Table of Contents

17 Top Everest Base Camp Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

everest base camp packing list
seen in: national geographic, cnn, travel + leisure, new york times
the guardian, lonely planet, usa today, forbes
By
Updated on

Trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. (Who wouldn’t want to share those bragging rights for the rest of their lives?!) Plus, it’s a truly beautiful area to visit. Not only will you get to see Mt.Everest and other intimidating peaks nearby as you ascend the trail, but you’ll find picturesque glaciers, forests, lakes, and waterfalls along the way too. Another favorite for Mt.Everest base campers is experiencing the culture of the traditional Sherpa villages along the way.

Although not as risky as trekking to the summit, this challenging adventure still poses risks if you’re not prepared. Get ready for your trip with our top essential items, gear, and clothing. Plus, you won’t want to pack anything unnecessary for this trip, so we have a list of items NOT to bring as well. And, if you’re just starting to research a Mt.Everest Base Camp trip, we have answers to some common FAQs for this trek too.

See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for Everest Base Camp– 17 Essentials

  • 1. Universal Travel Adapter

    Nothing is a bigger bummer than “running out of juice” on your electronics on an epic trip. Of course, you’ll want to take lots of amazing photos and keep in touch with friends and family back home while you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp. That’s why we highly recommend taking a universal travel adapter to charge all of your electronic devices.

    Universal Travel Adapter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    Not much is worse than ruining your phone…Especially when you’re thousands of miles away from home! Keep your phone safe from rain and snow with an airtight waterproof case. Bonus: The cord for hanging your phone around your neck is a lot handier than digging around in your pocket each time you want to take a pic.

    Universa Waterproof

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    Microfiber towels have a surprising number of uses. Wipe gear off after a rain storm, wipe yourself down, get the condensation off your tent in the morning. You get the idea. The best part is that they dry quickly, so you won’t have to worry about sticking a wet towel in your pack! Plus, they take up very little room.

    travel towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. Day Pack

    On this trip, you will need two types of bags: A day pack and a duffel bag. This daypack is large enough to stash a meal, snacks, water, an extra set of clothes, and whatever else you might need for hiking throughout the day. Best of all, it’s very durable and affordable from a well-known company in the hiking community known for its quality and innovative designs.

    Day Pack

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Neck Wallet

    It can be easy to misplace your wallet when you’re constantly moving from one place to another. This neck wallet keeps your important items, like cash, credit cards, ID, and passport, close so you never have to go through the burden of losing them. Plus, it helps to prevent theft too.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Duffel Bag

    If you are going with a guide service, this will be used to haul the majority of the “stuff” needed on your trip by porters. It is large enough to get all of your essentials in and the canvas will hold up well against the harsh elements of the Himalayas. Also, it will help you keep your pack weight limit down as most guide services have a max.

    Duffel Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Travel Insurance

    It’s wise to get travel insurance for any trip that you take, domestic or foreign. This is especially true for high-risk activities, like hiking up some of the tallest mountains in the world! TravelInsurance.com makes acquiring travel insurance less convoluted and less expensive while still getting great coverage in the unfortunate event of an accident. It allows you to compare plans from top companies to find the best option for you and your travel plans.

    Travel Insurance

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

  • 8. Pack Cover

    While most hiking backpacks are very waterproof, none are perfect. Between the rain, snow, and even driving rain or snow, it’s wise to get a pack cover for extra protection from the elements. Having wet clothes, food, and more is a quick way to put a damper on your trip.

    Pack Cover

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Packing Cubes

    Nobody likes rummaging through a bag to find one little thing. These packing cubes are handy for not only separating your toiletries from the rest of your items, but organizing everything: clothes, socks, footwear, and more so you know exactly where everything is, allowing you to get dressed, packed up, and hit the trail sooner.

    Packing Cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Waterproof Hiking Boots

    Footwear is of utmost importance on a hiking trip like this. You’ll need waterproof boots to keep your feet dry during rain storms and walking through snowy areas. Cold, wet feet are a good way to get blisters, at best, and hypothermia, at worst. We also recommend boots over shoes because they provide more ankle support, lessening the chance of injuries. This should go without saying, but be sure to break footwear in before your trip!

    Waterproof Hiking Boots

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Trekking Poles

    Though rugged, the hike to Everest Base Camp isn’t a technical climb. You won’t need any actual climbing gear. But, it is a great idea to take some trekking poles. Not only can they help you keep your balance on slippery terrain and snow, but they can also make the steep parts feel not quite so taxing.

    Trekking Poles

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Hydration Bladder

    Did you know you actually need to drink more water the higher the elevation gets? In a nutshell, your respiration rate goes up because there is less oxygen, which makes you lose water faster. That said, it’s important to have a high-quality, leak-proof water bladder that has an abundant capacity to cover your water needs each day.

    Hydration Bladder

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Balaclava

    These things are so handy because they can be worn in a variety of ways. At higher elevations, you’ll want to use it for extra face and head protection. In the lower, warmer areas of the trail, you might want to wear it durag-style to stay cooler. In between the two, it makes a nice neck warmer.

    Balaclava

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Wool Socks

    Merino socks are wonderful things. They aren’t itchy and scratchy like traditional wool garments. Plus, they keep your feet nice and toasty while still wicking moisture away. This is important in helping prevent blisters. We especially like these wool socks because they were designed and tested with an Everest mountaineer, so you know they’re good!

    Wool socks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Waterproof Hat

    Aside from our feet, we’re likely to lose body heat the quickest through our heads. That said, you can understand the importance of wearing a high-quality hat on an Everest Base Camp trek! We like this one because it’s not only waterproof but windproof as well, all while still being breathable.

    Waterproof Hat

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Waterproof Gloves

    Wearing some good gloves goes without saying. However, you don’t have to wear bulky Eskimo mittens to keep your hands warm. It’s easy to see why these gloves are popular. Not only are they good down to -30°F, but you can actually still grab things, hold your trekking poles easily, and even use touch screen devices, like your phone, while wearing them.

    Waterproof Gloves

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Base Layers

    It’s important to wear base layers on most hiking trips, especially ones like this where temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day. These thin underlayers will add warmth without feeling bulky underneath your mid and outer layers. You might consider bringing an extra pair for sleeping in at night.

    Base Layers

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to Wear to Mount Everest Base Camp

When hiking to Mount Everest Base Camp, it’s all about layering. For one, you’ll start in warm to mild temperatures in Lukla. Like any mountainous region, it gets cooler as you climb higher. Second, you never want to get sweaty. It’s really important to remove layers before you start sweating. Being damp in chilly temperatures can quickly lead to hypothermia. Conversely, you should also start adding layers before you get too cold. Your clothing sort of reflects your body heat. And if it doesn’t have much to work with, it will take longer to warm up.

Waterproof shoes and outerwear are also important. If your shoes get wet, your socks are likely to follow. Wet feet lead to blisters and, again, possible hypothermia. Your outer layer, which will be a waterproof and windproof mountaineering jacket when you’re fully outfitted, will be your last line of defense from the elements.

What to Wear to Mount Everest Base Camp
What Should WOMEN Wear at Everest Base Camp? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Wool t-shirt
Fleece jacket
Thermal underwear
Convertible hiking pants
Synthetic parka with hood
Leggings
Athletic skirt
Sweater
Thermal socks
Slip-on sneakers
Long-sleeve trekking shirt
Down jacket
Hiking shorts
Waterproof overpants
Waterproof hiking boots
Wicking sports bra

It can be overwhelming packing for a trip like this if you’re not already used to layering for hikes. Throw in a heavy-duty coat and other accessories, like waterproof pants, and it can be hard to know where to begin. We’ve chosen an assortment of items that will keep you warm and dry on your trek and come highly rated, so you know they’ve been put to the test by outdoor lovers of all kinds!

You’ll notice we have some comfy, casual clothes listed too. You’ll likely want to change your outfit as soon as you reach your lodge or tea house for the evening. These items will keep you warm in the sometimes chilly buildings, not break your bank, and be respectful to the locals’ culture. (More on that below.)

What Should MEN Wear at Everest Base Camp? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Wool t-shirt
Fleece jacket
Thermal underwear
Convertible hiking pants
Expedition coat
Lightweight sweater
Lounge pants
Undershirt
Thermal socks
Sneakers
Long-sleeve trekking shirt
Down jacket
Hiking shorts
Waterproof overpants
Waterproof hiking boots

Due to the nature of this trip, men and women will wear similar clothing for trekking during the day. What you decide to lounge around in the evening is totally up to you (though we do have some suggestions for you above). Since your amount of luggage/gear is limited, remember to keep it simple aside from the necessities.

Dressing for the Seasons at Mount Everest Base Camp

SPRING – April, May

Although you won’t experience nearly as much rainfall during the wet, summer months, April and May have their own share of showers and it can still be chilly.

You’ll definitely want to pack your rain gear for this season, including waterproof pants and a lighter-weight rain jacket. (Think something more “everyday” and less “mountaineering”.) And because of the temperatures, you’ll want to be sure to have a variety of layers with you. The average high for these months is about 51°F and the average low is 21°F.

SPRING-Everest-Base-Camp-Packing

FALL – October, November

There are only two times of year that are optimal for hiking to Everest Base Camp and the fall months are one of them. The temps tend to stay milder, ranging between 42 and 57°F on average. That said, you’ll still want that fleece jacket and convertible pants for a quick change as you climb higher and the temperatures start dropping.
FALL
Dressing Appropriately for the Activity – (Click to expand)
Tea houses and Sherpa villages: Here is an insider tip: Locals are conservative when it comes to dressing. If you want to be respectful, be modest in the way you dress. For women, consider a medium-length skirt (or longer) with leggings underneath. Pants and a sweater are fine too if you’re not into skirts. For men, be sure your shorts are at least knee-length. Pants are fine too, of course.

Sleeping: Whether you’re sleeping in a tent or tea house, it’s important to change clothes before bed. You will stay much warmer (and feel less gross!) wearing dry, clean clothes, not ones you have sweated in and gotten dirty throughout the day.

What NOT to Bring to Mount Everest Base Camp

  • 1.DON’T Bring Pillows

    Most of your lodging options will provide pillows. However, it would be wise to take your own pillow case or pillow protector.

  • 2.DON’T Bring Books

    With so many people from so many places, you’ll likely end up chatting with fellow hikers. Plus, you can always download a book to your phone ahead of time.

  • 3.DON’T Bring Too Many Clothes

    Clothes take up a lot of space in your pack. It’s best to take a few outfits and rotate them as needed. You can always “spot wash” items as needed too.

  • 4.DON’T Bring a Solar Charger

    Solar chargers are great in theory…But they won’t do you much good if it’s overcast. It’s best to take a regular battery pack or your normal charger and an adapter.

  • 5.DON’T Bring a Water Filter

    There will be plenty of water sources along the way in the villages.

  • 6.DON’T Bring a Camera Tripod

    While we definitely encourage you to take pictures, a tripod is just going to take up extra room in your bag and you don’t really need it.

What NOT to Wear at Everest Base Camp – (Click to expand)
There are a few things you’ll want to avoid at Everest Base Camp: flip-flops, uncomfortable hiking boots, and cotton clothing. While flip-flops are usually a good choice for “camp shoes” under normal circumstances, this isn’t one of them. Even in the lodgings along the way, your feet are likely to get cold and certainly will if you’re staying in a tent. You’ll also want to break in any hiking boots ahead of time and make sure they fit correctly. You don’t want ones that are too small and pinching your feet, of course, but your feet sliding around in oversized ones can cause issues too. Last, there is a saying in the hiking world: cotton kills. When cotton becomes damp, it clings to the skin and can take a long time to dry out, neither of which will lead to anything good happening on this trek. Save your favorite cotton t-shirt for sleeping in.

FAQs about Mount Everest Base Camp

  • 1. Can I hike to Everest Base Camp without a guide?

    Can I hike to Everest Base Camp without a guide?

    Absolutely! This question comes up a lot. If you’re not into traveling in large groups of people you don’t know or want to save some money on an already expensive trip, you can definitely go without a guide. The trail is easy to follow and busier than you might think during the peak seasons. Keep in mind you will have to carry all of your own gear unless you hire a private porter.

  • 2. Can a beginner hike to Everest Base Camp?

    Technically, yes. You don’t necessarily need any hiking experience to hike to Everest Base Camp. But, you should be in good physical condition. Even so, it still won’t hurt to have some hiking experience so you can have an idea of what to expect.

  • 3. When is the best time of year to hike to Everest Base Camp?

    When is the best time of year to hike to Everest Base Camp?

    The best time of year to hike Everest Base Camp is during spring and fall. More specifically, the months we mentioned above: April, May, October, and November. The temperatures are mild, there is little rain, and snowfall is less likely. In case you’re curious why summer wouldn’t be a good time, it is the wet season for this area. The hiking season is a relatively small window so it’s important you plan in advance as things can sell out quickly.

  • 4. What is the elevation at Everest Base Camp?

    The elevation at Everest Base Camp is 17,598ft.

  • 5. What guide options are there for Everest Base Camp?

    What guide options are there for Everest Base Camp?

    There are lots of guided options, both from local groups and domestic businesses here in the states. Domestic ones will cost much more than those led by locals, though that doesn’t necessarily make them better. Plus, you get to learn more about the culture if you decide to go with a locally guided tour. One word of warning, though. If the price from anyone offering a guide service seems too good to be true, it probably is.

  • 6. Are there toilets at Everest Base Camp?

    There are pit toilets at Base Camp. The lodges and tea houses also have restroom facilities. Some guided tours also offer “toilet tents” to do your business in.

  • 7. How do I prepare for Everest Base Camp?

    How do I prepare for Everest Base Camp?

    It’s a good idea to start training at least a few months before your trip. Take long walks and/or hikes. Walking uphill is especially helpful as well as hiking with a loaded daypack to get used to that as well. Shoot for at least once a week at minimum. The more days you get in, the better. Try for at least one longer or steeper hike per week.