So you’re about to hit the trail to Everest Base Camp — flights are booked, boots are (hopefully) broken in, and excitement is bubbling over. But what if you still need to grab some gear?
No worries. Whether you’re in Kathmandu, already in Lukla, or making a final stop at Namche Bazaar, Nepal has you covered. Quite literally.
This guide breaks down what you should bring from home, what’s worth buying or renting locally, and how to avoid overpacking or overspending — all based on real trekker experiences.
Should I Buy Gear in Nepal?
Yes — and for many items, it’s a smart choice.
Most branded trekking gear sold in the West is manufactured in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam — the same places that supply the gear sold in Nepal. So while you might see the odd knockoff or “North Fake,” there are also reputable shops in Thamel and Namche selling good-quality gear at lower prices than you’d pay back home (especially in places like Australia, the US, or Europe).
You can also rent almost everything, which is a game-changer if you’re traveling light.
✅ What to Definitely Bring from Home
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Good quality sleeping bag (0°C or lower rating): If you already have a warm, reliable sleeping bag, bring it. Yes, lodges provide blankets, but they might not always be enough on freezing nights — especially at higher altitudes.
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Well-fitted hiking boots: You don’t want to gamble with new boots on steep Himalayan trails. Break them in before you arrive.
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Down jacket (if available): Lightweight and compressible. If it fits in your luggage, take it.
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Cold-weather base layers: Wool or synthetic. Avoid cotton.
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Gloves & beanie: Especially if you’re trekking from late autumn to early spring.
💬 “Bring a 0-degree sleeping bag and down jacket from home. If not, there are plenty of places to rent or buy in Kathmandu or Lukla.”
🛒 What You Can Rent or Buy in Nepal
Thamel (Kathmandu) – Best for wide selection & bargaining
You’ll find:
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Sleeping bags
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Down jackets
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Trekking poles
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Headlamps
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Backpacks
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Gloves, gaiters, hats, buffs
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Base layers and outer shells
Most shops offer rental options, and some will even let you test the gear first. Just don’t expect REI standards — test zippers, check linings, and try before you buy or rent.
💬 “You can get the whole kit in Thamel. There are multiple stores there.”
Lukla & Namche Bazaar – For last-second essentials
Yes, you can rent or buy gear even after your Lukla flight. Great for:
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Extra layers
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Trekking poles
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Sleeping bags (rentals)
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Down jackets (rentals)
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Crampons (when needed in icy seasons)
Expect to pay more here than in Kathmandu, and selection is limited, especially if you’re tall or have specific sizing needs.
💬 “I found a -40°C sleeping bag for rent at 400 NPR/night in Namche. Deposit was 20,000 NPR.”
Renting Tips (Save Your Back & Your Budget)
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Rental Cost: About NPR 100–300/day per item (less than $2–3 USD)
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Where to Rent: Thamel, Lukla, Namche (through shops or via guide contacts)
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What to Rent: Down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking poles, pack
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Pro tip: Use a sleeping bag liner if renting — gear is usually clean, but not freshly laundered every time.
💬 “I rented through my guide’s contacts. Clean gear, NPR 100 per day. Bag liner is a must!”
Avoid Overpacking: What You Probably Don’t Need
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Too many layers: You’ll end up wearing the same 2–3 combos on repeat.
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Heavy souvenirs from Namche: That yak wool blanket is cute… until you have to carry it uphill.
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Giant bottles of sunscreen: Small tube + reapply is better.
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Extra pair of shoes: One sturdy trekking boot and a lightweight camp shoe is enough.
💬 “We carried sleeping bags the entire trek and never used them once. Just overpacked!”
🚫 A Note on Quality & Fakes
Yes, some knockoffs are floating around — but many are surprisingly warm and durable. The trick is knowing where to shop and understanding that price ≠ authenticity. Some branded gear at higher-end stores in Thamel is real — or close enough.
💬 “Fake North Face jacket for under €40. Wore it all the way to EBC. Totally fine.”
Final Thoughts
Trekking gear in Nepal is:
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Widely available
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Affordable
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Mostly reliable if you rent or buy wisely
If you’ve forgotten something or need to lighten your pack, don’t stress. Last-minute shopping before the EBC trek is totally doable, whether you’re in Kathmandu, Lukla, or even Namche Bazaar.
Just remember: rent what you won’t reuse, buy what fits and lasts, and pack only what your back can forgive.
