What to Pack for a Base Camp Trek in Nepal

Packing for your Everest Base Camp or any high-altitude Himalayan trek can be overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time.

Forget something essential, and you’ll feel it for days. Overpack, and your backpack becomes the enemy.

That’s why we’ve created this complete packing guide, based on our experience guiding treks to Everest, Annapurna, Gokyo, Manaslu, and beyond.

• Keep your main gear under 10–12kg. Porters typically carry up to 15kg per person (two trekkers per porter).
• Use a duffel bag for porters + a daypack for essentials.
• You can rent many items in Kathmandu (like sleeping bags, jackets, poles).
• Weather can change quickly. Layering is key.

Base Layers

• 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts (preferably merino or synthetic)
• 1–2 thermal base layers (top + bottom)

Mid Layers

• 1 fleece or light insulated jacket
• 1 down jacket (essential above 4,000m)

Outer Layers

• Waterproof jacket (with hood)
• Waterproof pants (windproof preferred)

Pants & Shorts

• 2 pairs of trekking pants (quick-dry)
• 1 pair of thermal leggings
• 1 pair of comfortable shorts (optional)

Underwear & Socks

• 3–4 pairs moisture-wicking underwear
• 4–6 pairs wool trekking socks
• 1–2 liner socks (for blister prevention)

Gloves

• 1 lightweight glove liner
• 1 insulated glove or mittens

Headwear

• Sun hat or cap
• Warm beanie or wool hat
• Buff or neck gaiter (for dust and wind)
• Sunglasses (UV400, wraparound ideal)

• Waterproof trekking boots (broken in before the trek)
• Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)
• Optional: trail runners (for easier sections)

• 4-season sleeping bag (rated to –10°C or lower)
  You can rent one in Kathmandu if needed
• Sleeping bag liner (optional but adds warmth and hygiene)
• Earplugs (useful in teahouses)

Your daypack (20–35L) should carry everything you’ll need during the day. Your porter carries the main bag.

• Reusable water bottle (1–2L) or hydration bladder
• Headlamp (with spare batteries)
• Snacks (nuts, energy bars, chocolate)
• Lip balm and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Toilet paper + hand sanitiser
• Rain cover for backpack
• Quick-dry towel or small cloth
• Phone/camera + power bank
• Passport & permits (provided by your guide)
• Travel insurance details

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Small shampoo/soap
• Wet wipes (great for no-shower days)
• Quick-dry face towel
• Deodorant
• Nail clippers
• Tweezers (handy for splinters)
• Personal medications
• Small first aid kit (blister plasters, paracetamol, rehydration salts)

• Altitude sickness meds (Diamox, if prescribed)
• Rehydration sachets or electrolytes
• Basic antibiotics (consult GP before trip)
• Water purification tablets or UV filter
• Small bottle of iodine or hand sanitiser
• Oximeter (optional – guides usually carry one)

• Trekking poles (can rent in Kathmandu)
• Lightweight book or Kindle
• Playing cards or journal
• Lightweight microspikes (for icy trails in winter)
• Laundry line + detergent (for hand washing clothes)

• Heavy-duty mountaineering gear (unless doing technical climbs)
• Jeans or cotton clothing
• Too many electronics
• Large/heavy towels
• Expensive jewellery or valuables

Yes — Kathmandu has dozens of rental shops where you can get:

• Down jackets
• Sleeping bags
• Trekking poles
• Duffel bags
• Gaiters, crampons (seasonal)

Prices are affordable (AUD $1–3/day/item), but check for quality. We can help you pre-check or pre-book rentals as part of your package.

Packing for the Himalayas doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right gear, you’ll stay warm, dry, and comfortable — no matter what the mountain throws at you.

At Base Camp Himalayas, we send every client a pre-departure packing checklist, and we’re always happy to review your gear with you before the trek starts.

Ready to trek smarter, not heavier?

Contact us for a custom itinerary and packing advice.