Can I rent altitude gear instead of buying?

Yes, many mountain towns rent technical gear like sleeping bags, jackets, and boots. Rental typically costs 10-15% of purchase price per day. Good option for one-time trips, but buy basics like base layers and sun protection.

How much extra should I pack for altitude?

Pack as if the weather forecast is wrong. Bring one extra insulation layer, double the expected sun protection, and 50% more water capacity than you think you need. Weather is more unpredictable at altitude.

What's the most important thing people forget?

Lip protection. Your lips have no melanin and will crack and blister badly at altitude. Pack SPF 30+ lip balm and reapply every 30 minutes in direct sun.

Do I need different gear for different altitudes?

Above 8,000 feet, pack for altitude sickness risk. Above 14,000 feet, pack for potential life-threatening conditions. The gear intensity scales with elevation and remoteness from help.

How to Pack for High-Altitude Destinations

Pack layers for extreme temperature swings, bring sun protection stronger than you think you need, and carry altitude sickness medication. The key is preparing for intense UV, unpredictable weather, and your body's adjustment to thin air.

Pack UV protection gear first. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, glacier glasses (UV400 minimum), and a wide-brimmed hat. UV radiation increases 10-12% for every 1,000 feet of elevation. At 10,000+ feet, you'll burn in 15 minutes without protection.
Build a layering system. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and a waterproof shell. Temperatures can swing 40-50°F between day and night at altitude. Avoid cotton completely—it kills when wet and cold.
Bring altitude medication. Pack acetazolamide (Diamox) if traveling above 8,000 feet. Get a prescription before you go. Also bring ibuprofen for headaches and electrolyte packets for hydration support.
Pack extra water capacity. Bring water bottles totaling at least 3-4 liters capacity. You lose moisture faster through breathing at altitude and need to drink 1.5-2x more water than at sea level. Include water purification tablets as backup.
Choose insulation for sleeping. Bring a sleeping bag rated 10-15°F below expected nighttime lows. High-altitude nights are brutal. Pack an insulated sleeping pad with R-value 4+ to prevent heat loss to the ground.
Add emergency gear. Pack a headlamp with extra batteries, emergency whistle, basic first aid supplies, and emergency shelter (space blanket minimum). Weather changes fast at altitude and help may be far away.

Can I rent altitude gear instead of buying?: Yes, many mountain towns rent technical gear like sleeping bags, jackets, and boots. Rental typically costs 10-15% of purchase price per day. Good option for one-time trips, but buy basics like base layers and sun protection.
How much extra should I pack for altitude?: Pack as if the weather forecast is wrong. Bring one extra insulation layer, double the expected sun protection, and 50% more water capacity than you think you need. Weather is more unpredictable at altitude.
What's the most important thing people forget?: Lip protection. Your lips have no melanin and will crack and blister badly at altitude. Pack SPF 30+ lip balm and reapply every 30 minutes in direct sun.
Do I need different gear for different altitudes?: Above 8,000 feet, pack for altitude sickness risk. Above 14,000 feet, pack for potential life-threatening conditions. The gear intensity scales with elevation and remoteness from help.