The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is one of the most iconic adventures in the world. Standing at the foot of Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, is a dream for thousands of trekkers every year.
By 2026, trekking to EBC will remain as thrilling as ever, but with better infrastructure, updated safety guidelines, and advanced gear available globally, preparing well will be even more important.
Packing the right items ensures not only comfort but also safety in the unpredictable and demanding Himalayan environment. Forgetting essentials can make the trek unnecessarily challenging, while overpacking adds weight and slows you down. The goal is to strike a balance—carry what you absolutely need, organized into categories.
This blog will guide you through the must-pack items for your Everest Base Camp trek in 2026, categorized into clothing, gear, personal items, and trekking essentials.
1. Clothing Essentials
The weather in the Khumbu region changes dramatically with altitude. By the time you reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters, temperatures can drop well below freezing, even in the best trekking seasons. Packing layers is the golden rule.
Base Layers
- Thermal tops and bottoms: Moisture-wicking thermals keep you warm and dry by pulling sweat away from your body. Essential for cold nights in Namche Bazaar and beyond.
- Lightweight T-shirts: For warmer days at lower altitudes. Choose quick-dry materials, not cotton.
Mid Layers
- Fleece jacket or pullover: A warm, breathable layer for evenings and higher altitudes.
- Insulated jacket (synthetic or down): By 2026, ultralight down jackets are widely available and packable, offering great warmth without bulk.
Outer Layers
- Waterproof shell jacket: A durable, breathable rain jacket with a hood is crucial for snow or rain showers.
- Waterproof trekking pants: Lightweight and easy to pull on when the weather turns.
Trekking Clothing
- Convertible trekking pants: Breathable and versatile, often worn most of the trek.
- Warm trekking pants: For colder days higher up.
- Underwear and sports bras (if applicable): Quick-dry fabric is essential.
Accessories
- Warm hat and sun hat: A woolen beanie for cold nights and a wide-brimmed sun hat for protection at lower altitudes.
- Gloves: Lightweight liner gloves plus insulated, waterproof outer gloves for high altitudes.
- Buff or neck gaiter: Multi-use for warmth and dust protection.
- Socks: A mix of lightweight trekking socks and thicker merino wool socks. Carry enough pairs for 10–12 days.
2. Footwear
Your feet carry you the whole way, so prioritize comfort and quality.
- Trekking boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in before the trek. Avoid brand-new boots for this journey.
- Camp shoes or sandals: For resting your feet in the evenings at teahouses. Crocs or lightweight sandals are popular.
- Gaiters: Useful in snow or muddy sections to keep your boots dry.
3. Sleeping Gear
Accommodation along the EBC trail is in teahouses, but they can be basic, especially at higher altitudes. Packing your own gear ensures a good night’s sleep.
- Sleeping bag: Rated to at least -15°C, as nights at Gorak Shep can be bitterly cold. In 2026, ultralight down sleeping bags are widely available.
- Sleeping bag liner: Adds warmth and keeps your sleeping bag clean.
- Travel pillow or inflatable pillow: Optional but adds comfort.
4. Trekking Gear
These are the tools that make the trek smoother and safer.
- Trekking poles: Essential for stability on steep climbs and descents. By 2026, carbon-fiber collapsible poles are lightweight and reliable.
- Backpack (40–50 liters): Comfortable with padded straps and a hip belt. Big enough for essentials but not overly heavy.
- Daypack (20 liters): If you hire a porter, this is what you’ll carry yourself—water, snacks, camera, jacket.
- Rain cover: For both main backpack and daypack.
- Dry bags or packing cubes: Keep gear organized and safe from moisture.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of trekking at altitude.
- Reusable water bottles: At least two 1-liter bottles. Plastic bottles are discouraged in Nepal for environmental reasons.
- Hydration bladder (CamelBak): Convenient for sipping water while trekking.
- Water purification system: UV sterilizer (like Steripen), filter bottle (LifeStraw), or purification tablets.
- Snacks and energy bars: While meals are available at teahouses, energy bars, trail mix, or chocolate provide quick boosts during long stretches.
6. Health and First Aid
Altitude and physical exertion make health preparation vital. By 2026, digital tools may assist, but old-school essentials are still key.
- First aid kit: Include bandages, blister plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and rehydration salts.
- Altitude sickness medication: Acetazolamide (Diamox), carried under medical advice.
- Personal prescriptions: Carry enough for the whole trek.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: Water isn’t always available for washing.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with SPF: The Himalayan sun is intense.
- Insect repellent: Useful at lower altitudes, though less needed higher up.
7. Toiletries and Hygiene
Basic hygiene can make a huge difference to comfort.
- Toilet paper: Not provided at teahouses, so always carry a supply.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap: Eco-friendly products reduce impact on the fragile environment.
- Quick-dry towel: Small and compact.
- Moisturizer and face wipes: Cold, dry air can be harsh on skin.
8. Gadgets and Technology
In 2026, trekkers rely increasingly on tech—but power is limited at higher altitudes, so plan wisely.
- Smartphone with trekking apps (offline maps): GPS-enabled apps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS.
- Power bank (20,000 mAh or more): Essential for recharging phones or cameras.
- Solar charger: Lightweight panels can be clipped to your backpack.
- Headlamp with spare batteries: Vital for early starts or power cuts.
- Camera or GoPro: For capturing memories, but keep weight in mind.
- Universal travel adapter: Many teahouses charge for power use.
9. Documents and Money
Paperwork is just as important as gear.
- Passport and visas: Ensure your Nepal visa is valid for the duration of your trek.
- Permits: In 2026, you’ll still need the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. Trekking companies usually arrange these.
- Travel insurance documents: Must cover trekking up to 6,000 meters and helicopter evacuation.
- Cash in Nepali rupees: ATMs are unreliable in the mountains. Carry enough to cover meals, snacks, charging fees, and tips.
10. Optional Comfort Items
These aren’t strictly essential but can improve the overall trekking experience.
- Earplugs: Teahouses can be noisy with thin walls.
- Reading material or Kindle: For downtime in the evenings.
- Journal and pen: Many trekkers love recording their experience.
- Lightweight games or cards: Great for passing time in groups.
- Small gifts for locals: Something simple, like stationery for children, is always appreciated.
Packing Tips for 2026
- Pack light: Keep your main bag under 12–15 kg if you’re carrying it yourself. Porters generally carry up to 20–25 kg, but it’s considerate to keep loads lighter.
- Use layers: Instead of packing one heavy jacket, use multiple lighter layers that can be added or removed easily.
- Test gear before departure: Break in boots and try your backpack on shorter hikes before heading to Nepal.
- Think sustainability: Avoid single-use plastics. Nepal’s trekking routes are fragile ecosystems, and trekkers have a responsibility to protect them.
Final Thoughts
The Everest Base Camp trek is as much about preparation as it is about endurance and adventure. By 2026, gear and technology will make trekking easier, but the fundamentals remain the same: pack wisely, stay safe, and respect the mountains.
Categorizing your packing list—clothing, gear, health, documents, and comforts—ensures you don’t miss essentials while avoiding unnecessary weight. With the right equipment, you’ll be ready to focus on what really matters: the breathtaking landscapes of the Khumbu, the warmth of Sherpa hospitality, and the unforgettable moment of standing at the foot of Mount Everest.
Your pack is your companion on the journey. Pack smart, travel light, and make your Everest Base Camp trek in 2026 the adventure of a lifetime.
