Can I buy gear in Kathmandu?

Yes, there are endless shops in Thamel for down jackets and sleeping bags, but check the zippers and seams carefully as quality varies.

If you want to enjoy the trek and keep your heart rate lower, yes. A porter costs roughly 20-25 dollars per day and will carry your duffel, leaving you with only your daypack.

How do I handle laundry?

Laundry is difficult and expensive on the trail. Plan to bring enough clean socks and underwear for the entire duration, or use biodegradable soap to hand-wash items in a sink in Namche Bazaar.

How to pack for the Everest Base Camp Trek

Pack using the three-layer system to handle temperature swings from 20°C in the valleys to -15°C at night. Keep your total pack weight under 10kg for your daypack and aim for a strict 15kg limit for the duffel carried by your porter.

Layering System. Bring a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool), an insulating mid-layer (down jacket rated to -20°C), and a windproof/waterproof outer shell. Do not bring cotton; it stays wet and makes you cold.
Footwear Strategy. Break in waterproof leather or synthetic trekking boots at least 50km before you arrive. Pack three pairs of heavy-duty wool trekking socks to rotate.
Sleeping Gear. Bring a four-season sleeping bag rated to at least -15°C. Teahouses provide thin blankets, but they aren't enough at elevations above 4,000 meters.
Sanitation and Health. Carry a personal first-aid kit with Diamox (for altitude), blister tape (Compeed), rehydration salts, and water purification tablets or a high-quality filter like a Katadyn BeFree.

Can I buy gear in Kathmandu?: Yes, there are endless shops in Thamel for down jackets and sleeping bags, but check the zippers and seams carefully as quality varies.
Do I need a porter?: If you want to enjoy the trek and keep your heart rate lower, yes. A porter costs roughly 20-25 dollars per day and will carry your duffel, leaving you with only your daypack.
How do I handle laundry?: Laundry is difficult and expensive on the trail. Plan to bring enough clean socks and underwear for the entire duration, or use biodegradable soap to hand-wash items in a sink in Namche Bazaar.