Trekking Nepal: 10 Essential Items You Need!
There are many packing lists for trekking in Nepal. Before we left, we searched the entire internet, however, once we arrived we actually ended up with a different list. Some items are more straightforward than others and even without any baggage you can find everything for your hike in Thamel (Kathmandu). In this article, we outline the most essential items for any trekking in Nepal + free download for your phone!
1. Cash
It will probably not surprise you that you that electronic payments are simply a no-go in the mountain villages. Do not expect to find any ATM. Maybe there are some options in Lukla or Namche, but even if there are withdrawal rates are probably extreme. So we recommend taking sufficient cash in Kathmandu. Expect prices to rise with altitude.
2. Hiking Boots
Although you see some porters and/or sherpas coming up and down the mountain in slippers, it is really necessary for us non-locals to bring proper hiking boots. It is best to buy a pair above the ankles for good stability. Waterproof is essential and it might be better to use boots that are already worn instead of brand new stuff. For the evenings we packed a pair of sneakers and some slippers for showering.
3. Water Bottle With Filter
Bottled or boiled water is sold everywhere, even at the highest altitudes. However, prices will rise along the track so you will probably buy your most expensive liters of drinking water without preparation. And keeping in mind AMS, you need to drink a lot – like 4L a day! We came prepared with a filter (water to go) and used just one bottle for the whole track, being able to just drink out of the taps or even streams along the route. This works perfectly and not only saves your wallet, but also the environment.
Tip: with the code wetraveloutdoor you’ll get a nice discount!
4. Solar Cell Charger
Another essential item besides potable water is power. Which is simply not present in the mountains. There may be some phone chargers in the accommodations, but keep in mind that it will be your most expensive phone refill ever. Again, we did some research and bought a solar charger in advance. It turned out to be a life saver, as we were able to keep our phones charged the whole track! Without the necessity of any external power source.
5. Down Jacket
Altitude means cold nights, even in summer. And in the rooms there is no heating (as we still have no power source). Usually only the main ‘living’ room in the tea-houses are heated with an old-fashioned stove. So, once in your room, the temperature is just about equal to the level outside. The best way to get a nice jacket is by simply buying one in Kathmandu in one of the really nice outdoor shops in Thamel!
6. Duvet Cover
Warm down sleeping bags are usually for rent (and most of the time included in a trekking package). Although they are essential for keeping you warm at night, they are probable filthy as hell, having never seen a proper washing machine in their life. For a little more comfort at night, take a duvet cover, because sleeping in it makes a big difference in a less clean bed or sleeping bag.
7. Toilet Paper
Even the most basic things are scarce on the mountain. Everything you can buy on the way, came the same way you came – which has its price. Seriously, these bad boys are worth a fortune up there. So take plenty of rolls with you.
8. Sunscreen and Protection
A no-brainer: even when there is total cloud cover the sun will radiate through the thin mountain air. So both sunscreen (also for your lips) and proper clothes are essential to bring. Especially at the middle of the day, a hat, long clothes and a layer of screen are strongly advised.
9. Wash Bottle
The wash bottle is something we invented ourselves. It is no more than an old soda bottle (which you should definitely not drink from anymore) with some water to wash yourself. At the top of the mountain there are no more showers and running water, or sometimes there for an extreme price. So, after a day of hard work, we used it with some soap and a sponge to freshen up a little.
10. A Good Mood
Honestly the most important one! You won’t reach the top if you’re in a bad mood. Live in the moment and enjoy as much as you can, because it is breathtaking from the start to the end! Accept the primitive conditions and just enjoy life as simple as it can get in the mountains. And accept your body to be in some discomfort. It’s not a walk in the park.
Extra Essential Item Trekking in Nepal + Download
Did you know that you are no longer allowed to trek independently in Nepal? As of 2024, it is mandatory to book a guide at least in some regions in the country. We did the trekking via Alpine Club of Himalaya and were assigned a porter and a guide. We would recommend a guided tour, especially for your first trekking. In the end we gave a tip, supporting the locals directly. Additionally, we saw some other groups with small gifts from their own country. Really, the guides and porters deserve something extra for their hard work.
Tip: Download our free packing list for your trekking to Nepal (click on the image below).
After your trekking it is time to explore the capitol of Nepal: Kathmandu!
