Ultimate Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek

Looking around for Ultimate Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek? Follow a simple rule: Pack lightly, Pack wisely.

Everest Base Camp is a dream place to reach for many adventurers. Thus, just like you, many avid travelers plan to visit Everest Base Camp, the base camp of the world’s tallest peak, Mt Everest.

While planning the visit, Everest Base Camp Packing List is an important thing to consider. You must know what to pack for the trip before hitting the road. Missing out on essential things can make your trip flawed. At the same time, you are well saved if you have all the items on your back.

We know, thus, you’ve been looking for the Everest Base Camp Packing list. Therefore, you happen to arrive here. But now you do not have to look further. The article you are currently going through is a detailed Everest Base Camp Packing List blog. It is a comprehensive blog that answers all the information regarding the Everest Base Camp kit list.

While writing this blog, we consulted with expert trekkers and sherpa guides who have visited the place many times. Only they can genuinely say what to pack for Everest Base Camp Trek. So what you are about to read is coming straight out of authentic Everest Base Camp experiences.

You already know how amazing it is to reach Everest Base Camp. The journey is one of the best walks in the world. Therefore, you surely would like to get the most out of the trip.

However, that is possible only if you pack right. You should have sturdy and cozy shoes, a warm-down jacket, sunscreen, and many more. What else do you need? Let’s get into it.

Coming to trek the Everest Base Camp requires a good deal of packing and physical preparation. You need to make sure that you’re physically, emotionally and mentally ready for the trek that could run for up to two weeks. You also need to gather all the items and gears that you’ll need during the trek.

Ultimate Packing list for Everest Base Camp Trek

Are you wondering what to pack on your Everest Base Camp trek? Well, there are a few guidelines that will help you decide what essential items you can’t skip and what things you might forego bringing. When packing, consider the following:

Dress in layers.

The first few days of the trek can be warm enough to trek in shorts and light shirts, but mornings and nights are colder. Dress in two to three layers so, your body can easily regulate the temperature and adjust as needed. Pick clothes that you can just zip on and off as the temperature changes.

Inner Layer

The inner layer is the clothing you wear next to the skin. It provides your body warmth in the high and cold areas of the trek. That means you will wear this layer only after reaching the higher parts. While trekking in the lower regions, your body doesn’t need that much warmth. So pack an excellent inner layer for the cold days of the trek.

While choosing an inner layer set, look for comfort, fit, and material. It should fit your skin comfortably without causing itchiness. The next thing you should look out for is the material. The base layers are made of materials like synthetic fibers or wool. These materials are good at absorbing moisture. Hence, choose an inner layer set that can keep your skin dry and warm.

Insulation Layers

The insulation layer is worn outside the base layer. Generally, you get fleece clothes for this layer. The layer keeps body heat and protects your body from cold. The thicker the insulation layers, the warmness you will get. Yet, do not look for thick fleece jackets. Instead, look for light and thick insulating layers that can provide warmth.

You can get insulation layers for both your torso and leg parts. However, having an insulation layer for your leg parts is not necessary. If you have a warm, lightweight fleece jacket, that is enough as an insulation layer. Search for breathable fleece layers.

Outer Layers

This is the outermost layer of all three clothing layers. It is a hard shell that protects your body from extreme cold and weather in high areas. Waterproof jackets and trousers, down jackets are some examples of outer layers. You’ll use lightweight and breathable outer layers while trekking. At the same time, you will wear warm down jackets in the cold places of the trek.

A good pair of the outer layer is a good investment. It will work for the Everest Base Camp Packing list and others. Therefore, go for good outer layers. A warm-down jacket, windproof light windshield jacket, and waterproof trekking pants are

You can purchase numerous trekking gear in Kathmandu.

It’s a great idea to spend a day in Kathmandu looking at shops to see what else you might need during the trek but forgot to bring. You may have to compromise with unknown local brands so check the stitching and sturdiness of the gear.

Your porter will carry most of your things in the duffel bag and he will go ahead to the next tea house. Make sure to pack all trekking essentials into your daypack like water and purification tablets, sunblock, spare jacket and camera, and batteries. You will only be able to access the rest of your things when you’ve reached the next tea house.

Ask ahead to rent sleeping bags and duffel bags to avoid unnecessary expense.

Mosaic Adventure offers sleeping bags, jacket, and duffel bags on rent to save money. Bringing over more stuff and buying brand new equipment can make your trip more expensive.

You can purchase other essentials at teahouses and stores in Namche Bazaar during your ascent but they also get expensive the higher you go.

Now here’s the ultimate packing list for Everest Base Camp Trek for your reference.

Clothing

Clothing is a core part of the Everest Base Camp Trek Packing list. You must have some clothes to help you deal with the conditions of the trek. As you might know, Everest Base Camp Trek is a long and high-altitude trek. The elevation of the tour ranges from 2,800 m to 5,600 m. Also, you will spend several weeks in the subalpine region(above 3,000 m). Multiple layers of clothing will be necessary. Therefore, you need specific clothes to help you cope with the conditions.

You need to dress as comfortably as you can during the trek to make the most of your experience. If you plan to trek on the months of March to April and September-October, light cotton shirt and shorts will do at lower altitude. However, the temperature drops as you climb up, so make sure to wear something for the colder temperatures. Dress in layers so you can just take one layer on or off as needed.

→ 2 base layer shirts (long sleeves)

→ 2 trekking shirts (short sleeves)

→ 2 pairs of trekking pants

→ Fleece or down jacket

→ Fleece pants

→ Sweatshirts

→ Shorts

→ Rain-proof jacket and pants

→ Winter hat/ peak hat

→ Gloves or mittens

→ Disposable underwear

Note: even in the warmer months of April /May the weather can be extreme at the higher altitudes, so make sure you have suitably insulated coat  (such as the one shown), gloves, and headgear. You can rent a down jacket from us.

Headwear

You need some clothing and wear for your head on the Everest Base Camp visit. They are as below:

Sun Hat or Cap

A wide sun hat covers your face, neck, and ears from the straight rays of the sun. On the walk, the sun is powerful. And the intense rays can dehydrate your body sooner. Also, you will get sunburned badly. Hence, get a wide round cap or at least a sun cap for the trek.

Sunglasses

When the sun is too intense, you will need some eye coverage. The strong UV rays and the fierce sun are unsuitable for your eyes. Hence, don’t forget to carry UV-protected sunglasses. You can also have extra sunglasses for loss and wear & tear situations.

Bandana or Scarfs

Bandanas or scarves are for protecting your head, mouth, nose, or others on dusty trails. Not only that, but they provide warmth.

Beanies or Woolen Cap

Your head needs protection against cold in higher places. And it is freezing in the morning and night hours. So you need something woolen for your head. A woolen cap or beanie will keep your head and ear warm and protected.

Headlamp

You have to trek early in the morning or late in the evening sometimes. Sadly, the region does not have any lights for such situations. You have to carry light for yourself. A headlamp with extra batteries will be enough for the dark times of the trek.

Buff or Neck Gaiter

You need to find something for your neck when everything else is covered. A buff or neck gaiter is the perfect clothing. It keeps your neck warm and can help you protect your mouth. The cold air and weather of the region can easily hit your throat and cause coughing and the common cold. But your neck is safe if you have a warm neck gaiter or buff. Hence, it is essential to gear up for the trek.

Quick list of Headwear for Everest Base Camp

• Sunhat or cap
• Sunglasses(UV)
• Woolen cap or beanie
• Headlamp
• Buff or Neck gaiter
• Scarf or Bandana

Hand-wear

Often, hands remain open in many cases. But you can’t leave them loose on the journey to Everest Base Camp. When it’s cold, the hands need protection. Otherwise, they will stop working. Thus, you need a good pair of gloves. We recommend you take two types of pairs: Inner and insulated or outer gloves.

Inner Gloves

The inner gloves are lightweight ones. The inner gloves provide medium warmth taking care of your hands in the lower areas.

Outer Gloves

Outer gloves have to be waterproof, warm, and durable. It protects your hand when the weather is freezing. The temperature in the high areas is cold, mainly during night hours. Hence, a good pair of insulated outer gloves will keep your hand warm and working.

Footwear

Footwear is one of the noteworthy mentions of the Everest Base Camp Packing List. Your feet will take you to Everest Base Camp. Hence, you need some excellent companions for your feet. To avoid undue comfort and blister breakout, break in your hiking boots months away from the trek. You might also want to bring spare tennis shoes, but the ideal footwear is mid to high-cut hiking boots because they provide ankle support and protect your feet when crossing the river.

Hiking Boots

A sturdy and comfortable pair of hiking boots is a blessing for the trek. The hiking boots will help you complete the walk without hurting your feet. If your pair of hiking boots are not good, you might have a hard and long walk. You have to walk all types of terrain on the walk with forested trails, rough terrains, glacier moraine, and iced paths. Hence, get yourself a good hiking boot. The features to look out for are light, waterproof, comfortable, and sturdy.

Hiking Socks

Good hiking socks are breathable and moisture-absorbing. The merino wool-made socks are better at absorbing when compared to cotton. Merino wool also is not that stinky after usage. Hence, get yourself 3-4 pairs of merino wool-made hiking socks.

Warm Thermal Socks

The thermal socks are a bit thicker than regular hiking socks. Hiking socks does not work well in high and colder places. The thick and warm thermal socks come to play in such sites. Therefore, bring one warm pair of thermal socks.

Gaiters

Gaiters save things to get into your boots. You will have a dusty and rough walk on a long trek like Everest Base Camp Trek. And there will be times when mud and rocks may enter your shoes. Gaiters can help you out with that. Although not so compulsory, the gear is not a burden in a backpack.

Slippers or Flip Flops

You should allow your feet to breathe when you are off the trail. Slippers or flip-flops are suitable for that purpose. You can use the slippers while rambling inside and around teahouses or lodges.

Quick list of footwear for Everest Base Camp Trek

• • • Broke-in hiking boots
    • Tennis shoes (optional)
    • Flip flops (to use in tea houses)
    • Thick Socks

Accessories

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are true saviours in long walks. It simply reduces impacts on your body and makes it easy to walk. However, trekking poles are not compulsory. The walks are possible otherwise, too. It’s your call. If you are used to trekking poles, you can carry them.

Sleeping Bag

You will get a bed and clothes like blankets in lodges of the trek. However, you can bring your sleeping bag for your convenience. Some people may not like to use the hotel blankets, although they are clean. And sometimes the weather may get freezing. For such reasons, a sleeping bag is suggested. A sleeping bag(-15 degrees) is better for Everest Base Camp.

Water Bottle

Carry reusable water bottles for the Everest Base Camp Trek. You can carry hot and cold water in these water bottles. Find an excellent reusable bottle(32 oz or so) from the market and have it on your back. You will refill your bottle whenever possible and can remain hydrated on the trek.

Ziploc Plastic Bags

On the trek, you will have wet socks, pants, or other things. For such wet things, you can use ziplock plastic bags. It will separate wet stuff from others.

Bags and Backpacks

The type of backpacks you need for the Everest Base Camp tour depends on whether you are using a porter or not. If you plan to have a porter, you can have a duffle bag. Whereas, if you carry everything, you will need a good backpack.

Duffel Bag

The Duffel Bag is perfect for the trek that porters help. You can use a duffel bag to keep all your belongings in one place. And the porter will carry your backpack wherever you go. Make sure you have a lockable, durable, and waterproof duffel bag.

Backpack

A 50-60L hiking backpack can be handy if you carry it all on your back. The hiking bag is made for walks like Everest Base Camp. You can have all your things in one backpack. Hence, buy a backpack as per the number of items you carry on the trek.

Day Backpack

Use a daypack to carry your daily essentials like sunblock, camera, snacks, water, and poncho. However, stash the rest in the larger duffel bag which your porter will carry ahead to the next tea house.

A day backpack is suggested only if you plan to have a porter on the trek. While your porter will carry your heavy bag, you can take daily essentials on this day backpack. You can carry chargers, gadgets, chocolates, dry fruits, etc., with you. No need to call the porter every time.

Medicine

You may or may not have to deal with altitude sickness, along with the risks of diarrhea, headaches, and body pain during the trek so it pays to bring some medicines with you.

First Aid Kit

Usually, a trekking agency carries a first aid kit on treks. But you can have your own if you like. If you want to trek voluntarily, a first aid kit is necessary.

• • • Personal prescriptions
    • Ibuprofen
    • Medical tape (in case of blisters)
    • Diamox (in case of altitude sickness)
    • Antibiotics (in case of diarrhea)

Water Purification

You might not feel the tap drinking water of the region is safe. But you can use water purification tablets and drink the water safely. It can purify tap water. Hence, if you want to use tap water but are afraid of it, you should carry water purification tablets.

Water purification tools– plastic bottles are discouraged because they add litter. Water purification tools are cheaper, portable and reduce your travel plastics.

Oximeter

An oximeter is a proper kit to have with you on a trek. It measures your blood oxygen level. You can quickly check your hydration and oxygen level while trekking. In that way, you can avoid altitude sickness.

Lip Balm

Your lips can remain dry on the trek. Pack a lip balm to keep your lips moist and safe against the cold.

Toiletries

Towel

Carry a lightweight and quick-drying towel on the trek. You can use the towel on and off the trail at various trek walks. Instead of using a public towel, you will have your towel.

Sunscreen

The sun will be brutal on you on the trek. But you can use sunscreen to keep the intense rays off your face and skin. Also, you will avoid sunburn due to the sun. An excellent waterproof sunscreen is enough for the trek.

Wet Wipes

Wet wipes help clear all the dust off your face and skin. It also works as a sanitizer and keeps you hygienic on the trek. Or you can simply use wet wipes to refresh yourself.

Hand Sanitizers

You cannot wash your hands every time on the trek. A hand sanitizer is your instant disinfectant product. You can avoid germs by using 2-3 drops of hand sanitizer.

Pee Funnel

A toilet may not always be there when you require one. But you can have a pee funnel for emergencies. When you have a pee funnel, you do not have to find a toilet every time. It is more helpful to ladies.

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper may not be available along the trail. Hence, pack toilet paper when you are in town. It can be used on multiple occasions. Two rolls will be enough for the Everest Base Camp Packing list.

Sanitary Pads or Tampons

Female toiletries like sanitary pads are also not always buyable along the trek. You can stay relaxed by having enough of such items for yourself.

Miscellaneous

Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and conditioner are elemental. You will indeed have these in your backpack. Nail clippers, razors, and other personal grooming essentials are also suggested.

• Soap
• Deodorant
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Mouthwash
• Sanitary napkins/ tampons/ panty liners
• Hairbrush
• Wet wipes
• Microfiber face towel
• Sunblock spray
• Body lotion/moisturizer
• Lip balm with SPF

Documents

Visa

You need to have a valid visa for arrival in Nepal. It is available at Kathmandu Airport as an arrival visa.

Immunization (against covid-19)

You have to be immunized and have proof that you are fully vaccinated against covid19. Only with complete immunization will you get a visa when you get to Kathmandu airport.

Passport

You must carry your original passport, valid for at least 180 days. Alongside this, you need to have some copies of your ticket for other processes.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential thing for trekking in Nepal. You should insure against all the emergencies that can happen on a trek. Without travel insurance, you cannot get trekking permits.

Miscellaneous Items

Camera

If you are a shutterbug, you must have a camera on your Everest Base Camp Packing list. The trek has the best sites where you can capture breathtaking pictures.  Bring spare batteries, memory cards, and tripod as required. You can charge in tea houses, but expect the charging cost to become more expensive as you go up. Bring a power-bank with a huge capacity to charge your electronics during the trek.

Power Banks

A power bank can store power for emergency usage. It is a handful of objects to have in your backpack. When there is no power supply, you can charge your things.

Journal and Pen

If you like to write about things you experience, you should have a journal and pen. The trek will give you many stories that can influence your writing.

Cards and Books

Cards and books can be good friends when you are off the trail. You can play cards for fun with friends. Or you can read your favorite books in your favorite place.

Money

There are ATMs in Namche Bazaar but you can’t always count on them working. Bring your own cash to purchase souvenirs, snacks, beverages and other essentials along the way

Thermal flask

To keep warm drinks from freezing in the bottle on the highest days.

At Last

The above is the complete Everest Base Camp packing list. Some of the items are optional, whereas most of them are essential. We hope you now know how to backpack for Everest Base Camp. Pack all the important things and have a wonderful experience.

We might be one if you are looking for a well-managed and experienced trekking agency. Our professional team will ensure you have a good time in the Everest Region.

Kindly let us know, through comment below, if we missed anything!