Complete Nepal Trek Packing List (2025)

# Complete Nepal Trek Packing List (2025)

Packing for a Nepal trek is about layers, weight and renting locally. Here is the complete packing list used by our team and thousands of trekkers on the Everest, Annapurna and Manaslu circuits.

## Clothing (Layering System)

A Himalayan layering system has four layers:

1. **Base layer** — merino wool thermal top and bottom. Wicks sweat, stays warm when damp.
2. **Mid layer** — 200-weight fleece. Traps warm air.
3. **Insulation** — 800-fill down jacket rated to -20°C.
4. **Shell** — waterproof breathable rain jacket with taped seams.

Add trekking trousers (not jeans), a warm beanie, a UV sun hat, and insulated waterproof gloves.

## Sleeping

– Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (teahouse rooms are unheated at altitude)
– Inflatable mattress R-3 or higher (teahouse foam is thin)
– Sleep liner (optional)

## Backpack

– 90L waterproof duffel (the porter bag)
– 25L daypack (you carry water, snacks, camera, shell, valuables)

## Accessories

– Trekking poles (save your knees on descents)
– Headlamp (for pre-dawn starts like Kala Patthi and Poon Hill)
– Category 4 UV sunglasses (prevent snow blindness)
– Water filter bottle (safe tap water, less plastic)
– First aid kit (blisters, stomach, altitude basics)
– Sunscreen SPF50 and lip balm

## What to Rent vs Buy in Nepal

Rent in Kathmandu or Pokhara: down jacket, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, trekking poles, duffel bag, tent. These are bulky to fly and you only need them for the trek.

Bring from home: broken-in trekking boots, base layers, comfortable trousers, camera, personal medications.

## Final Tip

Reserve your rental gear 3–5 days before your trek and have it delivered to your hotel. This leaves your arrival day free for permits and a final gear check.