How do I pack for an extensive trek? Too heavy, or too less? heavy woolens, or light clothes? Here’s a guide to what you must carry during a trek.
Are you a mountain person? Then this is the right time for you to plan a trip to the Everest Base Camp. After all, this is the perfect season to visit the mighty Himalayas. But before you start planning the route, here are a few must-haves that you need to backpack for the trek. Here is a checklist..
FLEECE JACKET
Apart from T-shirts, don’t forget to carry a fleece jacket that will provide the thermal insulation you need. Wear them particularly as you reach upwards of 300m above the sea-level and don’t forget to keep your ears toasty with a hoodie.
THERMALS
As you climb upwards, you will need at least two pairs of thermal clothing to deal with the cold weather. Layering is the input to any trek. A pair of thermals layered with T-shirts and jackets will let you walk comfortably -keep them loose.
DOWN JACKET
The last two days of your trek, from Gorakshep (the frozen lake bed near Everest) onwards, will be exhausting and cold. A down jacket is obligatory and to keep yourself warm and cosy .
T-SHIRTS
Take two or three synthetic, thin T-shirts they’re lighter. Also carry three pairs of trekking pants.
MUFFLERS
Mufflers, Scarfs Or caps -carry them for protection from the harsh sun, as well as the bitter wind that can rattle your ears at high altitudes. Keep your ears, and neck roofed at all times as you inch higher.
EARMUFFS
You get various kinds of earmuffs these days -ike the woollen headbands, or even the ones that look like headphones, with woollen muffs for the ears… Keep a monkey cap handy throughout.
WOOLLEN SOCKS
Carry at least two pairs of woollen socks. The nights can be cold, so, it is best to wear two pairs of socks so your feet don’t go cold as you sleep -heed this mainly if you’re planning to camp out in a tent.
RAINCOAT
The climate is quite random up there. Sleet, rain, slush… you can come across anything. So, it’s better to carry a water proof poncho or a raincoat.
GLOVES, SUNGLASSES
Sub-zero proof gloves are recommended -keeps frostbite out. As for sunglasses, go for polarised glasses.
SLEEPING BAG
A sleeping bag with a rating of 20-degree is necessary. But they’re also accessible for hire all over the mountains.