Do I really need a -15°C sleeping bag?

Yes. Even if it's summer, mountain temperatures drop well below freezing at night, and teahouses or tents provide minimal insulation.

How do I keep my electronics alive?

Keep your phone and camera batteries inside your sleeping bag at night. Never leave them in your pack, or the cold will drain them completely.

Essential Gear for High-Altitude Trekking

To survive high-altitude trekking, you need a modular layering system and specialized sun protection. Stick to a total pack weight of under 12kg to mitigate the effects of thin air.

Master the layering system. Wear a moisture-wicking synthetic base layer, a merino wool mid-layer for warmth, and a high-loft down jacket (at least 800-fill) for when you stop moving. Always carry a 3-layer GORE-TEX hardshell jacket to block wind and snow.
Protect your eyes and skin. At high altitudes, UV radiation is significantly stronger. Bring Category 4 polarized sunglasses to prevent snow blindness and SPF 50 sunscreen. Reapply every 2 hours.
Choose your footwear. Wear stiff-soled, waterproof hiking boots that are broken in for at least 50km before the trip. Bring at least three pairs of thick, wool-blend trekking socks to prevent blisters.
Manage your hydration. Use insulated water bottles, not bladders. Hoses on hydration bladders will freeze at temperatures below zero, cutting off your water supply.

Do I really need a -15°C sleeping bag?: Yes. Even if it's summer, mountain temperatures drop well below freezing at night, and teahouses or tents provide minimal insulation.
How do I keep my electronics alive?: Keep your phone and camera batteries inside your sleeping bag at night. Never leave them in your pack, or the cold will drain them completely.