Can I really buy good gear in Kathmandu?

Yes. Thamel district has dozens of gear shops with real and replica brands. North Face, Patagonia, and other major brands have official stores. Replicas are obvious but functional for 1/3 the price.

What if my gear fails on the trek?

Namche Bazaar has basic gear shops for emergency replacements. Bring duct tape and safety pins for field repairs. Most tea houses have needle and thread if needed.

Do I need crampons for Everest Base Camp?

No. The standard EBC trek doesn't require technical climbing gear. Microspikes or yaktrax are useful in icy conditions but not essential. Save your money for proper boots instead.

How much should my pack weigh?

Target 12-15kg (26-33 lbs) maximum. Porters carry main bags, you carry daypack with water, snacks, camera, extra layer. If hiring a porter, your main bag can be up to 15kg.

What gear do I need for Everest Base Camp trek

You need four-season trekking gear rated for temperatures down to -20°C including insulated boots, down jacket, sleeping bag rated to -15°C, and layering system. Most gear can be bought or rented in Kathmandu, but bring your own boots and base layers for proper fit.

Start with the big four. Get your sleeping bag (-15°C rated), down jacket (800+ fill power), trekking boots (insulated, ankle support), and rain gear first. These are non-negotiable and take the most research time.
Build your layering system. Pack 2 merino wool base layers, 1 insulating mid-layer (fleece or synthetic), 1 down jacket, 1 hardshell jacket. Avoid cotton completely. Test this system before you go.
Get the altitude essentials. Pack sunglasses (glacier glasses), SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, headlamp with extra batteries. UV exposure at 17,000+ feet is intense.
Sort your feet and hands. Bring liner gloves, insulated gloves, liner socks, wool hiking socks, gaiters. Your extremities get cold first at altitude.
Decide: buy in Kathmandu or bring from home. Boots, base layers, and personal items: bring from home for fit. Down jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles: can buy/rent in Thamel district for 30-50% less than home prices.

Can I really buy good gear in Kathmandu?: Yes. Thamel district has dozens of gear shops with real and replica brands. North Face, Patagonia, and other major brands have official stores. Replicas are obvious but functional for 1/3 the price.
What if my gear fails on the trek?: Namche Bazaar has basic gear shops for emergency replacements. Bring duct tape and safety pins for field repairs. Most tea houses have needle and thread if needed.
Do I need crampons for Everest Base Camp?: No. The standard EBC trek doesn't require technical climbing gear. Microspikes or yaktrax are useful in icy conditions but not essential. Save your money for proper boots instead.
How much should my pack weigh?: Target 12-15kg (26-33 lbs) maximum. Porters carry main bags, you carry daypack with water, snacks, camera, extra layer. If hiring a porter, your main bag can be up to 15kg.