A well-planned packing list is essential for comfortable trekking in Nepal. You need layered clothing, sturdy boots, a quality sleeping bag, and a few key accessories — without overpacking.
Most Nepal treks use porter service, which means your main bag is carried for you (max 15kg per porter, shared between 2 trekkers). You carry a daypack with essentials. Here is what experienced trekkers and our local guides recommend.
Clothing — Layer System
- Base layer: 2-3 moisture-wicking shirts (merino wool or synthetic)
- Mid layer: 1-2 fleece or softshell jackets
- Outer layer: Waterproof/windproof jacket with hood
- Trekking pants: 2 pairs of quick-dry trekking pants
- Down jacket: Lightweight packable down for cold mornings and evenings above 3,000m
- Thermal underwear: 1 set for sleeping and cold mornings
- Socks: 3-4 pairs of trekking socks (merino wool blend)
- Hat and gloves: Warm beanie, sun hat, and liner gloves
Footwear
- Trekking boots: Waterproof, ankle-support, broken in before the trip
- Camp shoes: Lightweight sandals or flip-flops for teahouses
- Gaiters: Optional, useful in snow or muddy conditions
Gear
- Daypack: 25-35 liters with rain cover
- Sleeping bag: Rated to -10°C for high-altitude treks (can rent in Kathmandu)
- Trekking poles: Highly recommended for descents (can rent in Kathmandu)
- Headlamp: With extra batteries
- Water bottle: 1-2 liters, plus purification tablets or SteriPEN
- Sunglasses: UV-protection, Category 3 or 4 for snow
- Sunscreen: SPF 50+ for high altitude
Health and Safety
- First-aid kit: Blister plasters, painkillers, altitude sickness medication (Diamox — consult your doctor)
- Personal medications: Enough for the full trek plus extra days
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Toilet paper: Not always available in teahouses
- Lip balm with SPF
Documents and Money
- Passport: Original (needed for permits and checkpoints)
- Travel insurance: Must cover helicopter evacuation above 4,000m
- Cash: Nepali Rupees — no ATMs on most trekking routes
- Passport photos: 4 copies for permits (Eco Holiday Asia handles permits, but carry extras)
What NOT to Bring
- Jeans or cotton clothing (stays wet, dries slowly)
- Heavy books (use a Kindle or phone)
- Excessive electronics
- Full-size toiletries (bring travel sizes)
Can I Rent or Buy Gear in Kathmandu?
Yes. Thamel in Kathmandu has dozens of gear shops selling and renting sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, and other equipment. Quality varies — our guides can recommend reliable shops. Renting a sleeping bag costs approximately NPR 100-200 per day.
Need Help Planning?
Our local guides help trekkers prepare with a pre-trek briefing and gear check before every departure. Contact Eco Holiday Asia for personalized packing advice based on your specific trek and season.
Plan your trek: Trekking in Nepal | Everest Base Camp Trek | Annapurna Base Camp Trek
