Nepal Trek Packing List: Essential Gear Guide | Sabthok Nepal

Essential Gear Packing List for Nepal Treks

Packing for a Nepal trek is a balancing act: bring too much and you'll regret every gram; bring too little and you'll be cold, wet, and miserable. This list has been refined over hundreds of treks.

Clothing

**Base layers** (2x) — Merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking tops and bottoms
**Insulating layer** — Fleece or down jacket (packable down is ideal)
**Hardshell jacket** — Waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex or equivalent
**Trekking pants** (2x) — Quick-dry, convertible are great
**Warm hat & sun hat**
**Buff/neck gaiter**
**Gloves** — Liner + waterproof outer for higher altitudes
**Warm socks** (4-5 pairs) — Merino wool blend

Footwear

**Hiking boots** — Waterproof, ankle-supporting, well broken-in
**Camp shoes** — Lightweight sandals or sneakers for tea houses

Equipment

**Backpack** (30-40L daypack) — For carrying daily essentials
**Duffel bag** (60-80L) — For porters to carry your main gear
**Sleeping bag** — Rated to -10°C to -15°C depending on altitude
**Trekking poles** — Highly recommended, save your knees on descents
**Headlamp** + extra batteries
**Water bottles** (2x 1L) + purification tablets
**First aid kit** — Including Diamox for altitude

Electronics

**Camera** + extra batteries (cold kills batteries)
**Power bank** (20,000mAh minimum)
**Phone** + offline maps downloaded
**Solar charger** (optional but useful)

Toiletries & Misc

**Sunscreen** SPF 50+ and lip balm with SPF
**Sunglasses** — UV400 rated, essential above snow line
**Wet wipes** — Your best friend when showers aren't available
**Earplugs** — Tea houses can be noisy
**Playing cards/book** — For tea house evenings

Pro Tips

1. **Rent, don't buy** — Quality gear is available for rent in Kathmandu's Thamel district 2. **Layer system** — Multiple thin layers beat one thick layer every time 3. **Stuff sacks** — Keep everything organized and waterproof 4. **Total weight** — Aim for 8-10kg in your duffel and 5-8kg in your daypack

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