Kilimanjaro Packing List
Packing appropriately for your Kilimanjaro climb is crucial for your comfort and safety. Below is a comprehensive list to help you prepare.
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: Rated to 0°F (-15°C).
Sleeping Mat: Provided for you.
Sleeping Bag Liner: For added warmth or if you rent a sleeping bag.
Compression Sack: For your sleeping bag.
Packs & Bags
Waterproof Duffel Bag: 80-100 litres.
Daypack: 25-35 litres.
Waterproof Pack Cover: To protect your gear.
Compression Sacks or Waterproof Bags: 6-8.
Packing Cubes (Optional): For better organisation within your duffel bag.
Bag Lock: For securing your duffel bag.
Footwear & Trekking Poles
Hiking Boots: Waterproof and mid-weight.
Running Shoes/Light Hikers: For use around camp.
Gaiters: To keep debris out of your boots.
Socks:
5-6 pairs of liner socks (wool or synthetic; no cotton).
4-6 pairs of thick thermal socks (no cotton) for summit night.
Spare Laces: For hiking boots.
Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for stability.
Gloves
Thin Gloves: Wool or synthetic (no cotton).
Thick Waterproof Gloves or Mittens: For warmth.
Clothing: Lower Body
Underwear: (No cotton).
Convertibles or Shorts: One pair.
Light to Medium Weight Base Layer: 1-2 pieces.
Hiking Pants: (No cotton).
Winter Hiking Pants: Insulated for colder conditions.
Waterproof Shell Pants: Preferably with side zippers.
Clothing: Upper Body
Comfortable Sports Bra: (Ladies only).
Lightweight T-Shirts: 1-2 (no cotton).
Lightweight Long-Sleeved T-Shirts: 1-2 (no cotton).
Light to Mid-Weight Base Layers: 2-3 pieces.
Fleece Jacket: For insulation.
Insulated Shell Jacket: For warmth.
Down Jacket: Approx. 750-fill for added warmth.
Waterproof Shell Jacket: To fit over all layers.
Headwear
Brim Hat or Cap: With neck protection.
Warm Hat: With ear flaps.
Neck Gaiter or Buff: Versatile for warmth.
Sunglasses: Rated 100% UV protection.
Head Torch: Don’t forget spare batteries.
Water & Snacks
Hydration Bladder: 2-3 litres (Platypus, Camelbak, etc.).
Wide-Mouth Water Bottles: 1-2 litres (Nalgene or similar).
Electrolyte/Sports Drink Powder: For adding to water.
Snacks: Energy bars (plan for 2-4 per day).
Water Purification Tablets or Filter Pen: We provide boiled/filtered water.
Personal Health & Comfort
Toiletries: Toothbrush & paste, hairbrush/comb, foot powder, hand cream, deodorant.
Baby Wipes: Anti-bacterial.
Regular Medication: Any personal prescriptions.
Hand Sanitizer Gel: Such as Purell.
Fingernail Brush and Nail Clippers.
Ear Plugs: For better sleep.
Sunscreen: SPF 40+.
Microfiber Quick-Dry Towel.
Pee Bottle: For night-time needs.
Small Torch: In addition to head torch.
Pocket Knife: Swiss Army Knife or similar.
Spare Contact Lenses/Glasses.
Toilet Paper: 1-2 rolls (remove the cardboard center for easier packing).
Camera/Phone/iPod/Kindle: For entertainment and memories.
Spare Batteries: For devices.
Personal First Aid Kit
Blister Plasters: Various shapes and sizes.
Antibiotic Cream or Ointment.
Band-Aids/Elastoplast: For minor cuts and scrapes.
Pain Relief: Ibuprofen/Paracetamol.
Skin Healing Ointment: Such as Aquaphor.
Imodium: For diarrhoea.
Anti-Nausea Medication: 4 tablets.
Prescription Medications: Any personal prescriptions.
Diamox: If you’re using it for altitude sickness.
Ladies Only
Menstrual Supplies: Plan to change your tampon or pad 3-4 times daily.
Ziplock Bags: For used tampons/pads (these must be carried off the mountain).
Anti-Bacterial Hand Sanitizer: To keep hands clean regularly.
Baby Wipes: For personal hygiene.
Pee Funnel: For those who want the option to stand while urinating.
By preparing thoroughly with the items listed above, you’ll enhance your comfort and safety during your Kilimanjaro adventure. Enjoy the climb!