Complete Gear Guide
gear

Complete Gear Guide

The Golden Rule

Buy less, buy better. One quality item that lasts 10 years is cheaper and more reliable than three cheap replacements. Invest in the three things that touch your body: boots, backpack, and sleeping system.

Footwear

Trekking Boots

Your most important gear decision. Key features:

  • Waterproof: Gore-Tex or similar membrane
  • Ankle support: High-cut for heavy packs and rough terrain
  • Break-in time: Budget 4-6 weeks of regular wear before your trek

Trail Runners

For well-maintained tea house trails:

  • Lighter and faster-drying than boots
  • Less ankle support — only use on good terrain
  • Popular models: Salomon Ultra Glide, Altra Lone Peak

Camp Shoes

Light sandals or slip-ons for evenings. Your feet need a break from boots.

Backpacks

Daypack (20-35L)

For day hikes or hut-to-hut treks where gear is carried for you.

  • Hip belt for weight distribution
  • Hydration sleeve compatibility
  • Rain cover included

Multi-Day Pack (50-65L)

For camping treks where you carry everything.

  • Adjustable torso length
  • Load-lifter straps
  • Multiple access points (top + side zip)

Clothing

Base Layers

  • Merino wool is king — temperature regulating, odor resistant
  • Synthetic dries faster but retains odor
  • Avoid cotton — it stays wet and chills you

Mid Layers

  • Fleece: 100-200 weight for most conditions
  • Down jacket: Best warmth-to-weight ratio, but useless when wet
  • Synthetic insulation: Keeps warm when damp

Shell Layer

  • Rain jacket: Waterproof, breathable, with hood
  • Rain pants: Lightweight, side-zip for easy on/off over boots
  • Wind shirt: Lighter than a rain jacket, blocks wind on exposed ridges

Sleeping System

Sleeping Bag

  • Down: Lighter, more compressible, warmer. Get hydrophobic down for wet conditions.
  • Synthetic: Cheaper, works when wet, heavier.
  • Temperature rating: Choose 5-10°C below expected low temperatures.

Sleeping Pad

Insulation from the cold ground is just as important as your sleeping bag.

  • Inflatable: Compact, comfortable, but puncture risk
  • Closed-cell foam: Durable, cheap, but bulky
  • Combo: Inflatable on top of foam for best comfort and warmth

Trekking Poles

Controversial but highly recommended:

  • Reduce knee impact by 25% on descents
  • Improve balance on technical terrain
  • Engage upper body for a more complete workout
  • Carbon fiber is lighter; aluminum is more durable
  • Phone with offline maps: AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or Maps.me
  • Paper map and compass: Essential backup, learn to use them
  • GPS device: Garmin InReach for remote treks with SOS capability

Water Treatment

  • Filter: Sawyer Squeeze or Platypus — lightweight and effective
  • Tablets: Chemical backup (Aquatabs, Katadyn)
  • Steripen: UV treatment, fast but needs batteries

First Aid Kit

Essential items:

  • Blister kit (Compeed or moleskin)
  • Ibuprofen and paracetamol
  • Antihistamines
  • Antiseptic wipes and bandages
  • Personal medications
  • Electrolyte tablets