How much warmer should my sleeping bag be rated than expected temperatures?

Rate your bag 10-15°F warmer than the lowest expected temperature. A 0°F bag for 15°F nights accounts for altitude making you feel colder.

Can I buy altitude gear in Andean cities?

Yes, but selection is limited and quality varies. Cusco, La Paz, and Quito have outdoor gear shops, but expect to pay 30-50% more than home prices.

How many layers should I be able to put on?

Plan for 4-5 layers total: base layer, light insulation, heavy insulation, soft shell, hard shell. You should be able to strip down to base layer in full sun.

Do I need special water treatment at altitude?

Yes, boiling point drops to 185°F at 14,000 feet, so water doesn't get hot enough to kill all pathogens. Use purification tablets or a reliable filter.

How to Pack for High-Altitude Travel in the Andes

Pack in layers for extreme temperature swings, bring sun protection for intense UV at altitude, and include altitude sickness medication. Your gear needs to handle everything from blazing sun to freezing nights, often in the same day.

Start with a layering system. Pack base layers (merino wool or synthetic), insulating layers (fleece or down), and weatherproof outer shells. Temperatures can drop 40°F between day and night at altitude.
Pack for intense UV exposure. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, glacier glasses (category 4), a wide-brimmed hat, and lip balm with SPF. UV radiation increases 4% for every 1,000 feet of elevation.
Include altitude medication. Pack acetazolamide (Diamox) if prescribed by your doctor, plus ibuprofen for headaches. Bring twice as much as you think you'll need.
Choose the right footwear. Pack broken-in hiking boots rated for the terrain you'll face, plus camp shoes for evenings. Bring gaiters to keep rocks and snow out of boots.
Add high-altitude specific gear. Include a warm sleeping bag rated 10-15°F below expected temperatures, a water bottle that won't freeze, and electrolyte supplements for hydration.

How much warmer should my sleeping bag be rated than expected temperatures?: Rate your bag 10-15°F warmer than the lowest expected temperature. A 0°F bag for 15°F nights accounts for altitude making you feel colder.
Can I buy altitude gear in Andean cities?: Yes, but selection is limited and quality varies. Cusco, La Paz, and Quito have outdoor gear shops, but expect to pay 30-50% more than home prices.
How many layers should I be able to put on?: Plan for 4-5 layers total: base layer, light insulation, heavy insulation, soft shell, hard shell. You should be able to strip down to base layer in full sun.
Do I need special water treatment at altitude?: Yes, boiling point drops to 185°F at 14,000 feet, so water doesn't get hot enough to kill all pathogens. Use purification tablets or a reliable filter.