Malla Treks

Clothing & Equipment

Recommended Equipment

Before you start: You can get used trekking equipment and new fake brand-name rucksacks, duffel bags, jackets and clothing in Kathmandu. These will probably last through a trek or two, but are not a good long-term investment. If you have a day to shop in Kathmandu, you can easily equip yourself for a trek, but most people prefer to have everything packed and ready beforehand. On this page we offer our own suggestions for quality equipment. We use and recommend the excellent gear made by Mountain Hardwear. The following list details the equipment we recommend you bring on your trek. In affiliation with Altrec.com we offer on-line purchasing from one of the web's most complete on-line outdoor equipment shops.
The Essentials	Treks above 3000 meters (10,000 feet)	Below 3000 meters
Sleeping Bag	You'll probably want a high quality down bag like this one from Mountain Hardwear	A fibrefill bag will be warm enough except in late December and January
Insulated jacket	It's cold up there; be sure you have a warm insulated jacket	If you're not going high, a lighter jacket will be enough. You won't need one in April and May
Fleece jacket	Fleece is light and stays warm even when wet.	Try a windproof version
Duffel Bag	If you are traveling with porters, you'll need a strong, waterproof duffel bag for your gear.
Daypack	If you have a porter you'll need only a daypack	If you're carrying all your gear, you'll need a larger pack

Extra equipment
Water Bottle	Don't forget this. Forget all the complicated stuff, buy a good Nalgene bottle that does not leak and you can take it to bed as a hot water bottle.
Flashlight or Torch	A small hand-carry flashlight is a good choice. Be sure to put a string on it so you don't drop it.	Though many people prefer a headlamp - which is easier to use when you are reading and bed (and you don't risk dropping it into the toilet!).
Walking shoes	High top shoes provide ankle support	But many people prefer lighter, low-top shoes.
Boots	Boots are a better choice if you are going to high altitudes	Here is the women's version
Gore Tex Parka	It's expensive, but Gore Tex keeps you dry	Women's Jacket
Less expensive rainwear		Or use a poncho, which is cooler in hot weather
Sunglasses or goggles	Get a pair with side shields like these
Shorts, Shirts and hats	Check the selection for men	And women
Socks
Pocket Knife	Preferably with scissors
Sandals for Camp wear
Walking Stick	A single walking stick	Or a pair of poles
Navigation Aids	Altimeter	Or an inexpensive GPS

Search the Outdoors

18099