Anyone heading to the mountains for the first time usually gets their first reality check while backpacking. There’s always someone on the trail taking half of their house “just in case.” Another trekker standing right next to him realized too late that a basic base layer would have helped a lot.
Shrikant Dhumale has seen this scene countless times. The Indian expedition leader and founder of Sagarmatha Explorers spent 22 years in the corporate world before turning his focus to high-altitude expeditions. Since then, he has guided trekkers on iconic routes including Everest Base Camp, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Elbrus, paying special attention to training, fitness and safety.
His advice is refreshingly simple. “Mountains are great teachers,” says Srikanth. “Carry too much, and they slow you down. Carry too little, and they make you miss it right away.”
In his experience, trekking at high altitude doesn’t have to mean packing more stuff. It’s all about packing the right gear. These are the ten essential things that he always carries with him before setting foot on any mountain path.
What you need to pack for your first trek
1. A backpack that becomes part of you (40 to 60L)
Your backpack quickly becomes your closest companion, so fit matters more than most people realize. Srikanth says he always reminds trackers to first pay attention to the waist belt. When the weight falls on your hips, your shoulders are relaxed, and long climbs feel more comfortable. And never forget the rain cover. A wet sleeping bag at altitude can make for a very long night.
A trekking backpack in the 40 to 60 liter range works well for most trips. Myntra has listed several practical options with rain covers, multiple compartments, and adjustable support for long travel days.
2. Trekking shoes are your most important investment
Srikanth says this is one place where trekkers should never try to save money. Good trekking shoes with full ankle support protect you on loose rocks, steep trails and long descents. The waterproof material helps keep your feet dry during sudden rain or muddy stretches. His biggest trick is simple. Always break in your shoes before a trek. The mountains are no place for brand new shoes and painful blisters.
Look for sturdy trekking shoes with strong grip, ankle support and a waterproof lining like Gore-Tex. A cushioned sole and breathable lining also make long walks more comfortable.
3. Easy to take off layering for the mountains
Trekking experts point out that the mountain weather rarely remains the same for long. One minute you’re sweating up a steep climb and the next moment you stop walking and you start feeling cold. This is why layering works much better than a single thick jacket. He typically starts with a base layer, adds a T-shirt, then a fleece or puffer jacket, and finishes with a windproof outer layer that can handle changing weather.
A good layering system starts with a merino wool base layer that manages sweat and heat. Add a lightweight middle layer and a protective outer shell so you can easily adjust clothing throughout the day.
4. Hydration is more important than you think
At altitude, your body loses water faster than you expect. Srikanth says that even breathing at high places makes you tired quickly. When trekkers reach approximately 4000 metres, hydration becomes essential for energy and health. He usually carries two one liter bottles with him and sips them regularly throughout the day. Hot water in a thermos also helps when the temperature drops rapidly.
Lightweight hiking bottles that are easy to refill and pack make this habit easy. Many trekkers also carry an insulated flask for hot water during colder parts of the trek.
5. Hands-free light or headlamp
Srikanth laughs when the trackers say his phone torch will do the trick. A proper headlamp becomes essential at the start of the summit or during late night walks around the camp. When the temperatures drop and the wind picks up, you’ll want both hands free to safely handle gear and balance on the trail.
A compact headlamp with adjustable brightness and a comfortable head strap works best. Rechargeable models or models with extra batteries are practical for multi-day treks.
6. Trekking poles to save your knees
Many young trekkers think that trekking poles are unnecessary. Srikanth completely disagrees with this. He says the poles act like two extra legs, especially during steep descents when the knees take the greatest impact. Using poles correctly can reduce stress on joints and help maintain balance on uneven terrain.
Lightweight trekking poles with adjustable height and comfortable grip are ideal. Collapsible design easily fits into a backpack when not in use during flat sections.
7. A proper medical kit
Srikanth believes that every tracker should carry a small medical kit. It doesn’t need to be complicated, just practical. Blister bandages, electrolyte pouches, basic pain relievers, and personal medications are often sufficient. The idea is simple. On the mountain, being prepared is part of being responsible.
Compact first aid kits designed for trekking usually include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and essential supplies. They pack neatly into a backpack and can handle most minor problems.
8. Real food for real energy
Srikanth often reminds trekkers that their appetite decreases at altitude, even though the body is constantly burning calories. Carrying snacks you actually enjoy helps keep energy levels steady during long climbs. Small bites taken regularly can make the difference between feeling exhausted and feeling stronger on the way.
Energy bars, dark chocolate and salted nuts work well because they pack easily and provide quick fuel. Choose foods that won’t easily melt or disintegrate inside your backpack.
9. Protection from rain when weather changes rapidly
Mountain weather can change in minutes. Srikanth says that he has seen bright sunshine turning into rain or hailstorm in a very short time. Staying dry becomes important not only for comfort but also for warmth and safety. Wet clothes at altitude can cool the body quickly.
A light poncho paired with rain pants or a good waterproof jacket provides reliable protection. Look for breathable materials, so you’ll stay dry without overheating during long hikes.
10. Sunglasses to protect your eyes
Srikanth says trackers often underestimate how intense the sun becomes at higher altitudes. Ice glare can be intense and affect vision for hours. That’s why a reliable pair of sunglasses is always a part of their gear list.
Polarized sunglasses with strong UV protection help protect eyes from bright sunlight. Some trekkers also carry yellow lenses for cloudy conditions and low visibility.
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