chest and upper respiratory tract infections and one for abdominal, bowel infections. Please don’t bring sleeping pills as they are respiratory depressants.
  • Painkillers, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Advil
  • Cough Lozenges
  • 1 – Triangular Bandage
  • Foot Powder. Important for keeping your feet in good condition
  • Anti-inflammatory Tablets. For any inflammation
  • Skin-blister repair kit
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Altitude sickness Tablets: Diamox or Acetazolamide to prevent AMS
  • Water purification tablets or water filters – Purification tablets to purify the water along the trails. These can be purchased in Kathmandu. We do not recommend buying water on the trail as there are no facilities to recycle the plastic bottles in the mountains.
  • Earplugs
  • Prescriptions, in case you need to purchase your medications.
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Sunscreen– We recommend having a Factor 50 + to protect you from the extreme rays at altitude.
  • Lip Balm – This is essential to protect you against the fierce sun.
  • Insect Repellent, containing DEET
  • Hand Sanitizer – This is essential to keep your hands clean on the trail.
  • Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes (recommended) – While there are options to shower along the trail, we recommend always bringing a pack of Baby Wipes to keep yourself clean in the wilderness.
  • Snacks, lightweight, high calorie (optional) – Bring a few of your favorites: chocolates, nuts, sweets, etc. You can buy some of these items on the trail as well.
  • Electrolytes, powder, or tablets (optional) – You can bring vitamin C or multivitamin tablets/powders to add to your water. Electrolytes can prove vital to prevent dehydration.

Our Trek Leader will be carrying a group medical kit that will contain more of the above plus extensive supplies for a wide range of medical problems and emergencies. But we recommend you bring along the items mentioned above and keep your medical kit with you daily on the trail.

6. Toiletries

Everything you need daily (contact lenses, glasses, toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine products, etc.).

Small Personal First Aid Kit: This is just a guide of what we recommend you to bring, you may have other personal items you need to add to your kit:

  • Medium-sized quick-drying towel– A small sports towel that is quick-drying is recommended.
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably bio-degradable)
  • Multi-purpose soap (preferably bio-degradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers (optional)
  • Toilet Paper – This is for when you are on the trail and have to go to the bathroom. You will either carefully burn the toilet paper or take a small plastic bag to dispose of toilet paper when you arrive at the lodge.
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene items
  • Small mirror (optional)

This Everest Base Camp Trekking Packing list will help you pack for your trips to the Himalayas. With the help of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for when renting or buying trekking gear in Kathmandu. In case of any queries and confusions, you can always contact us.

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