Suggested Equipment List

Trekking in the mountains requires careful preparation, and having the right gear ensures safety, comfort, and an enjoyable experience. The equipment and gear may vary depending on the altitude, season, and difficulty level of the trek. Below, we have compiled a recommended equipment list that is essential for trekking and climbing.

At Summit International Travel and Tours, we offer rental gear for both trekking and climbing, ensuring that you have access to quality equipment without the need for excessive purchases.

General Equipment

  • Four-season sleeping bag (-20°C recommended) (Rental available: USD 35)
  • Insulated down jacket (Rental available: USD 35)
  • Daypack (25-30 liters) with rain cover
  • Duffel bag for the porter to carry (Provided free during the trek)
  • Waterproof cover for backpack
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)

Headwear & Eyewear

  • Sun hat or cap (Complimentary trekking cap provided)
  • Warm woolen hat or beanie
  • Scarf or neck buff (protects from wind and cold)
  • Polarized sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Headlamp or torch (with extra batteries)

Upper Body Clothing

  • Lightweight moisture-wicking base layers (thermal recommended for higher altitudes)
  • Long-sleeved technical shirts
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Insulated fleece or down jacket
  • Breathable mid-layer or softshell jacket
  • Rain jacket or poncho

Lower Body Clothing

  • Thermal base layer (for colder regions)
  • Trekking pants (at least 2-3 pairs)
  • Comfortable pants for evenings at the tea houses
  • Waterproof and windproof shell pants
  • Hiking shorts (for lower altitudes or warm seasons)

Handwear

  • Lightweight inner gloves
  • Insulated, waterproof gloves (for high-altitude treks)
  • Woolen gloves (for tea houses and mild cold)

Footwear

  • Trekking boots (waterproof and well broken-in)
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals (for tea house stays)
  • Woolen socks (to keep feet warm at high altitudes)
  • Hiking socks (multiple pairs for rotation)
  • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow protection)
  • Crampons (if trekking in snow-covered areas)

Undergarments & Sleepwear

  • Quick-dry undergarments
  • Sports bras (for women)
  • Thermal sleepwear for cold temperatures

Personal First Aid Kit & Medications

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
  • Lip balm or Vaseline
  • Antiseptic cream or ointment
  • Cough syrup and throat lozenges (for altitude-induced cough)
  • Basic medicines for headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and altitude sickness
  • Personal prescribed medication (if any)

Note: Our guides carry essential medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits, but it is advisable to bring personal medications and first aid items.

Optional Essentials

  • Passport (original and extra photocopies)
  • Extra passport-sized photos (for permits, if required)
  • Reusable water bottle (1-2 liters capacity)
  • Water purification tablets or portable water filter
  • Small towel and personal hygiene items
  • Toilet paper, wet wipes, and biodegradable soap
  • Power bank and spare batteries
  • Camera and memory cards
  • Snacks (protein bars, nuts, or dried fruits)
  • Book, playing cards, or journal (for downtime in tea houses)
  • Pee bottle/pee funnel (for women, optional for high-altitude treks)
  • Thermos for hot drinks
  • Whistle (for emergency signaling)

Baggage Guidelines

  • Porter Service: Each trekker’s duffel bag should weigh around 10 kg (22 lbs.). One porter carries the baggage of two trekkers.

  • Daypack: Should be light and contain essentials like cash, documents, water, snacks, and personal items.

  • Storage: Non-essential luggage can be stored safely at our Kathmandu office or your hotel.

  • Flight Luggage Limit: For flights such as Kathmandu-Lukla, total baggage allowance is 15 kg (33 lbs.), including 10 kg (22 lbs.) in the duffel bag and 5 kg (11 lbs.) in the backpack.

Additional Services from Summit International Travel and Tours

  • Complimentary duffel bag, trekking cap, map, and t-shirt during the pre-trip briefing in Kathmandu.

  • Rental service for sleeping bags and down jackets.

  • Assistance with excess luggage storage at our office.

  • Professional trekking guides and porters to assist throughout your journey.

Note: In case of loss or damage to rental gear, replacement charges will apply. Down jackets and sleeping bags, if lost or damaged, will incur a charge of USD 200 per item.