Can I do laundry on the EBC trek?

Limited options above Namche Bazaar. Some teahouses offer washing for $5-8 per load but drying is difficult. Bring enough underwear and socks for the full trek, or plan to hand wash and air dry on sunny rest days.

How much should my porter duffel weigh?

Maximum 15kg (33lbs) per trekker. Porters carry for two people, so 30kg total. Pack your duffel the night before and weigh it. You'll carry day hiking essentials in your backpack.

Do I need a down jacket above 4000m?

Yes. Temperatures drop to -15°C at EBC even in good weather. A 700+ fill down jacket is essential. You can rent in Kathmandu for $2/day or buy fake ones on Thamel for $30-50, though quality varies.

What if I get my period during the trek?

Pack supplies for 3+ weeks since altitude can affect your cycle. Menstrual cups work well since disposal is limited. Bring disposal bags for used products - don't leave anything on the mountain.

How to pack gear for Everest Base Camp as a woman

Pack in layers with a 65-75L backpack, focusing on moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells. Bring a -20°C sleeping bag, sturdy trekking boots, and feminine hygiene supplies for 18-20 days. Weight should stay under 15kg including porter bag.

Choose your backpack system. Get a 65-75L backpack for day hiking plus a duffel bag for porters. Women-specific packs like Osprey Ariel or Gregory Deva fit better on female torsos. Pack your day pack with layers, water, snacks, and emergency gear. Put everything else in the porter duffel.
Layer your clothing system. Base layer: 3 moisture-wicking tops (merino wool or synthetic), 2 hiking pants, 7 pairs underwear, 7 pairs wool socks. Mid-layer: insulated jacket, fleece, 2 long-sleeve shirts. Outer layer: waterproof jacket and pants rated for mountain conditions.
Get the right footwear. Waterproof trekking boots broken in over 50+ miles, camp shoes (down booties or slip-ons), gaiters to keep snow out. Bring 1 extra pair hiking socks beyond your daily count. Test boots with thick socks before departure.
Pack sleep and shelter gear. Sleeping bag rated to -20°C (down is lighter, synthetic works when wet), sleeping pad with R-value 4+, pillow or inflatable pillow. Teahouses provide bedding but it's basic and cold at altitude.
Add female-specific items. Menstrual supplies for 3+ weeks (your cycle may change with altitude), wet wipes, pee funnel for easier bathroom stops, sports bras that work under layers, extra underwear. Pack disposal bags for hygiene products.
Include essential accessories. Sunglasses (glacier glasses above 4000m), headlamp plus spare, trekking poles, water purification tablets, first aid kit, altitude sickness medication, sunscreen SPF 50+, lip balm with SPF.

Can I do laundry on the EBC trek?: Limited options above Namche Bazaar. Some teahouses offer washing for $5-8 per load but drying is difficult. Bring enough underwear and socks for the full trek, or plan to hand wash and air dry on sunny rest days.
How much should my porter duffel weigh?: Maximum 15kg (33lbs) per trekker. Porters carry for two people, so 30kg total. Pack your duffel the night before and weigh it. You'll carry day hiking essentials in your backpack.
Do I need a down jacket above 4000m?: Yes. Temperatures drop to -15°C at EBC even in good weather. A 700+ fill down jacket is essential. You can rent in Kathmandu for $2/day or buy fake ones on Thamel for $30-50, though quality varies.
What if I get my period during the trek?: Pack supplies for 3+ weeks since altitude can affect your cycle. Menstrual cups work well since disposal is limited. Bring disposal bags for used products - don't leave anything on the mountain.