Annapurna Base Camp Trek Packing List: Complete Gear Checklist
ABC is a teahouse trek to 4,130 m, so you pack light but warm. Here is a complete, category-by-category checklist, and what to rent rather than buy.
Packing Principles
Because ABC is a teahouse trek, you sleep in lodges and eat cooked meals, so there is no tent, stove or food to carry. The two rules that matter:
- Layer, don't bulk. Temperatures swing from warm forest to below-freezing nights at base camp. Three thin layers beat one thick one.
- Keep it light. If a porter carries your duffel, aim for under 10–12 kg; your daypack holds water, layers and valuables.
Clothing (the layering system)
| Layer | Items |
|---|---|
| Base | 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts, 1–2 thermal tops & bottoms (merino or synthetic, no cotton) |
| Mid | 1 fleece or light insulated jacket, 1 pair trekking trousers (+ convertible/shorts for low down) |
| Outer | Down jacket (essential for ABC/MBC), waterproof + windproof shell jacket and trousers |
| Extremities | Warm hat, sun hat/cap, buff, liner + warm gloves, 3–4 pairs trekking socks, sun glasses (UV) |
Footwear & Gear
- Broken-in trekking boots with ankle support, the single most important item.
- Camp shoes/sandals for evenings in the lodge.
- Trekking poles, strongly recommended for the long stone descents.
- Daypack (25–35 L) with a rain cover.
- Duffel/kit bag if using a porter.
- Sleeping bag rated to about −10 °C (lodges provide blankets, but a bag is warmer and more hygienic).
- Headlamp + spare batteries.
- Water bottles/bladder (2–3 L) + purification (filter, tablets or SteriPen).
- Power bank, charging costs money and is scarce high up.
Documents, Toiletries & Medical Kit
Documents
- Passport + photocopies, ACAP & TIMS permits (see permits guide), passport photos, travel insurance with helicopter-evacuation cover, cash in Nepali rupees.
Toiletries
- High-SPF sunscreen and SPF lip balm (UV is fierce at altitude), quick-dry towel, biodegradable soap, hand sanitiser, wet wipes, toilet paper, personal hygiene items.
Medical kit
- Blister plasters, painkillers, rehydration salts, anti-diarrhoea and broad-spectrum antibiotics (consult your doctor), throat lozenges, any personal medication.
- Acetazolamide (Diamox) if your doctor advises it, see the altitude sickness guide.
What to Rent in Pokhara (and Seasonal Tweaks)
You do not need to buy everything. Pokhara's trekking shops rent the bulky, expensive items cheaply, typically NPR 100–200/day each:
- Down jacket and sleeping bag, the two best things to rent if you don't own them.
- Trekking poles and duffel bags are also widely available.
Pokhara is also the place to buy last-minute socks, sunscreen, snacks and (genuine or otherwise) gear at lower prices than home.
Seasonal adjustments
- Winter (Dec–Feb): add a warmer sleeping bag, extra thermals, gaiters and microspikes for snow.
- Spring/monsoon edges (Apr–May): add strong insect repellent and full rain gear for afternoon showers.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov): the standard list above is ideal; nights are cold, so don't skimp on the down jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Pack a three-layer clothing system (base, fleece/mid, down + waterproof shell), broken-in boots, trekking poles, a −10 °C sleeping bag, headlamp, water purification, a power bank, sun protection, documents and a small medical kit. Because ABC is a teahouse trek you need no tent, stove or food.
Do I need a down jacket for ABC?
Yes. Nights at Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base Camp drop well below freezing even in peak season, so a down jacket is essential. If you do not own one, rent it cheaply in Pokhara.
Can I rent trekking gear in Pokhara?
Yes. Pokhara has many trekking shops renting down jackets, sleeping bags, poles and duffels for around NPR 100–200 per day each, which is ideal if you do not want to buy bulky kit for one trip.
How heavy should my pack be for ABC?
If a porter carries your main duffel, keep it under about 10–12 kg. Your own daypack should hold only water, snacks, layers, valuables and documents, typically 4–7 kg.
Do I need a sleeping bag if teahouses have blankets?
Teahouses provide blankets, but a sleeping bag rated to about −10 °C is warmer and more hygienic, especially at the cold high lodges. It is one of the most worthwhile items to bring or rent.
By the BriefNepal Travel Desk
Researched and maintained by our Nepal-based editorial team and reviewed for accuracy. Last updated June 22, 2026. Prices, permits and conditions change, always verify before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.
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