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What to Pack / What to Carry |
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The higher the trek (especially during winter months), the more extreme the conditions will be, so tailor the things you pack according to the schedule and altitude of your trek. (Think layers of clothing to accommodate temperature variations and sturdiness and comfort for footwear for terrain.) Also take into account airline restrictions and penalties regarding the size and weight of luggage. Many items can easily be purchased in Kathmandu at very reasonable prices so you may want to buy them there instead of bringing them back and forth.
Note that Himalayan Seva Expedition and Trek porters are only allowed to carry 35 kg (roughly 77 lbs) combined for two people so don’t over-pack for your trek, or else you will overload your backpack and diminish your trekking experience. Below are suggestions as to what you should consider bringing on your trek. Not all of them are necessary.
Clothing & Footwear for All Treks
- Down or fiberfill parka (with hood)
- Same as all treks plus...
- Sweaters
- Hiking shorts and pants
- Waterproof jacket
- T-shirts
- Underwear
- Baseball cap / sunhat
- Swimwear (optional)
- Socks (cotton)
- Sneakers
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Clothing & Footwear for Treks Above 400m/1300 ft
- Insulated pants
- Nylon jacket and pants
- Thermal or silk underwear
- Hat (close-fitting)
- Lined gloves
- Gaiters
- Hiking boots
- Heavier socks (wool)
- Down booties
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Personal items for all treks, regardless of altitude
- Backpack
- Toiletries & medications
- Sunscreen & lip balm w/ SPF 30+
- Towel
- Toilet paper
- Moist towelettes
- Lighter / weatherproof matches
- Goggles / sunglasses
- Knife
- Laundry soap
- Sewing kit
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Optional equipment for all treks, regardless of altitude
- Water bottle
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Compass / maps / guidebooks
- Still / video cameras & equipment
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit*
- GPS unit
- Altimeter
- Thermometer
- Binoculars
- Reading materials / music
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* Our guides carry first-aid kits but you may want to carry one of your own as well to have moleskin pads, band-aids, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, Benadryl, and Imodium handy.
As for money, the amount you bring on your trip and your trek is up to you. Himalayan Seva Expedition and Trek provides all meals but does not cover the cost of incidentals such as refreshments, snacks, souvenirs, tips, and the like. Most people do fine with the equivalent of US $10 during their treks.
The things that you do not carry with you on the trek can be securely stored at your hotel or guest house in Kathmandu. As with lodging in any part of the world, it is a good idea to use a lock on your luggage as an added precaution for items.
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