Welcome, and thank you for checking out this trekking packing list! I’ve aimed to create a comprehensive and practical resource to make your preparations as stress-free as possible. I recently completed a week long trek in Nepal’s Langtang Valley this October, and I’ve carefully evaluated everything I packed—what was useful, what wasn’t essential, and what I wished I had brought.
Before my trip, I considered writing a packing list, but without thoroughly evaluating every item firsthand, I couldn’t provide the most insightful recommendations. Now, with my trek behind me, I can confidently share a comprehensive list and guide to trekking gear that I believe is unmatched in detail. I genuinely think you’ll struggle to find another packing list as thorough as this one anywhere on the internet.
How to pack for trekking
The trekking packing list is a complete guide to help you prepare for a trek. While this is based on trekking in the Himalayas, where travelers typically move from guest house to guest house without the need for tents, it can also be adapted for treks in other regions. This guide is primarily for multi-day treks but can be scaled down for shorter adventures. This list is based on a fall season trek, with mild days and cold nights, but I will include advice for other seasons—fewer layers for summer and extra warmth for winter.
The guide will include essentials, practical items and some optional extras, with a step-by-step explanation of how to pack efficiently and practically. Most of the clothing items on this list are gender-neutral, but some will be men’s clothing simply because that’s what I packed. If you’re a woman, feel free to substitute with the female alternative or whatever you’re most comfortable with. We’ll go through the packing list in the order I packed my bag, followed by a full, sorted, priority-based list of all items at the end. Let’s get started!
What to bring
Here’s a quick overview of (almost) everything we’ll be packing:
I will be packing everything in my backpack, which is a 40L Berghaus with rain cover, so you can use that as a reference. But keep in mind that I’m a pretty short person, so my clothes don’t take that much space. I also think this backpack is ridiculously large for being 40 litres and I suspect the actual capacity is larger. I would normally recommend something between 45L and 55L for flexible space.
To keep things organized and accessible, I arrange most items into packing cubes. While using packing cubes is optional, I highly recommend them for creating an efficient and tidy system in your backpack. I personally use packing cubes from Exped, which come in a reasonably priced bundle and have worked perfectly for my needs.
Outerwear
What’s on your feet is arguably the most important consideration when preparing for a trek. I recommend bringing a good pair of well-broken-in hiking shoes. Personally, I prefer low-cut trekking shoes, like the Scarpa Mescalito, but footwear is very much a personal preference. Make sure your shoes offer decent stability and stiffness to reduce foot fatigue over long distances.
In addition to footwear, one set of weatherproof outer clothing is a must-have for any trek, regardless of the season. Unexpected rain, snow, or cold winds can happen at any time, and having a reliable outer layer will keep you comfortable and safe. To further enhance water resistance, consider using a waterproofing spray on both your outer clothing and shoes.
Accessories like gloves, a buff, and a beanie are recommended almost year-round, especially in higher altitudes where temperatures can be unpredictable. For gloves, I suggest bringing a pair of thin ones for lighter use and thick mittens for colder conditions.
Basics
For a mid-layer, fleece is an excellent choice. I’m using a jacket from Arc’teryx that works well as both mid-layer and outer layer, though it’s not weatherproof. I recommend bringing one good pair of versatile pants. I’m using a pair from Norrøna that are light, breathable, and durable.
Although not an essential item, shorts can be invaluable when you are feeling warm, even in fall or spring. They’re great for warmer days and help regulate body heat by providing ventilation when you’re sweating. But skip these in the winter. It’s also a good idea to pack one comfortable shirt for relaxing indoors after a day on the trail.
Inner layers
For inner layers, wool-based options are ideal if you can get them. Wool provides excellent warmth even when wet, is naturally odor-resistant, and has self-cleaning properties when left out to dry. Wool T-shirts work perfectly all year, even in summer. They’re breathable and comfortable in warmer weather, and they make an excellent base layer for added warmth when it gets colder. Two are perfect for a week. Bring more or less of depending on the duration of your trek.
For underwear, micro-fiber options are a fantastic choice—they dry quickly, can double as swimwear, and are easy to wash during your trek. Plus, they’re anti-fungal, which is especially helpful if you’re using them for multiple days. You might still consider bringing more than three for treks exceeding a week. When it comes to socks, Darn Tough has very high durability, although they are a bit on the pricier side. Three pairs are perfect for almost any duration if you rotate, as they will dry and self-cleanse sufficiently between usage.
Comfort and hygiene
Don’t forget a towel. Micro-fiber is best as it saves space and dries quickly. Another highly recommended item is a pair of lightweight slippers. These are incredibly handy for walking indoors, making trips to the bathroom, and especially for avoiding direct contact with floors in showers where cleanliness might be questionable.
If you have enough space in your backpack, consider bringing either a sleeping bag or a silk bed-liner, depending on your preference and the conditions of your trek. Personally, I always prefer to have my own sleeping bag for added warmth and because I’m often wary of the cleanliness of bedding in some guesthouses at trekking locations. Down bags are the best option for compactness. However, if you’re looking to save space and weight, a compact silk bed-liner is an excellent alternative. It provides a clean barrier while using guesthouse bedding and is lightweight and easy to pack.
Toiletries and First Aid
I use a compact toiletry bag with a hanging hook, which is practical when there’s limited space to place it down. When it comes to toiletries, pack just the essentials to save space and weight. For me, this includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, hand sanitizer, deodorant, Vaseline, sunscreen, and bug spray. I use a versatile soap from Sea to Summit that doubles as laundry soap, which is incredibly handy for multi-day treks. For bug spray, I recommend one containing DEET, especially for low-altitude trekking locations where insects can be an issue. Always research potential insect-borne diseases before your trip.
A first aid kit is just as crucial—one of those items you hope not to use but must have. A well-equipped standard kit with essentials like compresses, bandages, and wound disinfectant is a good starting point. However, I recommend enhancing your kit with a few extras that can make a big difference:
- Compeed blister plasters: A lifesaver for preventing painful blisters.
- Painkillers: Your preference between ibuprofen or paracetamol, though paracetamol is generally safer for most people.
- Smecta: Useful for managing stomach issues.
- Imodium: A must-have for more severe diarrhea cases.
- Actifed or a similar remedy: Effective for alleviating cold, flu, or respiratory symptoms.
These are the items I personally brought and found necessary, though some may see certain items as optional. Tailor your first aid kit to suit your specific needs, but don’t skimp—being prepared can save your trek from unexpected discomfort or illness.
Gadgets and gear
When trekking, especially if you’re going solo, having reliable GPS navigation is invaluable. I personally recommend Garmin products for their quality and compatibility. I use the Garmin Fēnix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar watch for fitness tracking, navigation, and other features, and the inReach Mini 2 for satellite communication and emergency SOS. While these are optional, they’re helpful for remote trekking and ensuring safety.
A few basic tools can go a long way in handling quick fixes. Some electrical tape and a length of thin nylon rope are lightweight and versatile essentials for on-the-spot repairs. While I’d typically suggest bringing a knife for general utility, it can be tricky to get through customs, so I couldn’t bring one for my trek. Carabiner hooks are another handy addition for attaching extra items to your backpack.
Powerbanks and charging accessories are essential for keeping your devices powered. While many guesthouses provide charging opportunities, having your own powerbank offers peace of mind in case outlets aren’t available. I use a 20,000mAh powerbank from Anker, which is more than enough to charge all my gadgets during multi-day treks.
Sunglasses are an essential item that’s easy to overlook but crucial for protecting your eyes on the trail. High-altitude trekking often means increased UV exposure, and the glare from snow, water, or even rocky terrain can be harsh on your eyes. Choose a pair with UV protection. Polarized lenses are also useful to reduce glare and improve visibility.
Drinking water
Ensuring safe drinking water is essential on any trek, and the need for a water filtering system depends heavily on the location. River or tap water in many areas isn’t entirely safe to drink without precautions, as it can contain harmful bacteria, even in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas. To mitigate this, I bring two aluminum bottles from SIGG—a 0.6L and a 1L—both of which are compatible with the water filtering system I use.
My filtration system utilizes Sawyer filters, capable of filtering up to 400,000 liters (100,000 gallons) of water. While it’s on the pricier side, I highly recommend this setup because it attaches to most popular water bottles, including SIGG, Nalgene, and even standard soda bottles. The system offers flexibility with various accessories, such as bladders for water collection and pre-filtration options, so you can tailor it to your preferences.
On my trek, I used a combination of filtered river water and purchased purified bottled water along the way. This approach allowed me to add electrolyte tablets to my water for better hydration, which is especially important at higher altitudes where staying hydrated is crucial. Whether you choose a similar setup or another solution, investing in a reliable water filtration system ensures safe hydration and reduces reliance on single-use plastic bottles.
Valuables
What valuables you choose to bring is entirely personal, but there are certain items you simply can’t go without. Personally, I use a slim belt-style wallet pouch to carry my most important items, like my passport, money, and national park permits.
The belt wallet is discreet and rests comfortably under your shirt, keeping your essentials secure and easy to access throughout the day. While it might feel a bit touristy, I find it extremely practical for quick access when you need to pay for a cup of tea or show your permit at a checkpoint.
For added security, I split my cash between this belt wallet and a backup wallet stored in my backpack, ensuring I have a contingency plan in case something gets misplaced.
How to pack
Now, let’s go through step-by-step how to pack your backpack. The steps below are a general guide you can adapt based on your specific gear and setup. If you’re using packing cubes, they’re a great place to start for organizing your items efficiently.
The inner layers go nicely in a medium-sized packing cube. I recommend using the rolling technique for effective stacking and to save space.
Place mid-layer, pants, basic clothing and accessories in a large cube. For my trek, I included my towel and bed-liner here. Keep in mind that once your towel gets wet, it’s a good idea to secure it to the outside of your backpack to let it dry while you’re on the move.
All my tech gear, and some tools, go into the small packing cube. I also use a smaller pouch inside this cube to keep all cables neatly tucked away.
Packing the backpack
At this stage, most of the items are packed into cubes, leaving only a few loose items and the outerwear. Here is a comparison with and without packing cubes:
Now it’s time to pack the backpack itself!
Start with heavier or less frequently used items, like your sleeping bag, outerwear, and slippers. These fit perfectly at the bottom and provide a stable base for the rest of your gear.
Place the two largest packing cubes in the main compartment, leaving some space along the sides for water bottles or other similarly shaped items.
Put the remaining pouches and items on top of the packing cubes for easy access. Use the lid compartment for small accessories or things you’ll need to grab quickly, like snacks.
And there you have it! Your backpack is efficiently packed, perfectly balanced, and ready for adventure. With this system, unpacking and repacking will be a breeze.
Optional extras
Here are some optional items you might consider bringing to enhance comfort, convenience, or preparedness on your trek. While not essential, they can add versatility and enjoyment to your journey.
1. Extra base layers
For colder seasons, consider packing an additional set of synthetic thermal base layers. These perform well when worn directly against your skin, underneath a wool layer. They keep you drier and provide extra insulation. A wool balaclava is also worth bringing for colder temperatures. It can be used alongside your beanie and buff for extra warmth or as a sleeping layer to keep your head cozy during cold nights.
2. Trekking poles
Trekking poles can be beneficial for long-distance treks, high-altitudes, or if you want to reduce strain on your knees.
They also help distribute effort across your body, making trekking more manageable. Telescoping trekking poles are especially convenient as they pack down compactly.
3. Thermos
For added convenience and comfort, a thermos can be a game-changer. Many guest houses allow you to fill it with hot water, enabling you to enjoy instant coffee, tea, cocoa, or even plain hot water along the trail. This simple addition can bring a touch of luxury to your journey.
4. Portable speaker
If music is an integral part of your life, consider bringing a portable speaker. It can add to the enjoyment of your evenings, providing a soundtrack to your downtime. However, consider the added weight and the importance of minimizing disruptions to nature or other trekkers.
5. Phrasebook or dictionary
For a deeper connection with the local culture and people, a small phrasebook or dictionary is highly recommended. Compact editions, such as these by Lonely Planet, provide basic sentences and grammar tips, enabling meaningful interactions with locals, especially in areas where English is not widely spoken.
6. Snacks and Supplements
Bringing some food supplies can be a great idea. Electrolyte tablets were a standout for me, as they noticeably improved hydration—essential at higher altitudes. Protein bars provide a convenient energy boost.
Caffeine gum is another option I personally enjoy. While I’m not a heavy caffeine user, these gums deliver a gentle kick. Be cautious with caffeine at high altitudes, as excessive intake can exacerbate altitude sickness.
Complete packing list
Now for the complete list of items to pack for your trek. This comprehensive checklist puts everything together, organized by category, and priority. Use this as the ultimate guide to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
I won’t be listing personal items like your passport, money, mobile phone, or any local trekking permits in this guide, as these are unique to each traveler, and I trust you’ll keep track of them yourself. However, feel free to use this as a reminder to double-check your personal essentials and consider creating a small checklist to ensure nothing important gets left behind.
Packing gear 🎒
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Outdoors backpack 45-55L | 1 |
| Packing cubes | 3 |
Clothing 🥾
| Item | Amount | Fall/Spring | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hiking shoes | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Weatherproof jacket | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Weatherproof pants | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Beanie | 1 | ✔︎ | ✘ | ✔︎ |
| Gloves | 1 pair | ✔︎ | ✘ | ✔︎ |
| Mittens | 1 pair | ✔︎ | ✘ | ✔︎ |
| Buff | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Mid-layer fleece | 1 | ✔︎ | ✘ | ✔︎ |
| Hiking pants | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Shorts | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✘ |
| Shirt | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Inner wool layer set | 1 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Wool t-shirt | 2 | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Underwear | 3+ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
| Wool socks | 3 pairs | ✔︎ | ✔︎ | ✔︎ |
Gear and accessories 🗺️
| Item | Amount | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Micro-fiber towel | 1 | Quick-drying and compact, ideal for trekking and multi-day use. |
| Slippers | 1 | Useful for indoor use, trips to the bathroom, or questionable shower floors. |
| Sports watch | 1 | Tracks fitness, navigation, and altitude metrics. |
| Navigation device or map | 1 | Ensures safe navigation during the trek. |
| Headlight | 1 | Essential for visibility in dark conditions or early/late trekking hours. |
| Carabiner hooks | 3 | Attach gear or bottles to your backpack for easy access. |
| Thin nylon rope | 10m | Useful for quick fixes, drying clothes, or emergencies. |
| Electrical tape | 1 roll | Multi-purpose tool for on-the-go repairs. |
| Code lock | 1 | Secures your backpack in shared spaces or transit. |
| Powerbank | 1 | Keeps devices charged during multi-day treks without access to outlets. |
| Charging cables | ? | Required for charging your electronic devices. |
| Sunglasses | 1 | Protects eyes from UV rays and glare at high altitudes. |
| Water bottles | 2 | Essential for hydration; aluminum or plastic, compatible with filtration. |
| Filtration system | 1 | Ensures safe drinking water by filtering out bacteria and contaminants. |
| Sleeping bag | 1 (optional) | Provides warmth and cleanliness in guesthouses or camping. |
| Silk bed-liner | 1 (optional) | Lightweight alternative to a sleeping bag; adds a layer of cleanliness. |
| Valuables pouch | 1 (optional) | Keeps essentials like passport and money secure and easily accessible. |
| Extra wallet | 1 (optional) | Backup for cash or cards, separate from main valuables pouch. |
Toiletries and First Aid 🩹
| Toiletry bag x1 |
|---|
| Toothbrush |
| Toothpaste |
| Shampoo |
| Soap (multi-use) |
| Hand sanitizer |
| Deodorant |
| Vaseline (for chafing, dry lips or skin) |
| Sunscreen (high SPF, especially for high altitudes) |
| Bug spray (preferably DEET-based for maximum effectiveness) |
| First Aid Kit x1 |
|---|
| Compeed blister plasters |
| Painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen or paracetamol) |
| Smecta (for stomach issues) |
| Imodium (for severe diarrhea) |
| Actifed or similar (relief for cold, flu, or congestion symptoms) |
| Adhesive bandages (various sizes) |
| Sterile gauze pads |
| Medical tape |
| Antiseptic wound disinfectant |
| Tweezers (for splinters or ticks) |
| Scissors |
| Disposable gloves (for hygienic wound treatment) |
Optional extras 💭
| Item | Amount | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic thermal layer set | 1 | Adds insulation; ideal for layering under wool layers in colder conditions. |
| Wool balaclava | 1 | Protects the head and face in extreme cold; useful for sleeping or trekking. |
| Trekking poles | 1 pair | Reduces strain on knees and helps with balance on uneven terrain. |
| Thermos | 1 | Keeps beverages hot, allowing for tea, coffee, or warm water on the trail. |
| Portable speaker | 1 | Adds enjoyment with music during evenings or breaks. |
| Phrasebook | 1 | Helps communicating with locals and learn about their culture. |
| Electrolyte tablets | ? | Improves hydration and replaces lost salts, especially at higher altitudes. |
| Protein bars | ? | Provides energy and nutrition. |
| Caffeine gum | ? | Offers energy boost. |
That’s it!
Hopefully, you’ve found this packing list valuable and feel more prepared for your trek. I’ve done my best to cover all the essentials and provide practical tips based on experience. However, if you think I’ve missed something or have suggestions to improve the list, feel free to drop a comment below. I’ll be quick to review and update the guide to make it even more comprehensive.
Also check out:
- Solo Trekker’s Guide to Langtang Valley
- Best Time to Trek in Langtang Valley
- Navigating Nepal’s Solo Trekking Regulations
Happy packing and happy trekking 🙂
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