Packing the right gear makes your trek in Nepal safer, more comfortable, and much more enjoyable. You do not need to bring everything from home. Most essential items can be rented or bought in Kathmandu or Pokhara, especially heavy gear like sleeping bags and down jackets.

Here is a clear checklist to help you prepare.

Clothing

Layering is the most important part of staying comfortable in the mountains. Bring clothing you can add or remove easily depending on the temperature.

• Base layers such as thermal tops and bottoms to keep you warm

• Insulating layers like fleece jackets or a good down jacket for cold mornings and evenings

• A waterproof and windproof outer shell for protection from rain and wind

• Lightweight trekking pants and shirts that dry quickly and breathe well

• A warm hat, gloves, and a buff or neck gaiter for higher altitude sections

Footwear

Your footwear is one of the most important parts of your trek.

• Sturdy trekking boots that are well broken in and preferably waterproof

• Comfortable camp shoes or sandals to wear in the evenings

• Several pairs of trekking socks, including a few warm wool socks for colder days

Backpack and Sleeping Gear

• A daypack of around thirty to forty litres for carrying your daily essentials

• A duffle bag if you are using a porter for your main luggage

• A sleeping bag rated at least minus ten degrees Celsius for high altitude treks

(You can rent good quality sleeping bags in Kathmandu)

Trekking Gear

• Trekking poles, which are very helpful for balance and reducing strain

• A headlamp with extra batteries for early mornings or late evenings

• Water bottles or a hydration system, along with purification tablets or a small filter

• Sunglasses with strong UV protection

Personal Essentials

• A basic first aid kit and any personal medication

• Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF

• Toiletries such as a toothbrush, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and a quick dry towel

• A power bank for charging your devices on the trail

Documents and Money

• Your valid passport and Nepal visa

• Trekking permits such as TIMS and national park or conservation area fees

• Your travel insurance certificate with coverage for high altitude trekking and evacuation

• Cash in Nepalese Rupees for daily expenses, meals, and small purchases on the trail

What You Can Rent or Buy in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is one of the easiest places in the world to find trekking gear. Thamel has many shops that rent or sell equipment at reasonable prices. This is helpful if you do not want to carry heavy items from home or if you are trekking for the first time.

"Thamel Street, the go to spot for trekking gear."

Here are items you can easily rent or buy:

• Sleeping bags suitable for high altitude

• Down jackets

• Trekking poles

• Duffle bags for porter use

• Microspikes for winter or early spring

• Warm gloves, hats, buffs and fleece layers

• Rain ponchos and lightweight shells

Branded gear is also available, but it is more expensive. Most trekkers prefer renting the heavier items and buying smaller essentials in Kathmandu.

Common Packing Mistakes to Avoid

Packing for a trek in Nepal does not need to be complicated. Avoiding a few common mistakes can make your journey much smoother.

Bringing new boots without breaking them in

This is one of the biggest causes of blisters. Wear your boots for a few days or weeks before the trek.

Packing too many clothes

Laundry is available on many routes and clothes dry quickly in good weather. Carrying too much weight makes the trek harder.

Not preparing for cold mornings and evenings

Even in warm seasons, higher altitudes can be very cold. A warm layer is always useful.

Skipping rain protection

Weather in the mountains can change quickly. A simple waterproof layer keeps you comfortable even during short showers.

Forgetting essential medication

Bring personal medicines and basic first aid supplies. Mountain shops may not have exactly what you need.

Not carrying enough cash

Most trekking areas do not have ATMs. Small tea houses accept only cash for meals and accommodation.

Packing List FAQs

1. Do I need to buy everything before coming to Nepal?

No. Almost all trekking gear is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Heavy items like down jackets, sleeping bags and trekking poles can be rented easily.

2. How heavy should my backpack be during the trek?

Your daypack should ideally be light, usually around five to seven kilos. Carry only what you need for the day, such as water, snacks, layers and personal items.

3. Can I wash clothes during the trek?

Yes. Many tea houses offer laundry services for a small fee. Clothes also dry quickly on sunny days if you wash them yourself.

4. Are trekking boots necessary?

Yes. Proper trekking boots provide better ankle support and grip. Make sure they are broken in before the trek to avoid blisters.

5. Do I need a sleeping bag if tea houses provide blankets?

Tea houses provide blankets, but nights in the mountains can be cold. A sleeping bag keeps you warm and comfortable, especially above three thousand metres.

6. How much cash should I carry on the trail?

Most trekking areas do not have ATMs. It is good to carry enough cash for meals, accommodation and small purchases. The amount depends on your route and duration.

7. Can I charge my phone or camera during the trek?

Yes, but charging may cost extra at higher altitudes. A power bank is very useful for longer routes.

8. Should I pack snacks from home?

You can buy snacks on the trail, but they are more expensive. Many trekkers bring a few favourite snacks from home and buy the rest along the way.