A Comprehensive Packing List for Your Next Hiking Expedition
Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and hike Mount Kilimanjaro? Our ultimate packing list has got you covered. Our expertly curated list of must-have items will ensure that you're fully equipped to tackle the mountain, no matter your hiking experience level. From clothing to gear to personal items, our comprehensive list strikes the perfect balance between essentials and packability, so you can travel light without sacrificing the things you need. Don't risk being unprepared - trust our packing list to help you reach the summit of Kilimanjaro.
The Benefits and Limitations of Supported Kilimanjaro Treks
Embarking on a supported Kilimanjaro trek is a popular choice for many hikers, as it allows you to focus on reaching the summit while a team of guides, cooks, and porters take care of everything else.
From carrying your main bag to setting up camp and providing meals, our team is dedicated to making your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. However, it's important to note that there is a weight limit that must be adhered to, so that everyone on the team can travel safely and comfortably.
Additionally, it's crucial to consider the well-being of our porters, who work tirelessly to make your trek possible. To ensure their welfare and comfort, we ask that you pack light and only bring the essentials. Trust us to handle the rest, and focus on enjoying the experience of a lifetime.
Our porters work tirelessly to ensure that your gear and equipment are transported safely and efficiently during your Kilimanjaro trek. To help them do their job, we kindly ask that you avoid bringing hard cases and instead opt for a more flexible bag option. We offer the Highlander Lomond Bag for rent, which can be picked up in Moshi upon your arrival. This bag will then be placed inside a larger protective sack carried by the porters, keeping your belongings safe and secure from the elements. Trust us to handle your gear with care, and focus on the incredible journey ahead.
When it comes to your day pack for your Kilimanjaro trek, choosing the right size and features is crucial. This is the bag that you'll carry with you every day, so it's important to make sure it has enough space to accommodate your essentials such as water bottles, spare layers, and cameras. For your convenience, we offer the Vorlich 40L day pack for rent. This pack is designed with a rain cover to protect your gear from wet weather, making it an ideal choice for your trip.
Keeping your gear dry and protected from the elements is a top priority on any Kilimanjaro trek. To ensure that your belongings stay safe and dry, we recommend wrapping them in waterproof bags. Not only will this keep your gear dry in case of rain or snow, but it's also a great way to store used clothes during your trek. Choose the right size for your needs and rest assured that your gear will be well-protected throughout your journey. Focus on the incredible experience of climbing Kilimanjaro, and let us take care of the rest.
We understand the importance of keeping your gear dry and protected during your Kilimanjaro trek. To ensure your main bag stays dry, we will place it in additional waterproof sacks in case of rain. However, we also recommend bringing a cover for your day pack to protect your gear while you're on the move. For your convenience, we offer day pack covers for rent to ensure that your gear stays dry and protected throughout your journey. Trust us to handle your gear with care, and focus on the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences of your Kilimanjaro trek.
When it comes to packing for your Kilimanjaro trek, it's important to bring the right gear and clothing while keeping your luggage manageable. We recommend bringing an extra bag or case to leave at the hotel with your travel clothes inside. This can be used as a hold bag if needed, but many trekkers prefer to transfer their Kilimanjaro clothes and kit to a rented duffel bag upon arrival. This not only allows for easier transportation of your gear but also ensures that your travel clothes remain safe and separate from your trekking gear. Follow these packing tips to make the most of your Kilimanjaro trekking experience.
Sleeping Comfortably on Your Kilimanjaro Trek
Getting a good night's sleep is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. Your choice of sleeping bag and sleep accessories will depend on your personal needs and preferences, but rest assured that we provide 2-inch foam covered mattresses to ensure your comfort throughout the night. Whether you prefer a lightweight sleeping bag or a warmer one, we recommend bringing a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C to ensure that you stay warm and comfortable. With our mattresses and your preferred sleeping gear, you'll be well-rested and ready to take on the next day's adventures on Kilimanjaro.
As you plan your Kilimanjaro trek, it's important to choose the right sleeping gear to ensure that you stay warm and comfortable throughout the night. While 3 season sleeping bags are sufficient for the warmer months, trekkers who get cold easily may want to upgrade to a 4 season sleeping bag, especially during the colder months from October through the new year. Alternatively, you can use a 3 season bag with a fleece liner for added warmth. If you don't have your own sleeping bag, don't worry - we've got you covered. We rent out 4 season sleeping bags rated to -5°C, which come with cotton liners to keep the bag clean and ensure your comfort. Rest easy knowing that you have the right gear for a comfortable and memorable Kilimanjaro trek.
Sleeping bag liners can be a valuable addition to your gear for a Kilimanjaro trek. Not only do they provide added warmth, but a good quality fleece liner can also convert a 3 season bag to a 4 season bag, making it versatile and adaptable to different temperatures. Silk liners are also a great option, providing warmth while being less bulky and easier to pack. Additionally, we recommend using a cotton liner to keep your sleeping bag clean and fresh during your trek. Consider adding a liner to your gear list to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable night's sleep on your Kilimanjaro adventure.
While not necessary, some trekkers may desire extra insulation for their sleeping bag during their Kilimanjaro adventure. Our foam mattresses are provided and will suffice, but an additional layer of insulation can provide added comfort and warmth. Options for extra insulation include inflatable Thermarests or lightweight Exped mats, but these can sometimes slide over the provided mattress. For the best results, we recommend using a closed-cell camping mat as a reliable and secure layer of insulation. Consider adding an extra layer of comfort to your sleeping arrangements for a restful and rejuvenating experience on your Kilimanjaro trek.
Getting a good night's sleep is crucial to your Kilimanjaro trek's success, and having a comfortable pillow can make all the difference. While soft pillows can be easily packed into a small space, some trekkers may opt to make a pillow out of their clothing. Whether you choose to pack a soft pillow or create one from your clothing, ensuring a comfortable sleep is essential to maintaining your energy levels and achieving your trekking goals.
If you need to use the restroom at night, it's recommended to wear something lightweight and not too tight in your sleeping bag. Sleeping bags are designed to work best without layers or socks, but a T-shirt, leggings or thermal bottoms will suffice. In case you get cold, place something between the end of the sleeping bag and the tent wall and wear a hat. For added comfort, pillows are recommended and can easily be packed small. Alternatively, you can make a pillow out of your clothing.
At Explore Active, we offer a wide range of equipment rentals that are provided to you upon arrival at the hotel. Our rental options include sleeping bags with cotton liners, duffle bags in two sizes, 40L day packs, dry bags in various sizes, rucksack covers, trekking poles, waterproof tops and bottoms, gaiters, gloves and mitts, ponchos, and umbrellas.
Kilimanjaro’s altitude creates its own micro-climate above the cloud level which is cold and very changeable. You will be exposed to the elements at all times, experiencing a big daily temperature range, from 18 degrees C in the rainforest to minus 5 degrees C on the summit, which can easily be lower with wind. To stay comfortable, it is essential to have the right clothing and to use a layering system that can be adjusted as conditions change. You will need to make slight changes to your clothing every day, adding warmer layers, gloves and hats as you climb higher.
Select an outer layer with breathability such as Gore-Tex, which will assist in removing moisture and keep you dry inside. Check that it has a hood and that you can comfortably fit your other layers of fleece and lightweight down underneath.
For summit night and evenings, it's important to have a down jacket or a thick fleece. If you opt for a lightweight down jacket, it's recommended to also bring a fleece jacket along with the outer shell layer on top. Synthetic down is a better option as it remains warm even when damp or wet. Keep in mind that having a breathable outer shell layer like Gore-Tex can help wick out moisture and keep you dry inside. Ensure that the outer layer has a hood and that you can comfortably fit your other layers of fleece and lightweight down underneath.
For your Kilimanjaro trek, a midlayer fleece or equivalent jumper is recommended to wear over your T-shirts and under your jacket. One or two of these should be enough to keep you warm and comfortable during the trek.
Base layers or thermals are crucial for providing warmth on cold evenings and summit night. Women should also bring leggings, which are useful for the first few days of walking. These layers should be lightweight and easy to pack. Consider bringing one or two sets, depending on the length of your trip.
Recommended hiking pants are those made of quick-drying materials. Avoid cotton and jeans as they do not dry easily and are not suitable for mountain trekking. Some trekking pants have zip-off legs that can be converted into shorts, but you may also bring a separate pair of shorts for the forest stage. One or two pairs of hiking pants should suffice.
When selecting shirts or tops for trekking, it is recommended to avoid cotton and opt for quick-dry materials. Two or three trekking shirts are sufficient for the first few days of the hike. T-shirts and sports tops can also be used, but it is advised to wear a fleece layer on top to keep you warm when you take a break. You may choose between short or long sleeves depending on your preference.
Having a fresh pair of underwear each day is recommended. Cotton can retain moisture and cause discomfort, so it's better to choose synthetic or merino wool materials. You should also bring a dry bag to store used clothing in your duffle. Merino wool is a natural fiber that is naturally moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, insulating when wet, and quick-drying. It is soft and gentle on the skin and not too hot in warmer temperatures. Synthetic materials, which are usually made of nylon and spandex, are also comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying. They are cheaper than merino wool. Consider choosing a fitted style, such as hipster or bikini brief, which will not ride up or cause chafing. For men, it's also best to avoid loose shorts that can bunch up.
Gloves are a crucial item for climbing Kilimanjaro. Fleece gloves with a waterproof outer layer and thin inner gloves are recommended for most days, but on summit night, it's best to use mitts to keep your hands warm. If needed, you can rent waterproof gloves and fleece gloves from us.
Proper foot care is crucial for a successful mountain climb. Take the necessary steps to prevent pain and blisters by trimming your nails before departure and keeping your feet clean and dry. Foot talcum powder can be helpful, but be sure to wash it off at the end of the day. Be prepared by packing blister pads and changing your socks daily.
It is recommended to wear leather boots for mountain climbing, and ensure they are well-treated with dubbin to prevent water from seeping in. Fabric boots may get wet during heavy rain, but those with Gore-Tex lining can stay dry in light showers. The boots should provide adequate ankle support and have a stiff midsole to prevent excessive bending. You can refer to our trekking boot guide for more information. Keep in mind that your feet may swell at higher altitudes and after a day's walk, so make sure you have enough room for movement at home while wearing your summit socks.
To prepare for the unforgiving terrain of Kilimanjaro, it is recommended to bring spare boot laces and extra dry footbeds in case your feet get damp. These precautions can help prevent discomfort and injury during the climb.
For the initial days, trekking socks will suffice - one pair per day for the first five days. However, for the summit night, a wool blend is the warmest option, but make sure they fit comfortably in your boot without causing any tightness. Socks can be either long or short.
Consider taking off your boots and allowing them to air out once you arrive at the campsite. It's a good idea to pack a pair of camp shoes, like trainers, lightweight walking shoes, or sandals, to wear around camp and for late-night bathroom breaks.
To protect yourself from losing body heat and the risks of sunburn and sunstroke, it's essential to keep your head warm and covered during your Kilimanjaro trek. The headwear you choose should offer insulation against the cold and provide protection from the sun's intense UV rays at high altitude. A warm beanie or a hat made of synthetic materials like polyester or fleece can be a good option to keep your head warm. Meanwhile, a brimmed hat or a cap with a sun flap can shield your face and neck from harmful sun rays. Consider packing both options and choosing which one to wear based on the weather and temperature.
The Buff is a commonly used accessory on treks and climbs, providing effective protection against the sun, dust, and wind. Buffs are available in a variety of materials, including stretchy thin fabrics and fleece. Scarves or snoods can also be used as alternatives.
To avoid the harmful effects of strong UV rays, it's crucial to protect your eyes during the Kilimanjaro trek. Sunglasses with UV400 protection are a must-have and it's advisable to choose a pair with side protection. Prescription glasses that change color may not offer adequate UV protection and their lenses may not be large enough to shield the eyes from the rays.
Protecting yourself from the sun is crucial when climbing Kilimanjaro as it can cause sunstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Wearing a sun hat with a brim is essential to shield your head and neck from the intense UV rays. Make sure to wear it at all times when it's sunny.
When temperatures drop, it's crucial to retain body heat by wearing a warm thermal hat. Ensure that the hat fully covers your ears and is not too snug
For those who enjoy listening to music or podcasts while trekking, headphones are a great option. Additionally, they can also be useful in blocking out noise from other hikers who snore while you're trying to sleep.
Wearing contact lenses on Kilimanjaro is generally safe and won't be affected by the altitude or low pressure. However, maintaining hygiene and handling the lenses in a tent can be challenging, and the dry air and wind may cause dryness of the eyes. Daily disposable lenses are a good option, but it's important to bring saline drops and your usual cleaning liquids as well as your glasses.
While there are no permanent shower or bathing facilities on Mount Kilimanjaro, there are some options available to keep clean. At the camps, you can find a bowl of hot water to wash your face and hands. For larger groups, a shower tent can be provided with a bag of water that has been warmed up by the sun. In addition, you can ask the guides to provide a bowl of hot water for a wash in your tent.
Extras for men:
Small mirror, razor and shaving cream - Elemis shave gel has aloe vera and witch hazel to help with your skin after a day in the sun and wind
Pee bottle - useful but takes some practise, use hard plastic bottle well marked.
Extras for women:
Pee cloth is useful, we recommend Kula cloth.
Feminine wipes - a natural wipe like Swipes Lovin Wipes, Goodwipes or Rael.
Menstrual cup - these silicone cups can stay in for up to 12 hours without odor or discomfort and are re-usable. OrganiCup is certified hypoallergenic and toxin-free
It's always a good idea to be prepared for small repairs during your trip, as even the smallest issues can be an annoyance, from tears in jackets to jammed zips. Bringing along a repair kit can give you peace of mind and can come in handy in many situations.
Keep a small roll of tape on hand for quick repairs to any rips or tears.
The pliers help with stuck or broken zips
Useful to pin a jacket together if the zip is completely broken
You need to be self-sufficient with power on the mountain as there are no charging facilities available.
Having a headlamp is crucial for the summit night when you require your hands free for scrambling or using poles, as well as for going to the bathroom at night. There are various options to choose from, but a Tikka A headlamp would be sufficient. Make sure to carry one spare set of batteries for the summit night.
While optional, a tracking device can be very useful to monitor your progress on the mountain. Some climbers opt for a satellite tracking device like SPOT to allow people back home to follow their route.
While smartphones are commonly used, they can be challenging to operate with gloves on unless you have a selfie stick. For better quality pictures, a digital camera is recommended, and a lightweight tripod can be useful for night photography. Remember to bring spare SD cards and battery packs, as the cold weather can quickly drain their power.
Smartphones are useful for apps and capturing moments on the mountain; however, it is crucial to acknowledge the limited phone and data signal. Acquiring a Tanzanian SIM card can cut down on expenses. Moreover, there are various websites offering beneficial apps to discover.
The climbing guides are equipped with an extensive first aid kit, a mountain shelter, oxygen bottles, a mask, and a stretcher on every climb. Additionally, we provide literature on various medications and high altitude sickness for your reference. However, it is recommended that you also carry a personal first aid kit for minor injuries. For further advice, you can visit First Aid Anywhere.
Consider bringing anti-malarial tablets, although they are not needed on the mountain as there are no mosquitoes at high altitudes. In addition, it is recommended to pack a general antibiotic to treat bacterial infections, Imodium or Lomotil to address diarrhea, inhalers if you need them, and painkillers such as Tylenol or ibuprofen for headaches. Don't forget throat lozenges to soothe a dry throat.
While we carry high altitude sickness medication in our medical kits and our guides are trained to administer them, it may be advisable for you to bring your own medication. Please note that these are prescription drugs and may have side effects. There are three types of medication used for high altitude sickness and it is crucial that you read the information provided about each one before deciding whether or not to bring them with you.
Diamox (acetazolamide) is the most widely used drug to prevent altitude sickness, but its effectiveness depends on following mountaineering principles, such as maintaining a slow pace. We provide information and advice on taking Diamox in our blog, which you can read for more details.
Dexamethasone is a useful medication for both preventing and treating AMS and HACE, and it can also prevent the development of HAPE (pulmonary oedema). Nifedipine, on the other hand, can effectively treat HAPE by reducing pulmonary arterial pressure.
It is important to note that in the event of serious altitude sickness, the guides will take immediate action and arrange for descent, day or night, using all available resources to ensure the safety of the affected person. This may include utilizing helicopter services, rescue cars, stretchers, and the well-established Ranger network.
Nuum tablets are essential for hikers to replace lost body salts and prevent dehydration at high altitude. These tablets can be mixed with water to provide both hydration and energy.
Plasters are very useful for treating cracked skin and small cuts. For more serious injuries, a bandage with tape can be helpful. It is also important to bring Compeed blister pads for your feet, as well as a good quality tape to cover hot spots if necessary.
For minor cuts and scrapes, it's important to clean the wound thoroughly to prevent infection. Using antiseptic wipes or solution and sterile dressings can help protect the wound while it heals. It's also a good idea to let the wound breathe by removing any bandages periodically, as this can promote healing.
Dry and tired eyes are common at high altitudes due to low humidity levels and increased exposure to wind and sun. Using eye drops or a small eye bath can help relieve the discomfort and irritation caused by dust and dryness. It's recommended to bring eye drops specifically designed for dry eyes and to use them as needed.
Sunburn is a serious risk at high altitudes, so it is essential to bring a strong sunscreen. Opt for a long-lasting and waterproof option to avoid having to reapply it frequently. P20 is an excellent choice as it doesn't run and provides effective protection against the sun's harmful rays.
It is important to have a water bottle with you on your climb to stay hydrated. While Platypus or Camelbacks are also acceptable, the tubes may freeze on summit day and should be insulated. It is worth noting that disposable plastic bottles are now prohibited on Kilimanjaro and can result in a fine from the Rangers.
On summit night, it is important to stay warm and hydrated, and having a hot drink can be helpful. The guides will have large thermos flasks, but you may want to bring your own half liter or one liter flask. If you don't have one, they are available for rent.
Trekking poles are particularly useful during the descent on loose scree. If you are concerned about your knees, it is recommended to bring a pair of poles, ideally with suspension. Trekking poles are available for rent from Moshi.
Heated insoles are ideal for those who have poor circulation or get cold easily. However, the charcoal ones that react with oxygen may not work as well due to the high altitude and lack of oxygen in the air. Nonetheless, they can be useful for keeping your hands warm inside your mitts on summit night.
A microfiber travel towel is an optional item to bring on your Kilimanjaro trek. It is lightweight and dries quickly, making it convenient for use during the trip.
We do provide toilet paper, but you may wish to bring your own. If you choose to do so, please bring recycled toilet paper and keep it in a plastic bag.
While Kilimanjaro is at a high altitude which makes it almost mosquito-free, there are still mosquitos present in other parts of Tanzania. As such, it is recommended to bring insect repellent sprays for use upon arrival and during descent.
You will have some free time in the evenings, so consider bringing a book or a Kindle, a deck of cards, or a small game to help you relax.
Security code protection is superior to key-based protection when it comes to the best padlocks.
Remember to bring a photocopied version of your important documents, such as your passport and travel itinerary, and also take a photo of them on your phone as a backup in case of loss or theft while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
If you have traveled to a country where yellow fever is prevalent, such as Kenya, before arriving in Tanzania, you will only need to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate when entering Tanzania. Therefore, this requirement is only necessary if you are coming from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country.
Make sure to keep a hard copy of your travel insurance details and policy certificate, as well as a digital copy, in case you are unable to access your phone while on your trip. This will ensure that you have access to your important insurance information regardless of any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your travels.
It is recommended to bring both cash and credit cards for your trip to Mount Kilimanjaro. While the hotel may accept credit cards for bar bills, in most town areas, Tanzanian shillings are the primary mode of currency. It is advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases and transactions. You can exchange currencies such as sterling or euros, but US dollars are widely accepted and preferred. Make sure to plan accordingly to have a mix of both cash and credit cards to ensure you have access to the necessary funds during your trip.
It is advisable to keep a hard copy of your travel insurance policy, as airport security may require it upon your departure from Tanzania. Therefore, it is recommended to have a paper copy of your insurance policy with you while traveling to and from Mount Kilimanjaro to avoid any potential issues during airport security checks.
If you are a frequent climber or trekker, investing in your own equipment, boots, and sleeping bags can be beneficial. However, renting is also a viable option that can save you money and make packing much more convenient. In Tanzania, you can even rent last-minute items from us, providing you with the necessary gear for your Mount Kilimanjaro climb without the added expense and hassle of purchasing and packing your own equipment.
Our team is here to help you make it happen. We offer personalized travel planning services, whether you're looking to embark on a wildlife safari, unwind on a tropical beach, or climb Kilimanjaro.
If you have any questions or would like to work with us on your next adventure, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Simply fill out our enquiry form and we'll get back to you promptly.