A Complete Nepal Trek Packing List

Tamang Heritage trek — Tamang Heritage Trek

First time trekking in Nepal? Want a second opinion on your own packing list? You have come to the right place! Welcome. This is the most useful and detailed packing list out there that is specific to trekking in Nepal.

Nepal is any adventurer’s dream, with countless treks into the Himalayas to choose from. Knowing exactly what to pack on your trek is key for success, safety and enjoyment. Whether you are carrying your own pack or utilizing a porter, it’s important to pack only what is necessary. It can be a challenge to know what to bring and what to leave behind, so we’re here to help!

Below is a detailed Nepal trek packing list along with two printable PDF packing checklists.

This detailed packing list will help you plan in advance and can be referred to again once you’ve arrived in Kathmandu. Be sure to use your own judgement when packing, in combination with the suggestions from our packing list. The below trek packing list is appropriate for most treks in Nepal including popular routes like the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp, as well as less-travelled paths like the Upper Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Nar Phu Valley Yoga Trek. You might need to adjust the item amounts depending on the length of trek you’re planning to do, your own personal preferences and whether or not your trekking solo or in a group.

It is highly recommended to pack light in order to protect the well-being of porters. Porters are strong and extremely capable, but they’re still human. With a responsible trekking company like Himalayan Peace Treks, there are limits on the amount that porters can carry safely. Porters can carry a maximum of 20 kg for two people (a maximum of 10 kg per person), so please use this as a guideline when packing and aim for under 10 kg.

Whenever possible, consider packing biodegradable and reusable items in order to trek more sustainably.

This guide includes tips for packing, a detailed list with explanations and a short checklist that you can print and use. Feel free to contact our small ethical trekking company, Himalayan Peace Treks, if you have any questions.

Packing Tips for Nepal Trekking

Pack Light

Most people heavily overpack for their first trek, so keep that in mind when organizing your gear. You can often wear items many times, share certain things amongst a group, and even do little bits of laundry along the way. Minimize unnecessary items, choose lightweight materials and bring as much multifunction gear as possible.

Pack Your Favourites

When choosing what to bring, pick items that you already know and love (heading off on your trek is not the ideal time to break in new hiking boots!!!). Make it easy on yourself and test out gear beforehand and bring your favourites. If something is itchy or uncomfortable at home then it will be ten times worse on the trek!

Be Prepared for Weather Extremes

Ever heard the proverb “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing”? It’s certainly true while trekking in Nepal! It is recommended that you bring a range of clothing to suit a variety of weather conditions as you hike up and down in elevation. During the day, at lower elevation, it is often extremely hot and sunny so things like sun hats, sunscreen and shorts will serve you well.

Then in the evenings and at higher altitude you’ll be reaching for your hats, puffy jackets and long underwear. If your trek includes a high mountain pass you might encounter snow and ice so crampons will come to handy. Having rain gear, especially if trekking around monsoon season (May-August), will also keep you dry and warm.

A snowy morning on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Be Prepared for Emergencies

It’s not fun to think about what could go wrong while trekking in Nepal, but it’s worth considering so that you can be prepared. Bring blister kits, medication and a first aid kit if your guide isn’t bringing one. Purchase medical travel insurance that covers your whole trip and what you’re going to be doing (eg. reaching 5000 m elevation). Share insurance information with your trekking company and as well as photos of your passport and IDs to friends and family.

Consider Purchasing in Nepal

Nepali people rely heavily on tourism for revenue and job creation. Perhaps you will consider supporting the local economy by purchasing some items once you arrive in Kathmandu or along the trekking route. Thamel, in the heart of Kathmandu, is a trekker’s paradise, packed to the brim with anything trekkers might need for their adventure.

Generic trekking gear, snacks, and toiletries can be found in Thamel. In the spirit of transparency, please be aware that items are often cheap, which is then reflected in the quality, so maybe don’t plan to get your big ticket items in Kathmandu.

Pack Mindfully of the Local Culture

Nepal is a beautifully unique place, not just in the magic of its natural landscapes, but in its depth of traditional culture. Many treks take you far into remote areas of the Himalayas in which modesty is the standard. It is important that you dress so that you are comfortable while trekking, but please also consider the cultural norms when selecting what clothing to bring.

Openly changing in front of people or in public spaces is not common. If you would like to enter temples, monasteries and sacred places, your knees and shoulders need to be covered.

Pack Sustainably

While trekking into the depths of the Himalayas, you are leaving behind modern filtration systems and proper garbage disposal. This means that extra consideration is needed for what you choose to carry in because it might just stay there forever!
We highly recommend biodegradable and natural items for products such as toothpaste, soap and laundry detergent.

Limit the amount of packaged items you bring and perhaps plan to carry out your garbage. We recommend purchasing drinks such as hot chocolate or hot lemon honey as a treat instead of items in plastic bottles.

Bring your own water filtration system, or plan to purchase boiled water, instead of relying on buying single-use plastic water bottles (it’s 2025 are we done with single-use bottles yet?!).

In addition to toilet paper, many trekkers have had success with bringing a reusable pee cloth. It is specifically designed to be used after peeing, washed and then hung on your backpack to dry.

Before you come, you can prepare by reading more about the DOs and DON’T of sustainable trekking in Nepal.

Without any further ado…..

PRINTABLE PACKING CHECKLIST

We have two printable Nepal Trek Packing Lists for both a long trek, such as the Everest Three Passes Trek, as well as a short trek, such as the Mardi Himal Trek. Please use your discretion when packing and trust your instincts.

> LONG TREK CHECKLIST <

> SHORT TREK CHECKLIST <

Detailed Packing List

Below is the breakdown of what to pack when trekking in Nepal. It helps to explain the two trekking packing list for both a LONG TREK and a SHORT TREK.

Travel Documents and Money

Passport

- Some treks require your passport if, for example, you’re taking a flight or need to get your permit at a checkpoint
- Traveling with photocopies of your passport is always a good idea
- It’s also recommended to send pictures of your passport to friends and family, just in case

Passport photos (1-2)

- Passport-style photos of yourself with a white background are needed for some permits and can be sent to your trekking company ahead of time

$¥€ Any major currency to pay for tourist visa upon arrival at the airport

- US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days
- Using a credit card here is not recommended
- Accepted currencies to pay for your Nepali tourist visa include:
  - AUD, CAD, SGD, DKK, MYR, USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, QAD, SAR, KRW, JPY, CNY, HKD, THB, KWD, BHD

$¥€ Any major currency to pay for your trek or tour

- Cash is preferable for most companies as Nepal still widely operates in cash

रु (NPR) Nepali rupees for spending money on the trek

- Extra cash is needed to pay for things outside of your trek package such as souvenirs and snacks, fancy coffees and desserts, hot showers and wifi, and donations and tips
- Nepali rupees are only available once you are in Nepal
- You can exchange cash or take out rupees at an ATM in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Nepal is a cash country; there are no reliable ATMs on most treks and cards are not accepted while trekking

Personal IDs and money cards

- A good tip for travelling anywhere is to have multiple credit cards in case one gets cancelled
- Send photos of your important IDs to friends and family, just in case

Insurance plan

- Purchase quality medical travel insurance before you travel and send the information to your trekking company, family and friends
- Check that your insurance plan covers the activities that you will be doing
  - For example, trekking above 5000 m elevation, paragliding, bungee jumping, etc.

Clothing

Upper Body

Base Layer

- Moisture-wicking shirts (1-2 for short trek, 2-4 for long trek)
  - These can be short and/or long sleeve depending on your preference
  - These will be your only layer on hot and sunny days at lower elevation and an underlayer as you gain elevation and the temperature drops
  - These need to be comfortable against your skin and lightweight
- Warm shirts (1 for short trek, 1-2 for long trek)
  - Warm and cozy shirts (likely long sleeve) for the tea houses, sleeping and perhaps as an underlayer on a cold day of hiking
- Sports bras (1-2 for short trek, 2-3 for long trek)
  - Only bring your most comfortable, breathable, supportive bras!
  - These can easily be rinsed along the way if needed and double as a bathing suit for hot springs

Mid Layer

- Fleece zip up/pullover (1 for short trek, 1-2 for long trek)
  - For hiking and in the tea houses
  - Picture this: it will likely be chilly in the morning so you start with a sweater on. Then you work up a sweat during the morning hike and lose the layer. Then, out it comes again from your day pack while you wait for your dal bhat to be cooked fresh for lunch! After lunch, the on-and-off dance of the mid-layer continues…
  - This layer will also keep you cozy and warm in the evenings

Outer Layer

- Puffy jacket (1 for short or long trek)
  - A good puffy jacket will serve you well as you gain elevation and the temperatures drop
    A sunny & bright morning on the Langtang Trek
  - Mostly you’ll wear your puffy jacket during the chilly evenings and mornings around the tea house, but some trekkers who run cold, have it available throughout the day to put on during breaks
  - It will also come in handy if you are trekking during the winter season (December-early February) and if your trek includes any high mountain passes
  - You can easily rent a puffy jacket in Kathmandu or Pokhara if needed for ~$1-2 per day
- Waterproof/windproof jacket with hood (1 for short or long trek)
  - Important for monsoon season (May-August)
  - Some trekkers bring a poncho that goes over their pack as well as their bodies
  - Also useful as another layer for higher elevation where it can get windy; ideally it fits over your puffy jacket

Hands

- Inner gloves (1 pair for short or long trek)
  - Preferably lightweight and quick drying
  - Can be worn under big gloves or as their own layer
  - Useful with trekking poles
- Outer gloves (1 pair for short or long trek)
  - Thick, warm and waterproof
  - These are optional for some treks and some trekkers; ask yourself, do I usually struggle with cold fingers?
  - Needed for treks with passes and during winter (December-early February)

Head

- Sun hat/ball cap (1 for short or long trek)
  - The sun is strong, even when it’s cold
  - The style of hat you choose is based on your preference
  - Some trekkers wear only a ball cap, others wear a 360 degree coverage fishing hat! Think about how you will best protect your face, ears and neck
- Warm hat (1 for short or long trek)
  - A cozy hat for cold nights and chilly days once you’re at higher elevation
- Buff/neck tube/scarf (1 for short trek, 1-2 for long trek)
  - Something to protect your face from dust, sun & wind
  - No need for two of the same item, but for a longer trek you might want one that is thinner and one that is warmer
- Headlamp with batteries/charger (1 for short or long trek)
  - Useful for any early mornings that start before sunrise
  - You can also use around the tea houses in the evenings (some rustic tea houses don’t have lights in the bathrooms) or for when the power goes out, which is not uncommon in the mountains
- Sunglasses (1 for short or long trek)
  - A not-to-be-missed item to protect your eyes during sunny days and essential if going over a pass
  - High UV protection and ones that wrap around the sides are recommended
    - Especially if you are doing a pass where the sun is really strong and reflects off of the snow

Nepal Trek Packing List — Sunglasses are a must!

Lower Body

Base Layer

- Underwear (5-7 pairs for short trek, 6-9 pairs for long trek)
  - Some trekkers swear by only bringing moisture-wicking material but we find that that’s only a good idea if you like the feel – just bring what is most comfortable to you
  - The number of pairs that you bring is slightly a matter of preference and depends on whether you will wash some along the way
- Warm long underwear (1 pair for short trek and 1-2 pairs for long trek)
  - For the tea houses, sleeping and any cold high elevation hiking

Mid Layer

Pack a maximum of 2-3 pairs of bottoms for a short trek and a maximum of 3-5 pairs for a long trek

Not all of the below listed are required!

- Hiking shorts (1-2 for short or long trek)
  - Days are warmer at lower elevation so shorts or cut-off pants are appropriate
- Leggings (1-3 pairs for short or long trek)
  - Some trekkers wear leggings instead of shorts or hiking pants, so this will be up to your discretion
- Hiking pants (1-3 pairs for short or long trek)
  - Hiking pants are super subjective to the trekker so bring what you normally like to hike in
  - Many trekkers mistakenly pack tons of pants options and then end up sticking to their favourite 1 or 2 pairs
- Lined pants (1 pair for short or long trek)
- You can bring thicker warm pants for colder days or just plan to layer up with long underwear instead

Outer Layer

- Cozy pants (1 pair for short or long trek)
  - Something warm, like fleece, to lounge in at the tea houses
- Waterproof/windproof hiking pants (1 pair for short or long trek)
  - Necessary during monsoon season (May-Aug), otherwise regular water resistant hiking pants will likely do just fine

Feet

- Thin hiking socks (2-4 pairs for short trek, 3-5 pairs for long trek)
  - The better the quality socks, the better time you’ll have
    - Higher quality socks are usually worth the money as they are better at blister prevention, reducing smell and managing temperature
  - Try out a few brands and styles and pick your favourites
- Thick hiking socks (1-2 pairs for short or long trek)
  - Some trekkers are happy to wear thin socks all trek long, so thicker socks are optional if you prefer a thicker pair for colder days
- Cozy socks (1 pair for short trek, 1-2 pairs for long trek)
  - For tea houses and for sleeping (how very controversial, do you sleep with your socks on?!)
- Hiking boots (1 pair for short or long treks)
  - Good boots that you have (ideally) already broken in
  - If you are carrying weight, a taller boot will help support your ankles
  - Thick tread will help you navigate varying terrain
- Tea house shoes (1 pair for short or long treks)
  - There’s nothing quite like the feeling of taking your hiking shoes off after a long day on the trails
  - Bring one pair of sandals, light running shoes, slides, crocs, etc. for the tea houses – be sure that they fit your warm socks into them
- Shower shoes (1 pair for short or long treks)
  - This could be flip flops, thongs, slides, etc. to be worn in the shower
  - These are optional if your tea house shoes can double as shower shoes or if it’s a short trek and you’re not planning on showering
  - Consider bringing one pair to share if travelling with a companion
- Microspikes/Crampons (1 pair for short or long trek)
  - Only needed for certain treks with passes
  - Can easily get in Kathmandu if needed

Trekking Equipment

Large bag

- This can be a backpack or a duffel bag for your porter to carry your main items
- Many companies, including Himalayan Peace Treks, provide a complimentary duffle bag for the items your porter will carry
- An absolute maximum of 20 kg per two people (10 kg per person) can go in this bag

Day pack

- A small but structurally supportive day pack for you to carry you daily items
- This pack will hold items such as sunscreen, extra layers and (of course) tasty treats
- Any bag that is 15-35 L will do

Optional: Waist bag/Fanny pack

- Some trekkers appreciate a bag around their waist (especially if their pack doesn’t have good hip pockets) to keep items handy such as hand sanitizer, tissues and cash

Sleeping bag

- Tea houses usually provide one blanket per person and it is often not enough to keep warm at higher elevation or during colder months
- You can easily rent a sleeping bag in Kathmandu or Pokhara if needed for ~$1-2 per day

Trekking poles

- Some trekkers choose to go without but they are usually a good idea for stability, posture and to help protect the knees on the descents
- The lighter the better
- Poles are another easy item to get at one of the many trekking stores in Kathmandu or Pokhara

Water bottle and/or bladder

- This is a matter of preference and backpack design (does your bag hold a bladder?)
- If possible, it’s nice to have a bottle (such as a Nalgene) that can safely handle hot water so you can use it as a delightful hot water bottle at night!

Water purification system

- It is up to you to bring your own water purification system such as a filtering bottle, external filter, sterilizing tablets/drops, a Steripen, etc.
- Our preference is that you do not rely on buying disposable plastic water bottles
- A good option for many trekkers is to purchase boiled water along the way

Camera and/or phone

- Think ahead about how you would like to capture your incredible Nepali trek!
- Be sure to double check that you have all necessary cords, chargers, batteries, etc.

Medications

This section is completely personal – consult your doctor and plan accordingly. We think it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Any personal prescribed medication

- Be sure to bring your regular prescription medication and double check you won’t run out while in Nepal

Precautionary medications

- These medications are a good idea to always travel with
- This includes things like: painkillers, anti-inflammatories, anti-nausea, antidiarrheals, antihistamines, antacids, and cold meds

Medicated creams

- Some trekkers bring a small amount of hydrocortisone cream and/or antiseptic cream for potential minor cuts and insect bites

Antibiotics

- For chest/upper respiratory infection and for abdominal/bowel issues
- This is absolutely optional, consult your doctor and consider what you’re comfortable with

Vitamins

- Also optional and up to you and your doctor
- Certain vitamins such as Vitamin B6, C, D, and E, Iron, Magnesium, and Zinc are believed to help with altitude sickness

Altitude sickness medication

- It is a good idea to have some with you and use as treatment for altitude sickness instead of taking beforehand as a precaution
- As with all of the medications listed, this is optional and up to you and your doctor’s discretion

Electrolytes

- You’ll be sweating lots so having electrolyte powder or tablets is an excellent idea

All layers are on for a sun salutation while yoga trekking

Toiletries

Preferably choose biodegradable/natural products whenever possible

Toothbrush & toothpaste

Shampoo

- Only bring if you are planning to shower: some short treks aren’t worth showering on if it’s cold!

Soap

- Multifunctional soap that can be used for your hands (many tea houses don’t provide soap), your body, and maybe even your hair (?)
- You can use for your laundry or bring a little bit of additional laundry soap

Toilet paper

- Traditionally, Nepali people use water instead of paper for their bathroom needs so there is not toilet paper provided in tea houses
- You can purchase toilet paper along the way if needed
- Some trekkers bring a reusable ‘pee cloth’ to use along the route for a more sustainable options

Moisturizer

- For your face and body, it gets dry up there!

Sunscreen

- The sun is intense, SPF10000+ is highly recommended (just kidding, but definitely bring good sunscreen)
- If you are going over a pass, be sure to cover delicate areas such as under your chin, under your nose, and inside your ears because the sun can reflect off of the snow

Lip balm

- This is surprisingly important! Bring a minimum of one lip balm/lip chap
- Ideally try to find one that has some SPF to protect your lips

Menstrual items

- Bring your own because the products in Nepal might be different from what you’re used to

Wet wipes

- Always a good idea, but specifically while trekking you might want to give yourself a wipe down when there are no showers (or the water is too darn cold!)
- Optional: face cleansing wipes

Nail clippers

- Definitely a shareable item and only needed for longer treks

Hand sanitizer

- A good idea because many tea houses don’t have soap and during cold nights at higher elevation the water can freeze

Quick dry towel

- Potentially sharable, and only if you’re planning to shower
- Keep it small and light

Taking a stop alongside yaks on the EBC Trek

Optional Items

Power bank/portable charger

- Can be a good idea for longer and remote treks
- Some tea houses do not have electricity and in the mountains it is not uncommon for the power goes out
- Most tea houses require a small fee (in Nepali rupees) to charge your power bank in the dining hall
- Some trekkers have luck with a solar power bank

Travel charging adapter

- Many tea houses have charging adapters in the dining halls, but if you would like to charge a device in your room at tea houses with electricity, then you might need an adapter
- There are three main plug types in Nepal: types C, D and M
  - Plug type C is a plug with two round pins, plug type D has three round pins in a triangular pattern and plug type M also has three round pins

Cards/small games

- Trekking offers such a beautiful opportunity to disconnect from phones and have some good old-fashion fun at the tea houses
- Be careful though, your guides might never let you win a hand!

Book/e-reader

- Reading is a nice pastime in the mountains during the afternoons and evenings
- Keep it light though, you likely won’t be reading 17 books on your week-long trek!

Journal

- You might like a small journal to document your experience

Save plastic bags for garbage

- It would be awesome if you planned to pack out your garbage!
- You can also use bags for wet items or use them to protect your items against rain

Bathing suit

- Only pack if your trekking itinerary includes a stop at hot springs
- Many trekkers choose to leave the bathing suit behind and instead go into the hot springs in shorts, leggings, bras and t-shirts
- Most lakes along the trekking routes are sacred and it is not appropriate to swim in them – ask your guide to be sure

Snacks

- Bring your favourites for an extra boost throughout the day or a little something while you wait for dinner
- We recommend things like nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate as snacks for trekking in Nepal
- Some items can be purchased along the route such as chips, chocolate and cookies

Earplugs & eye mask