Himalayas, the word when heard, redirects our brain to generate images if not thoughts of snowcapped places, highest point on earth, tallest mountains, high altitude, pointy peaks closer to the sky, and so on and so forth. As mighty is the mountain, to get closer to it will require certain accessories without which no human dares to be in its proximity. And they are right not to dare. Mountain is beautiful, but mountain weather is cruel and ruthless. If one does not have the right gear or does not follow acclimatization technique properly, that could well be the last of the memories your brain garners.
Now, without beating around the bushes, let’s dive deeper into the essentials that will keep you alive in the mountains. I will also try to provide you with the information on why you need certain equipment.
Physical and Mental fitness: This is the first and foremost in my list and I understand, it’s a little unorthodoxy for you to find your certain traits in the packing list. But, as mentioned above, mountain weather can rip you apart in no time. You don’t need to have a ripped body or drink water from fountain of youth; however, you should be able to walk at least 4-6 hours a day in the rough terrains both uphill and downhill.
Warm clothing and a sunglass: Mountain weather is cold and windy throughout the year. Air is chilly and at times you can feel it to the bones. Woolen clothing and a good down jacket will always come in handy. And don’t forget to pack air and waterproof winter gloves, socks, beanie, and a scarf with other apparels of your choice. To protect yourself from temporary blindness and to make yourself look cool, please put on a Sunglasses with polarized lenses.
Trekking boots: Make sure your boots are lightweight with good traction, preferably with protective toe cap. It needs to be waterproof, with high-ankle cuffs, and last but not the least comfortable.
Water purifying tablets and reusable water bottles: Whenever you get a chance, fill your water bottles with boiled water. It might cost you some money but trust me, it’s more than worth it. In case you don’t find boiled water, use the purifying tablets (or liquids). Those commercial tablets will take about 30 minutes to cleanse your water. Follow proper guidelines before using.
Sleeping bag: Rent or purchase a sleeping bag before heading off to the mountains. Glory Himalayan Trek and Tours will provide you one free of charge. The famous trails such as Everest base camp, Annapurna base camp, etc., now has tea houses that provide you with comfortable blankets, however, during the peak season they might not be able to spare you one. At times you might have to share room with strangers, being wrapped inside sleeping bag not only keeps you warm, you can also put your valuables inside the sleeping bag.
First aid kit: If you booked your trip with Glory Himalayan Trek and Tours then you need not worry about First Aid Kit. It is the company policy for our guides to have First Aid Kit with them at all times during the trek.
Sunscreen: As you climb high, air gets thinner, which accounts for stronger UV rays. To protect yourself from sunburn, we suggest you carry a spf 50 or higher sunscreen.
Compressed Oxygen: As we all know that the higher altitude you are in, the lesser is air density, meaning low oxygen levels. To provide you with a perspective, Everest base camp has about half the oxygen available than that of sea level atmosphere. In Layman term, you have to breathe twice to get same amount of oxygen in Everest base camp which you can get in one breathe around sea levels. Carrying compressed Oxygen will buy you time in need, while waiting on rescue helicopters. This is also a time when you should have a stronger mental fitness.
Head Lamp: With cell phones availability, head lamp seems to be losing its charm. However, when travelling on off-the-beaten trail or around Himalayas, you would want both of your hands to be free. Which is why, I suggest you include head lamp in your essential’s checklist.
Some safety tips:
When travelling on a higher altitude (more than 3000m or higher), there are multiple things to consider including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). I will point out some of the basic life saving tips in here:
- Climb high, sleep low
- Stay hydrated
- Keep power bars, snacks, chocolates, etc. with you at all times
- Carry compressed oxygen
- First aid kit
- Gamow bag if possible
Planning the trip with right mindset, equipment, and guidance will not only bring you closer to the mountains, but to yourself. At Glory Himalayan Trek and Tours, we ensure that you are fully equipped to trek safely and confidently.
Authored by Shivaraj Dawady (Executive Director).
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