Here below we discuss on the gears that we need to take during our treks in Nepal. This is normal list of high altitude treks in Nepal.
Kitbag (duffel bag/duffle bag)-For the all the treks your gear is carried either by the porters or Yaks/Mules that is why your stuffs should be packed in a strong kitbag. It should be simple designed with no foldable and wheels. In Kathmandu variety of Kitbag from local to branded one are available beforehand. Basically go for 120L but if you are compact packer the 90L is also not bad.
Sleeping bag and Sleeping bag liner: 4-5 season sleeping bag rated with -25C to -30C are most preferable on the high altitude treks in Nepal. Good, Light, fluffy and thick with extra section on neck are wonderful one. In case of Sleeping bag liner Cotton, silk, thermal or fleece are good one, it saves washing your sleeping bag and adds warmth which is available in Kathmandu.
Inflatable sleeping pad-For camping trips, we provide a foam mattress but you can bring own air mattress for the highest level of comfort.
Day pack-Your day pack should be comfortable and a good waist band that transfers some of the weight to the hips is most important. Think about size once, because you need space for a jacket, fleece, water bottle, camera and sunscreen, sun lotion etc.
Boots-A comfortable and good boot with good ankle support, plenty of toe space for long descent, slightly stiff sole and light is always utmost need for a happy trek. As you walk on foot everyday along the rough and stony trail, ups and down you need a comfortable feet.
Socks- Three to four pairs of cotton sport socks for the low country and three to four pairs of thick trekking socks for the high country and cool evening always better. Socks with a high natural fibre content, either wool or cotton, are usually more comfortable and less smelly than synthetic socks.
Camp shoes/sandals/flip-flops-At end of the day and in the morning in the high country sandals and camp shoes combined with socks keeps warm.
Fleece jacket, Down jacket and Wind/Rain jacket: Either Fleece jacket or thick thermal top or a light down is essential. Down jacket is the most important gear while on high country trek. Wind/Rain sheeted jackets are recommended for treks over passes.
Thermal shirts/underwear and Nightwear thermals: Good thermals sets are always wonderful in high country; light thermal tops are even useful in low country. Light weight silk nightwear thermals may also essential.
Day-wear shirt: T-shirts and travel shirt both are popular but a travel shirt collar protects the back of your neck and the sleeves can be rolled up or down. Take two so you can swap damp for dry.
Trekking pants and Wind pants-Two light material, loose and medium-colored is best. If you have soft shell trekking pants then special wind pants are not needed.
Underwear: 4+ pairs.
Warm hat/balaclava: Nice for the evenings, and useful for cold trekking days. Beanies work, so do buffs.
Neck gaiter– You may also need a fleece neck gaiter.
Trekking poles- Trekking poles are useful especially on steep, rough terrain however, if you are not used to using them then leave it you can survive without it.
Sunglasses- A good wrap around glasses suitable for snow, is recommended
Mittens/gloves- Bring a good pair of wind-proof gloves.
Water bottle- It is most important gear, bring minimum two water bottle with one liter or more in capacity, take boiling water and be leak-proof. Or,at least 1 water bottle IN ADDITION to a Camel bag .
Pee bottle-It is very useful on cold high country nights.
Head torch – Bring one or two head torches.
Tent lantern– If you think that, you need a tent lantern then bring one.
Towel- Bring only a small one trekking, a camp towel or simply a facecloth.
Sunscreen and lip balm with sunscreen: Bring your favorite brand sunscreen, sun block , cold creams and lip guard to protect from sun and cold.
Moisturizer: You may also the moisturizer to well cared for skin.
Sun hat- Bring a technical running cap or a wide-brim sun hat.
First aid kit- We carry a comprehensive med kit with Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, decongestants, lozenges, various antibiotics for Nepalese varieties of diarrhoea and chests infections, Diamox (an acclimatizing aid drug), antiseptic, antihistamine cream, oral rehydration, splints, bandages and band-aids.
You should bring any personal medicines that you need, and if you have had blisters in the past, a good blister kit.
Water purification- On camping treks we provide boiled water in the morning and evening (or boiled water when particularly cold), and so you may not need water purification.
Camera & Books- Bring a camera if you need it, and be sure charging options. Bring one or two books as per your interest, which might be related to your destination/novel or whatever you prefer. In Kathmandu there are some great second-hand book are available in book shops.
Crampons and ice axe-Not needed for trekking.
Camp sock–the fleece lined colorful wool socks.
Snacks and nutrition- On trek you will be served plenty of good food, three time meals along with tea/coffee. However, you may also want to carry wholesome of snacks and vitamin tablets. So, bring dried nuts and fruits, Chocolate, chocolate bars, dried fruit bars, Clif bars, Power bars, energy gels etc.
Renting equipment-Down jackets and sleeping bags are easy to rent in Kathmandu.
What is available in Kathmandu?
The most popular brands trekking gears are available in Kathmandu. At Thamel, Tridevi Marg a street holds shops with imported brad gear, The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, Black Diamond climbing gears and other necessary item for trekking are available in reasonable price. In, additions there are several local made gear are also available in Thamal at cheaper price but check carefully before buy them.
What we provide
In our camping trips, we provide all the tents, a closed cell mat, all the cutlery and utensils, cooking pots, stoves; LED dining lights, tables and stools, kitchen tent, dining tent and toilet tent; all the main meals and afternoon tea while trekking but not trail snacks; and the best service we can manage.