# The Complete Packing List for a Himalayan Trek

The Big Stuff

**Backpack (50-60L)** with rain cover. Hip belt is essential — it transfers weight off your shoulders.

**Sleeping bag** rated to -10°C for most 3-season treks. Go colder for high passes.

**Trekking poles** — save your knees 30% effort on descents. Telescopic, lightweight.

Clothing (The Layer System)

Base Layer (worn next to skin)

2 x merino wool or synthetic t-shirts (NOT cotton — it holds moisture and chills you)

1 x thermal top for sleeping and cold mornings

2 x quick-dry underwear (again, not cotton)

Mid Layer (insulation)

1 x fleece jacket or synthetic down vest

1 x lightweight down jacket (packs to the size of a water bottle)

Outer Layer (protection)

1 x waterproof rain jacket (minimum 10,000mm rating)

1 x rain pants (cheap ones work fine)

Lower Body

2 x trekking pants (quick-dry, stretchy). Zip-off convertible ones are versatile.

1 x thermal bottom for sleeping

Extremities

2 x trekking socks (merino wool blend — your feet will thank you)

1 x warm beanie/cap

1 x sun hat with brim

1 x pair of liner gloves + 1 x pair of insulated gloves (for passes)

1 x buff/neck gaiter (the most versatile item you'll carry)

Footwear

**Trekking boots** — waterproof, ankle-high, well broken-in. Do NOT bring new boots.

**Camp sandals** — something light for evenings at camp. Crocs work.

**Gaiters** — for snow sections and scree. Optional for easy treks.

Essentials

Headlamp + spare batteries (summit days start at 3 AM)

2 x water bottles (1L each) or hydration bladder

Water purification tablets or filter

Sunscreen SPF50+ and UV sunglasses (Category 3-4)

Lip balm with SPF

Trekking towel (quick-dry)

Toiletries (biodegradable soap, minimal packaging)

Toilet paper + lighter (for burning used paper) + zip-lock bags (pack it out)

First Aid

Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention — consult your doctor)

Ibuprofen / paracetamol

Electrolyte powder (ORS)

Band-aids and blister plasters (Compeed)

Antiseptic cream

Personal medications

What NOT to Pack

Jeans (heavy, slow to dry, useless when wet)

Cotton t-shirts (the "death fabric" — holds moisture, loses insulation when wet)

Heavy books (your phone has Kindle)

More than 2 changes of clothes (you'll wash and rotate)

Anxiety about smelling — everyone smells on Day 3. It's fine.

The Complete Packing List for a Himalayan Trek