Good packing for the Annapurna Base Camp trek balances warmth at the top with comfort in the humid lower valley. You can walk in a T-shirt at 1,800 m and need a down jacket at 4,130 m on the same trip. The list below covers the essentials. Keep your trekking bag under about 10 to 12 kg if a porter will carry it, since weight limits apply.
Clothing system
- Two or three quick-dry T-shirts or base layers, preferably synthetic or merino.
- One warm mid-layer, such as a fleece or light synthetic jacket.
- A down or synthetic insulated jacket for evenings and base camp.
- A waterproof and windproof shell jacket and rain trousers.
- Two pairs of trekking trousers and one pair of thermal leggings.
- Warm hat, sun hat, buff, lightweight and warm gloves.
- Four to five pairs of good trekking socks and a spare thermal pair.
Footwear
Well-worn waterproof trekking boots with ankle support are the most important item. Break them in at home for at least a few weeks. Bring lightweight sandals or camp shoes for evenings. Gaiters help in snow or mud, and microspikes are useful in winter or early spring.
Sleeping and bags
A sleeping bag rated to about minus 10 degrees Celsius is a wise choice for ABC. Many teahouses supply quilts, but they are not always clean or warm enough. A liner adds warmth and hygiene. Use a waterproof duffel for your main bag and a 25 to 35 litre daypack for water, camera and layers.
Health and hygiene
- Personal medicines, pain relief, rehydration salts and blister care.
- Water purification tablets or a small filter, plus a reusable bottle.
- Sun cream with high protection, lip balm and sunglasses with strong UV filters.
- Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, toilet paper and a small quick-dry towel.
Tech and extras
A headlamp with spare batteries, a power bank, a charging cable, a plug adapter, trekking poles, a rain cover for your daypack and waterproof liners keep life easier. Trekking poles reduce strain on knees on the staircases. Carry a printed copy of permits, insurance and emergency contacts.
What to leave behind
Jeans, heavy cotton, unnecessary electronics, bulky books and valuables. Most hotels in Pokhara will store your spare luggage for free or a small fee while you trek. Pack lighter than you think, because every kilogram matters on the stairs.
Packing by category, with weights
Aim to keep clothing to about four kilograms, sleeping bag to one and a half, boots on your feet, medical and toiletries to one kilogram and electronics to half a kilogram. This brings a typical bag to around ten kilograms. If a porter carries two trekkers' bags, a combined limit of about twenty kilograms is common. Weigh your bag before leaving home.
Layering in practice
Start the morning with a base layer and mid layer, remove the mid layer after twenty minutes, add it again at breaks and put on the down jacket at lunch if the wind is cold. This constant adjustment prevents sweat and chills. Keep your shell at the top of your pack for sudden rain or wind.
Gear you can rent or buy in Pokhara
Pokhara and Kathmandu have many shops that sell or rent sleeping bags, jackets, poles, gaiters and boots. Quality varies, so check zips, seams and insulation. If you buy local gear, break it in on short walks. Boots are the one item you should not buy on the day before you start.
Final checks
- Pack documents in a waterproof pouch.
- Carry spare batteries and a charging cable.
- Put small first-aid items in an accessible pocket.
- Leave a copy of your itinerary with a family member.
