Nepal Trekking Gear Checklist

Trekking is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the amazing mountain atmosphere. It is the perfect adventure to discover the mountains, valleys, lakes, wildlife and mountain settlements. Apart from that, it also provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the culture and traditions of local people.

Hiking and Trekking in Nepal have been popular since the 19th century. These activities get more popular as the counterculture movements began in the west and people started to travel for leisure and adventure purposes. 

Nepal is a mind-blowing destination for adventure activities, trekking being one. There are a lot of trekking destinations that offer memorable and life lasting experiences in the mountains of Nepal. For trekking, you need to have certain gears and trekking equipment that can help you brave the mountain adventure. There are a lot of things to do in Nepal, and trekking is one of the most popular activities. 

The trekking gears can help you alleviate the pain while providing you with the immense adventure that you seek, the wonderful journey that you complete and brave the wonderful competition within you.

If you are planning to visit Nepal for trekking activities, you need to be prepared whether you are trekking independently or want your trip to be organized by some travel company.

If you are trekking independently, you need to be prepared for a lot of things, including the paperwork, permits and essential services. But if you choose a trekking company, you will be facilitated with the information you need and they will help you plan the entire trip in an organized way. 

The selection of trekking areas can be very extensive as it is a special journey you are going to undertake in the mountains. Trekking has so much potential to bring about changes in your life in a very positive way.

The mountainous atmosphere is very spiritual and pleasant and it will change the way you look at life, it changes your perspectives. You can check magazines, travelogues, and even ask us by enquiring about the trip and we can help you identify the perfect trip. 

Another major factor that you need to take into account is whether you are planning the trip solo or want some travel partners and friends along. If you have friends accompanying you during the trek, that’s perfect. If you want to trek solo, it’s great to seek adventure alone. But if you are solo and want some trek partners, you can join our fixed departure trips. 

Now, finally after sorting all things out, you need to gear up for the adventure. Depending on the trekking area you are visiting, you need various types of trekking gear to trek in Nepal. For that, we’ve prepared this Nepal trekking gear checklist for you. If you want any suggestions and even want your trip to be planned, you can contact us.

Nepal Trekking gear checklist involves many types of equipment and gears depending upon the trekking area you have planned for, duration of the trek, the time you visit, your fitness level and elevation of the trail. So, the backpacking for trekking in Nepal heavily depends on various factors including the difficulty level of the trek and the season you want to visit.

In the trekking and mountain climbing activities, the essential items are integrated as the Ten Essentials. These gears and equipment help you complete the trek in a convenient way. Having essential gear makes the trip not only convenient but can also be life-saving - at times. 

The Ten essential items for trekking and mountain-related activities identified by the publication Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills are enlisted here. 

Navigation

Navigation equipment helps you identify the trail and provide you with information about the trekking destination, elevation and other relevant ideas for high altitude trekking in Nepal.

Some of the navigation equipment that you might need while trekking in the mountains of Nepal is a map, compass, altimeter, and GPS device. However, if you are trekking with a guide, he will have the knowledge about the trekking area you are braving into and help you with the relevant information himself.

So, navigating the trail is very important. It is also time-saving if you are trekking alone or trekking for the first time. The devices can help you locate the destination of the day and help you plan the further trek. 

Headlamp

A headlamp is also a major essential item. It will help you, especially in the nighttime. There are a lot of rural places in the remote mountain areas and off the beaten path trekking destinations, where the electricity facilities are not sufficient.

Some region caters the system with solar lights, but that might not be efficient. So, having a headlamp with an LED bulb and spare batteries is very important. 

Sun Protection

In the mountains, protecting the skin from sunburn is very important. For that, you need your skin favourable sunscreen cream, sunglasses, sun-protective clothing and other sun rays sunblock items. 

First Aid

While trekking in the mountains, having a first aid kit box can be life-saving in case of emergency. For that, you can carry a first aid kit wrapped in waterproof packaging to avoid damage from water.

You can include insect repellent cream, Antiseptic cream, Diamox (for altitude sickness), Rehydration salts, Multivitamin tablets, Analgesics such as Flexon, Aspirin, or Advil, Moleskin to protect from blisters, Antibiotics (Ask your doctor), Anti-diarrhoeal medicine, Imodium (loperamide), Sprint bandage, Iodine based water purification tablets and other regular medicines (if you have any). 

Having proper first aid help you mitigate the rush just in case you need it. So, always carry a first aid kit. You never know when it might come in handy. 

Knife

Trekking in the mountains can be arduous sometimes because of bushes and other small floras. So, carrying a small knife can be helpful while trekking in the mountains of Nepal.

You can also use it to cut fruits and to open the boxes. It can be used as a multi-tool. So, carry a small knife for safety and other general purposes. You also need a knife to prepare woods for campfire and camping activities. 

Fire

If you need to camp while trekking in the mountains, you need to have fore igniting devices. A butane lighter or matches and firestarters can be a great help to lit fire in the mountains.

But always be cautious of the fire, a little carelessness can scrap the whole forest. In the areas where the wood is hard to find and especially in the winter and summer season, carrying a stove is advisable as the woods might be wet. 

Shelter

The shelter is another essential element that you need while trekking in the remote mountains of Nepal. In off the beaten path trek, there are fewer accommodation facilities and in high elevations, in some places, you might have to earth the camp.

So, having good camping gear is very important. A tent, plastic trash bag and other essential items can help you with accommodation in high elevations. 

Extra food

Having extra food in the backpack is important to keep yourself from draining your energy while trekking in the mountains. Some healthy chips, dry food, carbohydrate-rich foods and energizers such as chocolates and energy bars are important. It is recommended that you put at least a day’s food in your backpack that does not require cooking. 

Also, If you are trekking in the mountains, you need to be aware of safe food. Eating unhygienic food can deteriorate your health condition, so, always eat at the places recommended by your guide or check reviews on the internet in popular places. 

Water

Carrying sufficient water while trekking is very helpful. While trekking, you dehydrate a lot and it’s important to keep yourself hydrated to save yourself from draining energy.

But don’t use water at random places in the mountains. The impure water can be fatal. So, always carry water purifying tablets or tools or just boil the water and use it. 

Extra clothes

Trekking in Nepal is a seasonal activity. The mountain areas are comparatively colder than the lowlands. So, carrying enough clothes and having good gear is important. If you need to stay extra days in the mountains, you need to have clothes along. So, it’s good to carry one or two pairs of extra clothes than the usual ones.

In the popular trekking routes of Nepal, there are teahouses and lodges, however, in the rural regions, trekkers should be self-sustained. So, for the Nepal trekking gear checklist for hiking activities in the classic and popular trail of Nepal, also the off the beaten path treks, the following items are recommended. Some of the items mentioned in this article for the Nepal trekking gear checklist can be rented or purchased in Nepal.

Travel bags

It’s really important to have a good travel bag, cause it holds all for your trek. If you are going to carry your own gear, a large comfortable backpack is what you must carry. Check the adjustable shoulder straps and waist straps. A 45-65L backpack would be suitable for the whole trip. Make sure the bag is comfortable to walk with.

If you want the porters to assist you, you need to have the

1. Backpack or Duffel Bag: The bags should be waterproof and have a rain cover. The bags can be around 80L.

2. Daypack: A structured daypack with all your essentials, and get something really comfortable bag of about 30L. You need to carry everything which you could need during the day.

Here are some trekking gear essentials that must be in your backpacks:

1. Clothing: Clothes must be carried according to the weather and elevation above sea level.

2. Foot Wear: Shoes must be in the right condition and must not be too tight or loose. It is better to try your shoes with a thick pair of socks before packing or buying them.

3. Accessories: These are the basic essentials to be carried which include sunscreens, water bottles, lamps, first aids, towels, and toiletries, etc.

4. Luxuries: Some other luxuries stuff could be brought to spice up your trek and have extra fun which can be added if you find extra space in the backpack.

The weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, you will encounter a variety of temperatures. So, pack your bags wisely. Alternate your outfits, for trekking, for sleeping, and some extra layers.

One Waterproof Jacket

A good waterproof jacket is your best companion when the weather goes bad. The jacket protects you from wind, rain, and snow, also you can layer anything underneath.

One Fleece Jacket or pullover

Early in the morning, you could surely face a freezing temperature. So, warm up with your fleece jacket or pullover underneath the waterproof jacket.

T-Shirts

Synthetic T-shirts are the most comfortable one during the whole trek as it is a perfect sweat absorber. You could carry extra pairs of t-shirts (2-4) as they are super light and keep you tidy.

Thermal Coats

Thermal coats are the base layer, both shirt and pants give your skin a perfect warmth and could be useful during the days, as well as on a freezing night and the best part is they are lightweight. The thermal sets could be a bonus if you can’t resist a cold below your waist.

Down Jacket

Down Jackets keeps you warm at higher altitudes and protects you from the fierce wind too. It is super light and can be carried inside a small pouch which is the icing on a cake while trekking a long distance.

Trekking Pants

Trekking pants are usually super light, comfortable, and they protect from water and wind. These types of pants are made up of quick-dry materials and are breathable. If you are planning for a long trek, an extra pair must be carried along.

Shorts

Shorts could be a great option at lower altitudes. In the middle hour of the day, you might want to lose your baggy pants for some instances and help your legs breathe, as saviour shorts would be the best match.

Inner Wears

You will always have room for extra innerwear when on a trail, you can carry around half a dozen of it and might need all of them and also could wash them if you wish. Fresh inner-wear every day provides you with a fresh feeling for the entire day.  For ladies, it is best if you carry a couple of sports bras made of synthetic materials.

Gloves

Hands are as important as feet, carry woollen gloves, or light fleece gloves according to the temperature. A good pair of gloves protect you during the morning and evening chilling cold.

If you are trekking on higher altitudes or through the snow-capped region then you must carry thick and waterproof gloves.

Head-wears

Head-wears are an important asset, they not only protect you from shivering cold but also from the scorching heat. Woollen hats could be used during extremely cold situations and sunhats could be used during the trekking hours.  Neck gaiter and balaclava could also be used during the trek, they protect your neck from the cold wind of the Himalayas.

Here is the list of footwear that you may need for trekking in the rugged and rural mountains of Nepal.

Trekking boots

Invest in good quality trekking boots. Check the sole, support, and comfort of the shoes. Shoes with high cut off for ankle support are the highly recommended ones as you’ll be hiking on these for hours. Sizing up is really necessary, your toes should not touch the tip of the shoes as it might be difficult for the downhill.

Sandals or shoes

Around the teahouses, and for a certain hike you surely don't want to wear heavy boots. Choose the sandals model which you can wear with socks.  Give your feet a rest, and wander around the place with your cozy sandals or the trail running shoes.

Socks

Always carry good quality socks, warm socks, it keeps your feet dry and comfortable. Carrying an extra pair of socks will be much obliged and you can apply a fresh pair every day.

Alternatives

The alternative options for your footwear, 

Crampons

For improved mobility on snow, these traction devices are needed to be attached to your footwear.  If you want extra grip during the glacier regions trek, then crampons are perfect for your sole and mobility.

Microspikes

If you are trekking during the midst of winter or during the end, micro-spikes could be a friend in need. The spikes provide a good grip at slippery points and fit perfectly to your lightweight boot.

Here is the list of accessories that you may need in your backpack while trekking in Nepal:

Towels

The chances you shower during the trek are always minimum but apart from that, you need a good towel for drying your face, hands, and feet. Small microfiber towels could be the best option, it is super light and consumes little space.

Water Bottles

Bring reusable water bottles whose volume is around 500-1000 ml. You can refill the water bottles at tea houses which cost around $3 or fill from the fresh streams. In some tea houses bottled water will be available but minimizing the use of plastic in the Himalayas would be better.

Water Purifiers

You could use water purifier tablets for purifying stream, tap, or river waters. The freshwater from the melting Himalayas is a dream taste for every trekker.  You can instantly kill many harmful bacteria using a few drops or tablets.

Sunscreen

The sun rays on higher altitudes are extremely strong and the chances of getting sunburn are also extreme. The higher altitude sunburns are different from the ones from low lands. Your skin might feel itchy and turn red. Sunscreen is important for everyone and any skin type of person.

Hiking Sticks

Hiking sticks are perfect assets for those who feel joint pain. The hiking sticks are towers of strength and provide companions like your old friend. Usually, a pair of hiking sticks would be perfect as it supports ascending and descending hills.

Sleeping Bag

A sleeping bag is important but could be optional. This is for the one who can’t resist cold temperatures and need a little comfort from the day’s exhaustion. If you are travelling during the high season then it is a must carry essential as hotels might run out of blankets during high season.

Head Lamp

These are really important things to have, it could be useful for the early mornings while chasing the sunlight and if you are late at your destiny, walking around during night capturing night skies and mountains, while going to the toilet at night, climbing the stairs, reading books during leisure night hours, or going through your backpacks at night.

Moisturizer and Lip Balms

As you take the elevation, the air gets thinner and the environment gets dry. This could easily make your skin and lips dry. You could carry a small Vaseline which is good at moisturizing.

Sunglasses

A standard UV protection sunglasses is a must to carry for the trek. Trekking up in the mountain region can cause eye strain or snow blindness at worst case due to the white snow and overexposed sun’s UV rays, so your eyes are well protected using standard UV protection glasses. And the world sometimes looks magical through sunglasses.

First Aid and Medications

You must carry medications and first aid along with you. Diamox and Paracetamol could help you to cope with altitude sickness and fever respectively. You could also carry a pair of Electrobions, muscle relaxer gels, pair of band-aids, and knee guards for extra insurance.

Toiletries

Always remember to carry your toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, baby wipes, and other essential things for your personal hygiene. For ladies, they must bring sanitary pads, menstrual cups, and other hygienic things along with them. These things are not available anywhere once you start your trek or leave cities.

Raincoat

These are important only during monsoon, waterproof jackets might leak from the shoulder during the extreme rain. If you are trekking on other seasons you might not want to add it to your bag.

Power Banks

A pair of fully charged power banks are always fruitful to carry, the availability of electricity at higher altitude is always a fat chance. If you are a photographer or have carried a camera along, spare batteries are must-have electronic essentials.

Light Snacks

You could carry some chocolate bars and light snacks if you wish. In the middle of the journey you might want to rest watching the river flow, melting mountains,  and hovering clouds, these light snacks spice up the moment and give you the strength to walk an extra mile, and saves your snack time at a tea house.

Further lists of trekking gear essentials for you which may give you additional help while you are heading for a trekking trip in Nepal. These things are considered as the luxury or extra essentials:

• Bluetooth speaker

• Binoculars

• Books

• Butane gas and a small stove(if you are on the camp trek)

• Diary and pen

• Playing cards (to help you pass the time at teahouses and/or camps)

• Swimsuit(If there is any hot water stream in the trail)

• Swiss Army Knife

• Trail map/guide book

“Don’t Overpack, carry the right bag, wear the right clothes, get the perfect shoes, and the essential gears.”

Renting backpacking gear and trekking equipment can be a money-saving and time-efficient way for trekking in Nepal. There are some shops around the Thamel area that offers to rent facilities. You can even buy second-hand gears that can be helpful for you. If you are planning to prepare the Nepal trekking gear checklist, you may opt for rental and second-hand buy services.

There is a famous saying by Antoine De Saint-Exupéry, “He who would travel happily must travel light.”  So choose wisely and enjoy to the fullest.