Everest Base Camp - Kit List
Below is advice when buying kit. This is mine and Chris's advice and shop assistants may take a different view. This is not a problem as it is personal preference. Any problems, or if I have not made something clear then give me a call or e-mail me. I'll be happy to help. I would rather you ask than buy kit that is not appropriate. After this advice I have made a full list of kit.
- No need for a sleeping bag as they will be provided by the company on our arrival in Nepal. I would suggest bringing a sleeping bag liner (silk or cotton) these are cheap and can provide a good bit of extra heat.
- The company are also providing us with an expedition bag. These will go with us when we trek and so we will not need a large 75/80 litre bag. Instead we can travel to Nepal with a suitcase and then repack the expedition bag when we get out there. So do not go buying a large hiking bag. You may want to consider buying a waterproof bag liner to keep your clothes dry if it rains.
- You will need a 30/35 litre day sack. This is the bag you will be carrying while on the trek (your main expedition bag will be carried by the Nepalese porters (Three bags to one porter!)). Your day sack has to be comfortable and you must be able to pack a small personal first aid kit, fleece, waterproof jacket and water bottles inside it. No draw string bags.
- I would suggest at least two fleeces - one thin and one thick. It does not matter if they are half zipped or fully zipped at the front. We will be able to get expedition fleeces in Nepal they will cost around £10 and will be embodied. I would suggest that this is a good buy - details to follow.
- A good water proof jacket - has to be breathable GORE-TEX or equivalent. All the main outdoor clothing companies have their own version of GORE-TEX. Berghaus has Simplex and Lowe Alpine has Triple Point these are just as good but please make sure it is made of a breathable/wicker material. Another good option is a poncho as they can go over your day sack as well - plus they are cheaper! Breathable waterproof trousers would be nice if you already have them, but would be an unnecessary expense just for the trip. If you wear nylon shorts whilst walking you may choose not to wear waterproof trousers. If you are wearing trousers, or for sitting around at camp some cheap and cheerful waterproof trouser will be fine.
- Footwear: Either hike boots or 'approach' boots. Approach boots are basically light weight hiking boots. I wore Solomon approach boots up to Everest Base Camp so they will be able to handle the trekking which we are doing. The boots must have ankle support and they must be worn in. Do not go and buy the boots a couple of days before we go. They have to be broken in. They must be comfortable as you will be spending most of the day for fifteen consecutive days in them. It is best to get breathable boots (again GORE-TEX or equivalent). Leather boots are ok, but they are not the best boot to have.
- Water is best carried in either SIGG bottles or equivalent. You can also use Camelback/Platypus type carriers. I would suggest that you are able to carry about 2 litres (think about this when buying your day sack). Camelbacks and platypus' are easily damaged, so if using one it is a good idea to bring a bottle also.
- Do not bring cotton socks - cotton rubs and will cause blisters. Two pairs of socks or one thick pair of hiking socks are best two options.
- First aid kit to contain: Immodium / Nerofen / Solpadeine / Blister pack / Antiseptic wipes / Plasters. Diamox? - Can be taken for altitude sickness (AMS) - some doctors believe it to be a placebo, but it is my belief that it works and I would recommend taking some or at least asking your doctor about it.
- Layers are best - Base layer (thin t-shirt type top) followed by light fleece and then a jacket. Although it should be warm when we are there.
- You will burn quick at altitude - High UV Sun Cream P20 is best (although some people have problems with this) - otherwise you will burn!
- I would suggest that walking poles are a good idea. They will be extremely useful on the day that you trek to Base Camp and also Kala Patar. Please do give this consideration and do not rule them out because you were able to cope without them at Annapurna in 2006!
Kit List
We will not be travelling in Scout shirts but they will be taken by every one going. Group scarf's are also to be taken these will be worn when leaving.
This kit list is only a guideline and is not exhaustive. It is your personal kit, so bring what best suits you. Please remember that space in your bag will be at a premium, so don't bring it if you don't need it. The porters have a tough enough job as it is; don't make it harder for them!
Expedition
- Fleeces/jumpers x 2 (At least)
- T-shirts or similar x 3 or 4
- Trousers x 1 or 2 and shorts x 3 or 4 (Umbro's)
- Underclothes x 4
- Socks x 4
- Hiking boots/Approach boots
- Trainers/ sandals x 2
- Waterproof jacket & trousers?
- Wool hat and gloves
- Sun hat, sun cream, sun glasses, lip salve
- Towels - Travel towels are best 'Lifemarque' or equivalent (Pack up small and dry quick)
- Torch (Head torch is best as it is light weight and small)
- First Aid kit
- Day sack
- Water bottles or equivalent
- Anti bacterial wipes for hands or 'dry wash'
- Camera / Films
- Spare batteries
- Waterproof bag liner
- Expedition soap for washing clothes - (Lifeventure all purpose soup or equivalent)
- String for washing line
- Spare boot laces
- Pen/pencil & paper / notebook
- Playing cards / book
- Walking poles
- Wash Kit
- Sandals (for rest days)
- Passport size photos x4
- Small pad lock
- Sun Glasses
Rest of the Trip
- Clothes to wear around Kathmandu (will be left at hotel whilst trekking)''
- Towel
