What altitude counts as 'high altitude' for packing purposes?

Above 8,000 feet you need to pack for altitude effects. Above 10,000 feet requires serious preparation. Above 14,000 feet demands expedition-level gear and preparation.

Can I buy high-altitude gear at my destination?

Major mountain towns like Chamonix, Kathmandu, and Cusco have good gear shops, but expect limited selection and higher prices. Critical items like properly fitting boots should be bought and broken in before travel.

How much extra water capacity do I need?

Plan for 3-4 liters per day at altitude versus 2 liters at sea level. Bring insulated bottles that won't freeze. Dehydration happens faster and altitude sickness gets worse when dehydrated.

Should I pack cotton clothing for high altitude?

Never pack cotton for high altitude. Cotton kills when wet and stays wet longer in cold, dry mountain air. Stick to merino wool and synthetic materials that wick moisture and insulate when damp.

How to pack for high altitude travel

Pack layers for extreme temperature swings, sun protection for intense UV exposure, and items to manage altitude sickness. Focus on moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and windproof outer shells. Bring extra water capacity and electrolyte supplements.

Start with a layering system. Pack 2-3 moisture-wicking base layers (merino wool or synthetic), 1-2 insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and 1 windproof/waterproof outer shell. Temperatures can swing 40-50°F between day and night at altitude.
Pack serious sun protection. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, glacier glasses or high-UV sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and lip balm with SPF. UV exposure increases 4% for every 1,000 feet of elevation. Snow and rock reflect additional UV.
Bring altitude sickness management. Pack acetazolamide (Diamox) if prescribed by your doctor, ibuprofen for headaches, electrolyte tablets, and extra water bottles. Plan for 3-4 liters of water daily at elevation.
Add cold weather extremities gear. Pack insulated gloves plus liner gloves, warm wool socks (bring extras), and insulated boots rated for expected temperatures. Your extremities lose heat fastest at altitude.
Include breathing and sleep aids. Bring nasal strips for easier breathing, a humidifier or wet towel for dry air, and a sleeping bag rated 10°F below expected nighttime lows. Sleep quality drops significantly above 8,000 feet.

What altitude counts as 'high altitude' for packing purposes?: Above 8,000 feet you need to pack for altitude effects. Above 10,000 feet requires serious preparation. Above 14,000 feet demands expedition-level gear and preparation.
Can I buy high-altitude gear at my destination?: Major mountain towns like Chamonix, Kathmandu, and Cusco have good gear shops, but expect limited selection and higher prices. Critical items like properly fitting boots should be bought and broken in before travel.
How much extra water capacity do I need?: Plan for 3-4 liters per day at altitude versus 2 liters at sea level. Bring insulated bottles that won't freeze. Dehydration happens faster and altitude sickness gets worse when dehydrated.
Should I pack cotton clothing for high altitude?: Never pack cotton for high altitude. Cotton kills when wet and stays wet longer in cold, dry mountain air. Stick to merino wool and synthetic materials that wick moisture and insulate when damp.