What to wear for trekking in Nepal?

What gear do you really need for Nepal. Trekking gear companies tell you to buy x, y and z before you even think of setting foot on the Himalayas for fear of death.  

So let’s get real here about the trekking gear and equipment you will need for Nepal. Some people head off for a walk looking like they’re summiting and it’s nuts.

Thus, gearing up with necessary materials for trekking is very important. If you are planning to visit Nepal very soon for trekking, you should be well prepared. But, the most important gear you need is proper clothing or wear for the trek.

Many of the first timers are always confused about what to wear while trekking in Nepal. Is there anything particular to be considered?

Ideas for What to Wear Trekking in Nepal

Clothing:

When trekking in Nepal, you need to dress in layers. As you ascend and descend in altitude, the temperature changes dramatically. Layering will help as when the weather gets warmer you can take off a layer and if it gets colder you can add a layer. You will have a porter who will carry your luggage that weighs up to 15 kilograms.

During your trek, you will not decide what to wear; the weather will do that for you. The temperature may rise or fall all of sudden. You should always be aware that the weather might change drastically. You should thus, be prepared for it. So, we would always recommend wearing clothes in layers. Comfort should always be your first priority while packing for your trekking. We would suggest you carry a windcheater or a soft shell jacket which  will keep you warm.

In sunny days, you can wear only wind cheater instead of jackets. You should take your clothes depending on the days of your trek. If you are trekking for longer days, washing would be the best option. You can also carry a waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers. The weather changes dramatically in higher altitudes and you never know when you might need them.

It is always a smart idea to carry clothes that are light and easy to dry.  Carrying clothes that dries easily is always the best option. We would also recommend you not to carry cotton clothes as cotton gets very sweaty. You will have to carry woolen shirts. Thick woolen sweaters outside will keep you warm.

If you are a female, we suggest you carry tank tops with a built-in sports bra. Trekking in a skirt is also preferable.  You would need warm leggings or trousers underneath. Carrying yoga pants for nights would be better. You can also bring thermal wears for the nights. For camping trekking, you can wear trousers. And  synthetic underwear is more comfortable as it wicks moisture away from your skin.

You will be walking across rivers; you may need a swimming costume sometimes. Or convertible trousers can also come in handy. You can use a woolen scarf for your neck, it can also be used for your head. It will protect you from cold. You can buy quality woolen scarves in Nepal at a reasonable price.

Footwear:

Socks are always an important part of a travel. For the trek, you should be very careful regarding your selection of socks. You need to have a good quality of socks. You need to protect your feet in an absolute low temperature. Your leg has a high chance of freezing or swelling. You need to have a good quality and thick socks and two pairs of thin socks. You can also bring flip-flops for use in tea houses. You will definitely need a thick and big but comfortable hiking boot to walk. Hiking boots help to protect your ankle from injuries and your foot from the blisters.

If possible, you can use low gaiters in your hiking boots that keep your trekking boots against rain, snow, and muds. It would be better if you bring spare laces with you. You can also carry a normal slipper to wear around city areas and camps.

Gloves:

You need to keep your hands warm throughout your trek. For this, two types of gloves are recommended i.e. outer gloves and inner gloves. Your outer gloves need to be waterproof, windproof, warm and very durable. Likewise, your inner gloves must be lightweight and made of fleece material.

Hats & Caps:

The weather changes drastically in Nepal. You should be prepared for everything. You should carry caps and hats to cover your head while trekking. You have to walk the whole day while trekking. You have to walk during mid- noon when the sun is its harshest. Headwear will save you from suntans and headache.

Headwear not only protects from the sun but also the rain. Carrying a woolen cap is a must during trekking. It would protect you from the extreme cold. Negligence can cause extreme headaches. You can also suffer from dizziness and catch a cold. Therefore, headwear is important.

Long Sleeve Shirts

Long sleeve shirts will protect you from sunburn and scratches from plants and rocks. In hot weather, t-shirts or shirts are recommended. In the cold weather, this can be a perfect base layer.

Sunglasses

Due to altitude and snow, UV intensity is relatively high in the Himalayas. So, 100% UV protection sunglasses are recommended.

Conclusion

While traveling, you are only allowed to carry a certain weight. Besides this, while you are trekking, heavy weight can slow you down.

Please remember that you need to keep the weight of your clothing equipment down to a minimum. Your packed trek bag should not weigh more than 15 kgs (33 pounds). Thus, packing light is essential for trekking in Nepal.

There is no restriction on what you should wear while trekking in Nepal. You can wear whatever you want, as long as the weather permits you and is comfortable for you.

If you are planning to trek in high altitudes, it is always a good idea to carry warm clothes such as gloves, thick socks, and shoes to prevent cold and snow. Essential clothing items are down jacket, waterproof jacket, windproof jacket, lightweight pants, and tops.

Nepal is a traditional country. So, if you dress properly, you can easily adjust with the local people. Also, you need to be careful while dressing for religious and cultural sites.