I have discovered that the prospect of packing for a trek makes trekkers anxious – they don't know what to buy, where to shop, whether to rent or how much to spend. Learn what to bring for a high-altitude trek by reading our professional guide.
I've noticed that without a professional guide, trekkers wind up splurging and overbuying, which is the exact opposite of what you should do on a basic trek.
Note:
already taken care of. If you're going camping alone, you'll need to add food, camping gear including tents and sleeping bags, and cooking equipment to the list below. I'll go over a list of personal and crucial items you'll need to pack on your journey. The number of articles mentioned may vary depending on the number of days, and please note that this list is based on a 5- to 7-day walk.
List of Important Things to Carry on Trekking Trip
-
Rucksack/Backpack: Between 40 to 50 Liters. Don’t buy more than 60 lt unless you are going on an expedition. -
Rucksack cover (Waterproof): It will protect your backpack/rucksack from rain, dust, and stain during unpredictable weather conditions. -
Daypack/Knapsack: This one is optional as it’ll help you on routes where you need not carry your whole rucksack and bring only water bottles and fewer items. -
Waterproof Trekking Shoes/Boots: You are as good as your hiking shoes on a mountain. Note that your shoes must have a sticky rubber sole as well as good ankle support. -
T-shirt (Base layer): These are great in moisture- wicking and dry off quickly. It is made of synthetic materials which ventilate sweat/moisture. Cotton t-shirts are not recommended and avoid wearing them while hiking. -
Warm Jacket or fleece: Down feather jackets are advised. Although, you will not require this unless you are hiking in cold conditions. Use this when you are at your campsite and not while hiking. -
Waterproof Jacket/Windcheater: Helps in protection from wind and rain/snow fall. Use this as an outer layer of clothing, along with the Base Layer (t-shirt) while hiking. -
Thermal wear: Change your base layer and put on these once you reach the campsite. Must for winter treks. -
Hiking/Trekking Pants: Use windproof and waterproof trek pants while on a high-altitude trek. Avoid wearing cotton and opt for dry-fit/quick dry hiking pants. -
Raincoat/Poncho: Waterproofing is a must during your trek in the Himalayas, ALWAYS. These will come in handy if you don’t have a waterproof jacket and trek-pants. -
Balaclava/Monkey Cap: A Must item for protection from cold. Ensure that it is made of woolen/synthetic warm material.
-
Sun cap/Bandana: For protection from the sun while you hike. -
Innerwear/undergarments, Hiking socks, and woolen gloves (waterproof for winter treks). -
Walking Sticks/Trekking Poles: Supports you by reducing the pressure on the knees and gives balance, especially while descending. -
Sunglasses: This is a must-bring for all the high-altitude treks and winter treks. Polarized/Anti-glare is always a better option in the snow with UV protection. -
Water bottle/Hydration pack and Torch/Head Lamp with extra batteries. -
Accessories/Toiletries: Can be shared when you travel in a group. -
Camera with extra cells: Optional. Remember to carry spare batteries/power banks. -
Dry food items: Carry some dry fruits, chocolate /energy/protein bars, and Glucon-D/Tang/Electrols. -
Sunscreen (SPF 40+)/Moisturizing cream, Toothbrush/toothpaste and Soap/Soap strip, Hand Sanitizer and Tissue roll ( Toilet paper), Towel (Medium size). -
Medical/First-Aid Kit: It should contain Antiseptic cream, Betadine/Dettol/Savlon, Band-aid, cotton, crepe bandage, safety pin, etc. Remember to include some medicines for headache, fever, vomiting, stomach upset, and pain killer (Volini gel/spray). Also, bring some Diamox tablets as it helps in better acclimation but drink a lot of water as this is a diuretic drug.