Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Gears

MOUNT KILIMANJARO TREKKING GEARS

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and is located in Tanzania. It is a popular destination for trekkers from all over the world, with thousands of people making the journey every year to climb to the summit. However, the trek to the summit is not an easy feat, and requires proper preparation and gear. Here is a closer look at the essential trekking gear you will need for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Sleeping Gear

❏ Sleeping Bag rated 0°F, -15°F
❏ Sleeping mat : we provide one
❏ Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth or for rented sleeping bag)
❏ Compression sack for sleeping bag

Clothing: Lower Body

❏ Underwear (no cotton)
❏ 1 “Convertibles” or shorts
❏ 1-2 light-medium weight Base layer
❏ Hiking pants (no cotton)
❏ Winter hiking pants
❏ Waterproof shell pants (recommend size zippers)

Gloves

❏ Thin gloves (wool or synthetic, no cotton)-
❏ Thick waterproof gloves or mittens

Headwear

❏ Brim hat or cap with neck protection
❏ Warm hat with ear flaps
❏ Neck gaiter or “Buff” (very versatile)
❏ Sunglasses (rated 100% UV protection)
❏ Headtorch (don’t forget spare batteries)

Water & Snacks

❏ 2-3 liter hydration bladder (Platypus or Camelbak or similar)
❏ 1-2 One-liter wide-mouth water bottle (Nalgene or similar)
❏ Electrolyte/Sports drink powdered formula for adding to your water
❏ Snacks: Energy bars of your preference – plan for 2-4 per day
❏ Water purification tablets or filter pen (we provide boiled/filtered water)

Personal first-aid Kit

Blister plasters – different shapes and sizes
❏ Antibiotic cream or ointment
❏ Band-Aid/Elastoplast for minor cuts and scrapes
❏ Ibuprofen/Paracetamol  over the counter pain relief
❏ Skin healing ointment such as Aquaphor
❏ Immodium for diarrhea
❏ Anti-nausea medication
❏ Any prescription medications
❏ Diamox (if using)

Footwear & Trekking Poles

❏ Hiking boots – waterproof mid-weight
❏ Running shoes/light hikers (for wearing around camp)
❏ Gaiters
❏ 5-6 pairs liner socks (wool or synthetic, no cotton)
❏ 4-6 pairs thick socks (no cotton!) – thermal socks for summit night
❏ Spare laces for hiking boots
❏ Trekking poles

Clothing: Upper Body

❏ Comfortable sports bra (ladies only)
❏ 1-2 light-weight T-shirts (no cotton)
❏ 1-2 light weight long-sleeved T-shirts (no cotton)
❏ 2-3 Light to mid-weight Base Layer
❏ 1-2 Fleece as insulation layer
❏ Insulated shell jacket
❏ Down jacket (approx 750-fill)
❏ Waterproof shell jacket that fits over all your layers

Footwear & Trekking Poles

❏ Hiking boots – waterproof mid-weight
❏ Running shoes/light hikers (for wearing around camp)
❏ Gaiters
❏ 5-6 pairs liner socks (wool or synthetic, no cotton)
❏ 4-6 pairs thick socks (no cotton!) – thermal socks for summit night
❏ Spare laces for hiking boots-
❏ Trekking poles

Personal Health & Comfort

❏ Toiletries: toothbrush & paste, hairbrush/comb, foot powder, hand cream, deodorant, soap.
❏ “Baby-wipes” and anti-bacterial, hand-sanitizer wipes
❏ Any regular medication you are taking
❏ Anti-bacterial hand-sanitizer gel such as Purell
❏ Fingernail brush
❏ Nail clippers
❏ Ear plugs
❏ Sunscreen SPF 40+
❏ Small microfiber quick-dry towel
❏ Pee-bottle for night time calls of nature
❏ Small torch
❏ Headtorch
❏ Pocket knife (Swiss Army Knife or “Leatherman”)
❏ Spare contact lenses/glasses
❏ Toilet paper (1-2 rolls. Take out the cardboard center for easier packing)
❏ Camera/phone/iPod/Kindle
❏ Spare batteries

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it requires proper preparation and gear. Investing in high-quality gear will make your trek much more enjoyable and comfortable. Remember to pack all the necessary clothing, sleeping gear, and accessories to ensure a successful climb to the summit.