How to Choose and Pack the Best Trekking Gear for Nepal

Choosing the right trekking gear is crucial for a safe, comfortable, and successful trek in Nepal. With many high-altitude trekking routes, having the proper equipment is essential to handle the challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and varying temperatures.

Nepal is one of the world’s top trekking and climbing destinations, and Kathmandu is the best place to buy or rent high-quality trekking gear. You’ll find a wide range of options, from affordable local brands to top international brands, ensuring you get everything you need for your adventure.

If you are a frequent hiker or trekker, investing in high-quality, durable trekking gear is a smart choice. Reliable gear ensures comfort, performance, and longevity, making it worth the investment. However, if you are an occasional trekker, renting certain items—such as a sleeping bag and down jacket—is a cost-effective option. Other essential items, like hiking boots and personal clothing, should be purchased, as they need to fit well and cannot be rented.

As a responsible Sherpa trekking company, we guide our trekkers in selecting the best trekking gear suited for various trekking routes in Nepal. Once you book a trek with us, we will send you a detailed packing list tailored to your specific trek, as different treks require different gear.

On this page, we provide you with a list of essential trekking gear to help you pack wisely for your Nepal trek. Whether you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna, Langtang, or Manaslu, having the right gear will enhance your experience and ensure your safety.

YOU MUST BRING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

1. Essential Trekking Clothing

✅ Base Layers (Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms)
✅ Insulation Layer (Fleece jacket or down jacket for warmth)
✅ Outer Shell Layer (Waterproof, windproof, and breathable jacket & pants – Gore-Tex recommended)
✅ Trekking Pants (Lightweight, quick-drying)
✅ Trekking Shirts (Moisture-wicking, long-sleeve for sun protection)
✅ Fleece or Softshell Jacket (For added warmth)
✅ Down Jacket (Mandatory for high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or Manaslu)
✅ Waterproof Gloves (A pair of warm, insulated gloves)
✅ Lightweight Gloves (For cool mornings & evenings)
✅ Sun Hat or Cap (For UV protection)
✅ Warm Hat or Beanie (Essential for cold nights)
✅ Neck Gaiter or Buff (Protects against dust, wind, and cold)

2. Trekking Footwear
✅ Hiking Boots (Waterproof, well-broken-in, high-ankle support)
✅ Trekking Socks (Merino wool or synthetic, at least 3–4 pairs)
✅ Camp Shoes/Sandals (For relaxing in teahouses or camp)
✅ Gaiters (Useful for snowy or muddy trails)

3. Sleeping Gear
✅ Sleeping Bag (-10°C to -20°C rating for high-altitude treks)
✅ Sleeping Bag Liner (For extra warmth and hygiene)
✅ Inflatable Pillow (Optional but helpful)

4. Backpacks & Bags
✅ Daypack (20–30L) (For carrying essentials during the trek)
✅ Duffel Bag (70–90L) (Porters will carry this; provided by many trekking companies)
✅ Rain Cover (For backpack & duffel bag)

5. Trekking Accessories

✅ Trekking Poles (Highly recommended for balance & reducing knee strain)
✅ Headlamp (with Extra Batteries) (Essential for early morning or late-night trekking)
✅ Sunglasses (UV Protection) (For sun and snow glare protection)
✅ Water Bottles (1–2L) (Reusable to reduce plastic waste)
✅ Water Purification Tablets/Filter (Avoid plastic bottles on the trail)
✅ Lightweight Towel (Quick-drying microfiber recommended)

6. Personal Care & Hygiene

✅ Sunscreen (SPF 40+) (Essential for high-altitude sun protection)
✅ Lip Balm (SPF Protection) (Prevents cracked lips)
✅ Toothbrush & Toothpaste
✅ Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer
✅ Toilet Paper (Biodegradable) (Not provided in teahouses)
✅ Deodorant & Soap (Biodegradable)
✅ Small First Aid Kit (See below)

7. First Aid & Medications

✅ Personal Medications (As prescribed by your doctor)
✅ Altitude Sickness Medication (Diamox if needed)
✅ Painkillers (Ibuprofen/Paracetamol)
✅ Bandages & Blister Plasters (Compeed or Moleskin)
✅ Antiseptic Cream & Antibiotics (For infections)
✅ Electrolyte Powders (ORS) (Prevents dehydration)

8. Snacks & Energy Supplements
✅ Energy Bars or Trail Mix (For quick energy boosts)
✅ Electrolyte Powder/Tablets (To stay hydrated)
✅ Instant Coffee/Tea Bags (Optional, for personal preference)

9. Electronics & Miscellaneous
✅ Power Bank (10,000–20,000 mAh) (Electricity is limited in remote areas)
✅ Charging Cables & Adapter (Type D/M)
✅ Camera (Optional, but great for capturing the trek!)
✅ Notebook & Pen (For journaling or notes)
✅ Playing Cards/Kindle (For entertainment in the evenings)

Additional Tips for Trekking in Nepal

• Pack Light – Keep your duffel under 15 kg; excess weight can be difficult for porters.
• Layering is Key – The temperature varies significantly from daytime to nighttime.
• Break in Your Boots – Avoid blisters by trekking with well-worn boots before your trip.
• Stay Hydrated – Drink 3–4 liters daily and use water purification methods.
• Renting Gear in Nepal – If you don’t want to bring everything, you can buy or rent most gear in Thamel, Kathmandu, at reasonable prices.

Nepal offers a variety of reputable outdoor gear companies catering to trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts. Here are some top options:

Sherpa Adventure Gear
Kathmandu, Nepal
A renowned brand offering high-quality outdoor clothing and equipment, blending modern technology with traditional Nepalese designs. 

Other necessary important items:

• Passport and extra passport size photos (2-4 copies)
• Visa (these are easy to attain when you land in Kathmandu—bring $30 (15 Days) or $50 (30 Days) USD for Visa Application
• Money ($200-300 cash is suggested—while there are occasional ATMs on the trail, they are almost always out of order)

Travel insurance- most recommended

• Airline tickets (Please make a copy and leave one at our office in KTM just in case if you need to change the date of yours)
• Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
• Water bottles 1 Liter x 2 (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single-use plastic)
• Water purification Iodine tablets
• Toilet paper (you can buy this in the lodges
• Travel towel
• Small padlock (to lock your kit bag)
• Antibacterial handwash

THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE OPTIONAL:

1. Trekking poles – if you don't have poles, We can provide complimentary use during trekking.
2. Sleeping bag liner
3. Pillowcase, Scarf, or buff
4. Swimwear (for the hotel pool in Kathmandu)
5. Earplugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring)
6. Travel clothes
7. Camera
8. Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
9. Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)
10. Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Note: The Nepalese are still traditional and conservative in the way they dress. Hence to avoid discomfiture on both sides we advise that you respect this and do not wear revealing clothing or sleeveless tops while visiting Nepal. Shorts are acceptable, but they should reach just above the knee and be modest and for women, it is better to wear trousers or a long skirt.

Additional info: As you packing for most famous trek like Everest Base Camp, manaslu circuit trek or Annapurna sanctuary trek remember that your gear will be separated into two packs: your daypack that you will carry each day as you trek, and your duffle bag which will be carried between tea houses by porters. All extra baggage (non- trekking items) can be stored at the hotel before you start your trek. We provide you with a free duffel bag in Kathmandu. You can use it to pack your essential trekking equipment. We provide one-porter services for two people. Porters will carry up to 25 kg - 30 Kg or 55-66 pounds of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and down jackets. Therefore your duffel bag should not weigh more than 12 kg-15 kg or 26 pounds to 33 pounds.

INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS: Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always recommend the smaller, the better. Around the 25l to 30l size is good for the Everest Base Camp trek. You need to carry your own backpack (with waterproof cover) where you can carry your daily needed items in your own backpack. For instance: Water bottle, Extra money for drinks, souvenirs & tips, sunhat, camera, important documents, toiletries, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, rain gear, music (iPhone), etc.

If you don’t have your own down jacket & sleeping bag, don’t worry. We will provide you 4 season sleeping bags and a good down jacket with a hood for complementary use. Good quality sleeping bag and down jacket are most important for high altitude trek