Can I buy gear in Kathmandu instead of bringing it?

Yes for most items. Kathmandu has excellent gear shops with both authentic and knockoff brands. Quality varies widely. Rental is often better value for expensive items like down jackets and sleeping bags.

How much should my pack weigh?

Keep your daypack under 10kg. Porters carry main bags up to 15kg maximum. If hiring a porter, split gear between daypack essentials and main bag items you won't need during the day.

What about charging electronics at altitude?

Bring a portable battery bank (20,000mAh minimum). Solar chargers work but are unreliable above 4,000m due to weather. Some teahouses have charging for $2-5 per device but power is inconsistent.

Do I need crampons or ice axe for Base Camp?

No technical gear needed for standard Base Camp trek. Microspikes or lightweight crampons can help in icy conditions but aren't essential. The route is a hiking trail, not a technical climb.

How to pack for Everest Base Camp trek

Pack in layers with a focus on warmth, waterproofing, and weight management. Essential items include a -15°C sleeping bag, insulated jacket, waterproof shell, trekking boots, and high-altitude gear. Total pack weight should stay under 15kg including personal items.

Choose your base layer system. Pack 2 merino wool base layer sets (top and bottom). Avoid cotton completely. Add 1 synthetic insulation layer like a fleece or synthetic puffy jacket for active warmth.
Pack your insulation layers. Bring one down jacket rated for temperatures below -15°C. Pack it in a compression sack to save space. Add a synthetic insulated vest as backup warmth that works when wet.
Waterproof shell system. Pack a hardshell jacket and pants with full side zips. Must be waterproof and breathable with sealed seams. This is your protection against high-altitude weather.
Footwear selection. Bring insulated mountaineering boots rated to -40°C, broken in completely. Pack gaiters to keep snow out. Bring camp shoes (down booties or insulated slippers) for hut comfort.
Sleeping system. Pack a sleeping bag rated to -15°C minimum, -25°C preferred. Bring a closed-cell foam pad plus an inflatable sleeping pad with R-value of 5+ for insulation from frozen ground.
High-altitude essentials. Pack glacier glasses (Category 4), high SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, headlamp with extra batteries, water bottles (not hydration bladders that freeze), and water purification tablets.
Medical and emergency gear. Bring altitude sickness medication (consult doctor first), basic first aid kit, emergency whistle, and backup headlamp. Pack all medications in original containers with prescriptions.

Can I buy gear in Kathmandu instead of bringing it?: Yes for most items. Kathmandu has excellent gear shops with both authentic and knockoff brands. Quality varies widely. Rental is often better value for expensive items like down jackets and sleeping bags.
How much should my pack weigh?: Keep your daypack under 10kg. Porters carry main bags up to 15kg maximum. If hiring a porter, split gear between daypack essentials and main bag items you won't need during the day.
What about charging electronics at altitude?: Bring a portable battery bank (20,000mAh minimum). Solar chargers work but are unreliable above 4,000m due to weather. Some teahouses have charging for $2-5 per device but power is inconsistent.
Do I need crampons or ice axe for Base Camp?: No technical gear needed for standard Base Camp trek. Microspikes or lightweight crampons can help in icy conditions but aren't essential. The route is a hiking trail, not a technical climb.