Everest Base Camp Packing List
Table of Contents
Making an Everest Base Camp packing list is one of the most important things that you need to consider if you are planning for an Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek. You don’t want to miss out on anything when packing for the trip, or it might cost you both physically and financially. additionally, you don’t want to overpack as your bags should be under a certain weight. There is no hard and fast rule for packing list for Everest Base Camp trek. You can make changes according to your personal preferences and changes in weather.
In this article, we have made a detailed Everest packing list for your convenience. This list is based on my personal experiences and encounters on the EBC trek. You can either buy the items or rent them through Himalayan Masters too. Make sure that you trek with the best travel agency and gear for a comfortable and successful trek.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek: Clothes
Packing clothes for the EBC trek fully depends on the weather or season that you are trekking ofweathern. Packing preferences can also vary according to gender, Everest Base Camp packing list male could vary from the packing list for females.
The temperature on the EBC trek can reach up to -25°C (-13°F) during winter, especially during night and at high altitudes. So, better be prepared for that. So, better be prepared for that. Here’s a packing list for Everest base camp in case of clothing.
1. Inner layer
Wearing comfortable and breathable clothes is the most important part of clothing. If you do not feel comfortable while trekking, you might not be able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. The inner layer is important during the middle of the trek, as you reach a higher altitude. For the inner layer, we recommend you pack tops made out of Merino Wool as it absorbs sweat quickly and can be worn for many days without washing it, and it does not stink either.
Tops:
- Short-Sleeve T-shirt: You can pack two or three short-sleeved T-shirts from Under Armour costing around USD 25 and Merino Wool T-shirts costing you around USD 40-45.
- Long-Sleeve T-shirt: You can also pack one or two Under Armour long-sleeve t-shirts that cost you around USD 30 or from Sonam (Nepali Brand) which costs you around 25-30 USD.
- Hoodie: You can wear a hoodie from The North Face that costs you USD 60 or a hoodie from Sonam that comes in NRS 5,490.
Bottom:
- Thermal Leggings: You can wear thermal leggings for the bottom layer from Amazon (USD 29.99) or from Sonam costing NRS 1,730 NRS 2,965.
- Sweat pants: Thick waterproof and windproof sweatpants could be a good option to keep you warm. You can get them either from Amazon which costs USD 21.20 – USD 26.99 or from Sonam which costs you the same as from Amazon.
- Soft leggings: The Everest packing list for women as well as men can also include 1 or 2 pairs of soft normal leggings for a workout.
Note: Avoid wearing cotton cloth as it produces odor after wearing it for a few days due to sweat.
2. Insulating/Middle Layer
Insulating or the middle layer is the next important thing that you need to consider while packing for Everest Base Camp trek. The material for this layer is generally made of fleece. If the weather condition is very cold, you can pack warm jackets from Kathmandu Outdoor (USD 200 – USD 280) or buy them from The North Face which costs you USD 65 – USD 84. But if the weather is moderately cold you can also buy The North Face Canyonlands for USD 63 – USD 90 or any other brand from Nepali brands like Aroan, Sherpa Adventure Gear, or Sonam, or you can also contact us.
3. Outer Layer
For the Mount Everest Base Camp packing list, the outer layer could be considered as a core layer. This layer will protect you from freezing cold and cold gusts of air. This layer is mainly important for high-altitude treks like Mount Everest Base Camp trek. As it is a core layer, keep in mind that you do not hesitate to spend a few pennies more to buy a better-quality jacket that can withstand the -20°C cold winter around Mt. Everest region.
We recommend you buy warm and quality jackets from Sonam (USD 110 – USD 150), Kathmandu Outdoors (about USD 250), The North Face (USD 150 – USD 200), Mountain Hardware (USD 300 – USD 400), and so on.
Note: In case it is summer and the weather is warm, you can also go for a little thinner water and windproof jackets.
4. Other Clothing Accessories
Socks
In general, I would recommend you pack 5 – 7 pairs of socks made out of merino wool, 5 while hiking and 2 for sleeping. Each pair of socks costs around USD 20 to USD 25. You can get them either from Amazon or from Daraz (a Nepali online shopping portal) too. In addition to that, you can also add Merino sock liners, which will cost you around USD 15. If you do not want to get frostbite or any blisters from hiking, remember to get high-quality merino socks.
Underwear
Do not forget to include underwear that is breathable and quick to wick moisture when packing for Everest Base Camp Trek. Everest Base Camp Packing List female and male both should have about 8 – 10 underwear. It might not always be sunny, so being on the safe side is good and it does not occupy much space and weight. You can get them from any fashion shop, which might cost you around USD 10 – USD 20 for low-budget underwear or around USD 40 for premium-quality underwear.
Sports bras
Everest base camp women’s packing list should have at least 3 – 4 sports bras, that are good at moisture wicking. You can get them from Amazon or Daraz for USD 15 to USD 25 per piece.
Beanie
Beanie is one thing that you do not want to forget when packing for Everest Base Camp trek. You can get them from any shop around Thamel or Daraz or Sonam brand too costing about USD 5 – USD 10.
Hats
Hats are essential for protecting yourself from the sun which comes around USD 5. It should be light in weight and should cover your face and neck.
Buffs or scarf
Buff or scarf is another important clothing item in the Everest packing list which won’t cost you much (about USD 5). It is a must-include item if you do not want to suffer from a cough. You can pack 1 thick neck warmer for higher altitudes and another for lower altitudes.
Gloves
As crucial as other items when making Mt Everest Base Camp Packing List, 1 or 2 pairs of thick gloves that can withhold Mt. Everest region’s -20°C temperature is needed. The North Face gloves can be bought at USD 45 or you can get them for NRS 630 to NRS 2,130 (depending on thickness) from Sonam.
Read more: Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek: Boots
1. Hiking Boots
Getting the right-sized hiking boots for a comfortable trekking experience is probably the most important item on the Everest Base Camp Packing list. In the case of boots, the Everest Base Camp packing list for October must include good warm boots, as the temperature can drop to -20°C, and you do not want to get frostbite when trekking. But for spring, Everest Base Camp packing list for May, you can get trekking boots accordingly.
Every person has a different foot type and size, so get and try boots beforehand, you do not want to get blisters when trekking due to uncomfortable boots. Make sure your boot is not too big or too tight/small, provides good support for the ankle, is waterproof, and should be able to tie and untie lace easily. You can get your Columbia brand hiking boots for USD 60 to USD 120 or from Salomon which costs you USD 175. You can pack 1 pair of casual hiking boots or a sandal, that can be worn with socks, for wearing at the teahouse. It might cost you around USD 100 to USD 150.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek: Bags
- Backpack: For the backpack, keep in mind that the bag itself should be lightweight, durable, comfortable, and waterproof with an opening at the top. If you do not hire a porter, a good size (probably with a capacity of 50-60 L) backpack is a must or you can get a medium-sized backpack (30 – 40 L capacity). You can get Osprey brand’s bags from USD 150 to USD 320.
- Fanny pack: For carrying your go-to items like a water bottle, camera, mobile, purse, snacks, passport, and so on, a fanny pack/daypack can come in handy.
- Duffle Bag: If you are going to get a porter, then a duffle bag can be a good bag option to carry go-to items. It should be waterproof, durable, and have a locking system. It can be bought for USD 150.
Note: Your backpack should have a backpack cover.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek: Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag
The sleeping bag is another critical packing item for your EBC trek. Having a comfy warm sleeping in the -10°C to -20°C temperature is surely going to give you a good night’s sleep. Look for a sleeping bag that fits your body. You can use it on one of the teahouses too, as they just provide a few basic sleeping facilities. You can buy a new sleeping bag or you can rent it too. You can rent a sleeping bag from one of the rental shops in Thamel for NRS 200 per day or buy it from Hype and Byke for USD 175 or from Zephyr for USD 100 to USD 200.
Note: If you are trekking with Himalayan Masters, we provide a complimentary sleeping bag that can withstand -25°C.
Sleeping Bag Liner
It is another pivot item when packing for Mt Everest Base Camp Packing list. If you are renting a sleeping bag, then I recommend you to get a sleeping bag liner from Sea to Summit for USD 75 to USD 110, for clean and warm sleep at the altitudes of Mt. Everest.
Note: You can bring a pillowcase, it might come in handy in one of those teahouses.
Miscellaneous Accessories
Essential Gear
- Rain cover: Adding rain cover to your Everest base camp kit list can be assuring in case of any rainfall, be safe than sorry.
- Earplugs: If you do not want to be distracted by fellow trekkers’ snoring, do not forget to bring earplugs.
- Trekking poles: If you have joint problems or want to avoid or reduce stress on your joints, then trekking poles are an ought to packing item.
- Sunglasses – As you move towards a higher altitude, the strength of UV rays also increases. Therefore, carrying a UV protect glass is recommended (80-100% UV protect sunglasses.) You can get them from USD 25 to USD 30.
- Water bottle/water bladder: Getting dehydrated is one thing you don’t want when trekking. So, it is recommended that you get your water bottle with a purification system (USD 20 – USD 35) or get water purifying tablets, or get water bladders.
- Towel: Bringing a small towel to dry yourself after a wash will be wise. You can get it for around NRS 1,000.
- Lock: Carry a lock with you if you want to be secure about your bags.
- Passport and Money: Don’t forget to carry your documents with you, you don’t know where they might be useful. Likewise, there is money (cash), and there is no mobile banking or ATM service on the way, so bring cash to buy additional supplies.
Electronics
- Phone
- Multi socket: Some of the teahouses might not have enough ports to charge your gadgets, so, multi socket can be useful.
- Camera and extra battery: If you are a camera person, remember to bring its lenses, camera cover, and some extra camera battery.
- Portable Charger: Availability of charging spots might not be possible here and there when trekking to Everest Base Camp. So, bring a portable charger and a good power bank with good battery backup.
- Headlight: In case you have to trek during the night or have to move around in the teahouse, having a headlight or a torch light will prove to be safe.
Entertainment
- Books: If you are a book person, reading books or e-books can be a perfect means to pass the time while resting.
- Cards: If you like being with the company, playing card games can certainly be an escape from the stress and pain from trekking all day long.
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek: Medicines and Toiletries
Medicine
The Everest base camp kit list must have some of the medicine that can be used for first aid. First aid can save a person’s life in case of any unexpected accidents. You can also carry medicine according to your doctor’s prescription. Some of the recommended medicines from our experts are listed below:
- Water purification tablets – for purifying water
- Diamox – for preventing altitude sickness
- Ibuprofen – for pain relief
- Antibiotics
- Anti-diarrhea
- Medicine for cold and sore throat
- Airborne/Emergen C – for boosting immune
- Ankle and knee guard
- Blister band-aid
- Neosporin and Cortizone – to treat skin problems
- Fiber supplement
Note: You can adjust the list of medicines by consulting a doctor or according to your health condition.
Toiletries
- Body wash
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Small mirror
- Sunscreen
- Vaseline
- Lip balm
- Deodorant
- Comb
- shampoo
Insurance
When trekking or traveling to high altitude treks like Everest Base Camp distance, unpredictable things can happen at any time, so getting travel insurance will be a wise decision. You can get travel insurance that covers some minor emergencies and helicopter evacuation. A normal travel insurance might cost around USD 1000 (more or less).
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek: Food
Additionally, you can add a few food items to your Mount Everest Base Camp packing list. Where you feel hungry or low on energy, you can just pop them out and have it. Some of the recommendations from my side are listed below, you can also adjust the list according to your convenience.
- Chocolate
- Liquid electrolyte (replaces minerals lost due to sweating)
- Protein bars
- Nuts and seeds
- Dry fruits
- Energy gels
Want to know more?
Speak to an Expert
Sandip Dhungana
Nepal 🇳🇵
Whatsapp: +977-9823636377