Island Peak Climb

Brimmed cap for hot, high-UV trail days.

Warm hat for mornings above the treeline.

Dust, wind and cold on high passes.

Category 4 lenses for snow glare.

Pre-dawn starts and unlit teahouse corridors.

Wicking next-to-skin layer for cold mornings.

Sun protection on exposed ridges.

Warmth at rest stops without bulk.

Camp and high-altitude evenings.

Hooded jacket for rain and wind.

Quick-dry pants for long walking days.

Base layer for cold nights and high camps.

Keep legs dry on monsoon or snow days.

Warm valley days at the start of the trek.

Several pairs; cotton stays wet.

Ankle support on rocky, uneven trails.

Air feet out at the lodge.

Three to four pairs, rotated daily.

Reduce blisters on long descent days.

Keep snow and scree out of boots.

Morning starts and windy ridges.

Teahouse rooms are unheated.

Water, layers, camera and snacks.

Save knees on long descents.

Refill at lodges; purification as backup.

Tablets or a filter for trail water.

Nuts, bars and glucose for long days.

Replace salt lost at altitude.

Lodges have limited washing water.

Compact towel for occasional showers.

Basic kit; carry-on size.

Not always provided above Namche.

Before meals on the trail.

Blister care, pain relief, personal meds.

Talk to your doctor before you fly.

UV is fierce above 4,000 m.

Stops cracking in dry, cold air.

Checkpoints will ask; keep a spare set dry.

Lodge charging is slow and often extra.

Nepal uses a mix of sockets.

Download the route before Lukla.