Hey Trekkers,
Now is the time to talk about packing because it can make or mar your high-altitude expedition. We’ve all been there (ngl, me too): standing over a half-zipped duffel, wondering if that third pair of thermal socks is a need or a security blanket. Let me tell you it’s both (need and security)!
Before we delve deep into knowing what to pack for high-altitude treks, you must know that packing for high altitude is all about striking that sweet spot between being prepared and not hauling your entire wardrobe up a mountain.
So, before you turn your living room into a gear shop, here’s a quick guide on what to invest in vs. what to rent by Caroline Leon (me). (And I am not gonna miss this chance to introduce myself. I am Caroline Leon, an Australian climber who set a Guinness World Record by becoming the first woman in the world to summit the Volcanic Seven Summits in the fastest time in 2023.
You Should Always Invest In
When it comes to high-altitude adventures, there are some items that you just can’t rent or borrow from a friend. You must invest in those gears to ensure maximum comfort during the climb. Here are the gears you should always invest in:
1. Boots That Love Your Feet.
Your boots can be your best friends or worst enemies out there, depending on what you choose. To ensure a comfortable climb, make sure you always get your own shoes, break them in, and make sure they fit perfectly. There is simply no substitute for boots that have softened at the right spots and have moulded to your stride. Rentals may look fine on the rack, but you may not feel good wearing them during your expedition.
2. Base Layers.
You will be living in base layers, day, night, and every step in between. So, make sure you choose wisely. You can consider merino wool or high-quality moisture-wicking synthetics, as they are soft, breathable, and built to trap precious body heat while moving sweat away. These fabrics are all about comfort, warmth, and zero stink. Invest in a couple of high-quality sets so that you can rotate, and you will thank yourself every morning!
3. Down Jacket.
A down jacket is basically your wearable sleeping bag that makes icy mornings and wind-whipped summits actually bearable. A good down jacket is worth every penny. These jackets are lightweight, insanely warm, and built to pack down small. It’s a piece of fabric that you will reach for at sunrise, around campfires, and every time the temperature falls suddenly. Just make sure you invest in quality down with solid fill power and a durable shell to enjoy all these perks!
4. Sunglasses & Gloves.
These are small gears, but you can imagine your summit expedition without any of these. They are your first defence against brutal elements. The right pair of glacier-rated sunglasses shields your eyes from blinding reflection and high-altitude UV. After all, snow blindness is not something you would love to brag about, but it is a misery in real time. Gloves are your lifeline in the mountains, so go for a pair that offers warmth and good grip while climbing.
5. Toiletry
Your toiletry kit should include only the basics since you won’t get the chance to bathe during the trek. Pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and face wash (or a multipurpose soap that can be used for both face and body). Also, carry a small moisturizer or petroleum jelly to prevent dry skin and chapped lips. Sunscreen (SPF 40+), chapstick, and toilet paper are must-haves for high-altitude treks, as most high-altitude camps have dry toilets.
6. Health and Safety
The smartest adventurers never go on high-altitude trekking without a well-prepared medical kit. And you have to be equally smart to ensure comfort up there in the mountains. Pack a compact but complete medical kit, and your future self will thank you. Your medical kit must include plasters for inevitable blisters, antiseptic cream for scrapes, pain relief tablets for those post-trek aches, and any altitude sickness medication prescribed by your healthcare provider.
7. Rain Essentials
The weather at high altitudes can change in minutes, so it’s important to be prepared for everything, including rain. To stay warm even when it’s raining, make sure to carry a poncho, as it works better than a regular raincoat because it covers both you and your backpack completely. Another thing that you must pack for high-altitude trekking is a headlamp. It will help you when moving around after dark.
8. Storage
To carry all your essentials, you should have enough storage. But that doesn’t mean you pick up the biggest backpack from your nearest store. For a one-week high-altitude trek, your main backpack should be around 55-60 litres. Along with this, you should carry a daypack (a small foldable backpack) for summit days or short walks. You can keep essentials like a water bottle, a jacket, and your first aid kit in it. Also, pack a few plastic bags or zip-locks to separate used clothes or sanitary items.
You Can Rent or Borrow
You don’t need to buy every gear for your high-altitude trekking. Some gear has limited use or can be very expensive to buy. And that’s exactly where renting or borrowing comes in. Here is the list of gears you can rent or borrow for your high-altitude trekking:
1. Sleeping Bag.
Unless you are heading into the mountains regularly, it is wiser to rent a top-quality expedition sleeping bag at the start of your trip or borrow one from an experienced friend. By renting, you can skip the hassle of maintenance, storage, and post-trip cleaning. Additionally, it lets you try out premium brands that might otherwise cost a small fortune.
2. Trekking Poles.
Easy to rent, easy to forget, and worth having. Trekking poles are your secret weapon against fatigue and knee strain, especially on steep descents when gravity becomes your biggest rival. A sturdy pair of trekking poles helps you with balance, keeps your rhythm steady, and saves your joints from unnecessary wear and tear.
3. Heavy-duty Outerwear.
If you are heading into the thin and icy air of high altitudes, you will need serious protection from the cold. However, expedition-grade outerwear (jackets, parkas, and waterproof pants) can be expensive to buy. To enjoy access to the warmth at high altitudes without spending a fortune, you can rent heavy-duty outerwear.
Items That People Often Forget/Overlook
Sometimes, even the most seasoned trekkers leave behind small but essential items. Though these items may look small, they come in handy in the mountains. Here is the list of items that people often forget:
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm (SPF 50+)
High altitudes mean stronger UV exposure even when it’s cloudy. To ensure you don’t get a sunburned face or cracked lips, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and lip balm for your high-altitude trekking.
- Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder
Staying hydrated is the key to avoiding altitude sickness. To stay hydrated in the mountains, carry a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder. Reusable items help reduce plastic waste on the trail.
- Power Bank/Solar Charger
Not many people are aware of this, but cold weather drains batteries faster. To ensure you stay connected with everyone, even when on a high-altitude trek, remember to take your power bank or solar charger on your trek.
- Snacks or Energy Bars
Most people don’t feel like eating in the mountains (it just steals our appetite). However, to continue your trekking, you have to be energetic. To keep your spirits high when trekking, pack high-calorie snacks or energy bars and munch as needed.
Pro Tip: Pack as if you’re allergic to excess weight. At 4,500 meters, even a few extra grams feel like a ton. So, focus on essentials, choose lightweight alternatives whenever possible, and remember that layering is your best friend.
Conclusion
High-altitude trekking seems exciting and adventurous until you start packing for it. You get confused about what to pack for your high-altitude trekking, as there are some things that can be rented or borrowed, while there are also some things you can’t compromise on. Some of the things you can’t rent or borrow include base layers, boots, a down jacket, sunglasses, gloves, etc.
But you can always rent sleeping bags, trekking poles, and heavy-duty outerwear, as they can be quite expensive. If you are still confused about what to carry on your high altitude trek, watch this video on packing for Everest base camp or packing for Kilimanjaro.
