Packing List For Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the top adventure activities in East Africa.

Rising 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above the plains, it is the tallest free-standing mountain on the planet.

While not considered a ‘technical climb’, the challenge is not to be under estimated. Your reward: bragging rights, connection to nature and self, and jaw-dropping scenery.

They say that if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. This is patently true when preparing to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro or Kili, as it’s known on the climbing circuit. Adequate fitness is an obvious requirement. In this article, however, we’re going to look at what you should pack – and why.

Clothing

Your ascent will begin in warm to hot conditions, the as you ascend, and get very cold at times.

The best way to prepare for this is to layer your clothing to adjust to the prevailing weather conditions.

Renting your trekking clothing and gear

If climbing Kilimanjaro is likely to be a once-off endeavour, buying specialist clothing and gear could seem like an excessive expense for roughly a week’s use.

So, it’s a relief to know that, given how popular the climb is, one can easily rent all you will need in Tanzania; including clothing, accessories and other gear.

FlashMc Tours will happily point you to the best rental options. We suggest you ask for a list of what is available well before traveling and secure a booking so that you know it is ready and waiting for you on arrival.

Make sure the brands use dare reputable.

Types of clothing

With weather that can be highly unpredictable, being ready for sudden changes entails knowing how much to take, what and when to wear certain clothing and where to pack it.

Divide clothing into the following layer categories:

• Base – These are worn against the skin, forming the foundation of your daywear. Good wicking qualities keep your skin relatively dry. Alternate use throughout the trek, have atleast two sets of everything.
• Mid – This layer provides warmth and insulation as it gets cooler. Bring two to three sets of mid-layer clothing.
• Outer – Made of waterproof, breathable fabric like Goretex, this layer protects you fromrain and snow.
• Underwear and Socks – You’ll want a clean pair for each day of your trek. Choose material with a high moisture-wicking factor that is breathable. Synthetic or woolen socksreduce the chance of blisters forming. DO NOT WEAR COTTON SOCKS.

Important Note: Wool and synthetic fabrics like polyester, spandex and nylon are best, as they are lightweight, durable, breathable and quick-drying with excellent moisture-wicking properties.

Please do not ignore this advice!

You will need sufficient socks, underwear and items of each of the layers for the entire expedition.

Moisture-wicking socks will keep your feet dry and blister-free.

DO NOT WEAR COTTON. Woolen and synthetic materials dry quickly and insulate better when wet.

On Summit Night, the temperature can drop to -20°C (-4°F), so warm clothing which includes a down jacket, thermal leggings, gloves and a balaclava are vital.

Dressing for Summit Night

In the pitch darkness and often freezing conditions, Summit Night is the biggest challenge of the climb.

Take no chances by adding a down jacket, balaclava (ski mask) and waterproof gloves and/or mittens.

Footwear

As your sole mode of transport (pun intended), taking care of your feet can mean the difference between a challenging versus nightmarishly painful (and possibly expensive) trek.

Your feet are your biggest asset, so do not risk them becoming a liability when choosing footwear. While they can be rented, in this instance, it is a risky choice.

It is better to bring your own worn-in, good-quality, weatherproof and comfortable hiking boots.

Whether your own or rented, they should be medium-weight, waterproof, and breathable (Goretex, or similar), with a sturdy, lugged sole and ankle support for dealing with steep and uneven terrain.

If your boots are new, ensure that they are properly worn in and moulded to your feet by wearing them on hikes and all day around the house.

Additionally, a pair of comfortable, closed, lightweight trekking shoes is useful for easier days on the trail and around the campsite – giving your feet some much-needed relief.

The above tips reduce the chance of blisters and injury to your feet. Sandals or similar are not required.

Your next defence in protecting your feet is to have good-quality socks. We recommend merino wool or synthetic thermal fabrics. Once again – do not use cotton socks. Once they are wet, feet shrivel, get cold and are prone to blisters.

Gaiters, which cover the lower legs, are useful in protecting you against both wetness and injury. These can be rented.

Gear & Accessories

Most people make use of porter services when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. In general, porters here prefer to carry duffel bags (which they balance on their heads).

Pack the bulk of your gear in the duffel bag, while carrying only those items essential for one day of trekking in a hiking day-pack.

Whether rented or your own, make sure it is of good quality.

Duffel bags, whether owned or rented, should be rugged; able to withstand rough handling and impervious to the elements.

Fully packed, it should not exceed 15 kg (33 lbs), per regulations. Pack the contents into several dry bags.

This way, your possessions are protected from getting wet and can be easily categorized.
Your hiking day-pack should be made for hiking, with ample padding, waterproofing, breathability and, most importantly, a waist belt.

Waist belts alleviate stress on the shoulders by distributing weight evenly. Inside, pack your snacks for the day, a rain poncho, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Ensure that your water bottle (or Camelbak insert) is full. Place your camera (or smartphone) in an easy-to-reach compartment.

Naturally, you’ll want your pack to be as light as possible, while not compromising the essentials.

Toiletries and medication

Pack only essential toiletries. There are no ablution facilities on the mountain.

Separate your toiletries and medication into sealable plastic bags to avoid cross-contamination and exposure to moisture.

Altitude Sickness is an ever-present danger

To avoid it, stay well hydrated, walk slowly and rest often. If you do experience symptoms, such as dizziness, nausea or headaches, do not hesitate to inform your guide. Failure to do so could have serious consequences for you and endanger others.

Ready for Kilimanjaro: Gear & Prep Tips

As you can see, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires planning, appropriate clothing and gear, and adequate fitness. Before leaving home, consult your tour operator or guide, asking for their recommendations.

Review this article and adhere to the lists it contains.  It is fair to say that renting equipment and gear represents significant savings, however, many feel more confident using items they have field-tested themselves.

Where possible, ensure that all you will need is either purchased or booked before departure for Tanzania. Having facilitated multiple Kilimanjaro treks, we at FlashMc Tours are only too willing to share our advice and experience – and provide comfort or reassurance where necessary.

Pack light, don’t take shortcuts and only bring the essentials – prioritizing function over fashion always. Equipped with the right equipment, adequate physical preparation and a positive adventurer’s spirit, you will summit Mount Kilimanjaro and live to tell the tale.

Clothing requirements

Undergarments and shirts

1. Underwear – 5-6 pairs
2. Thermal underwear – 2-3 pairs
3. Shirts – 3-4 short sleeve, 2 long sleeved

Trousers

1. Trekking pants
2. Rain pants
3. Insulated trousers or ski pants

Jackets

1. Warm jacket / Down jacket (rated to -15ºC / (5ºF), with a hood)
2. Rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar – must be waterproof)
3. Insulated trousers or ski pants

Headwear

1. Sun hat
2. Beanie
3. Balaclava
4. Neck warmer (or scarf)
5. Polarized, UV-protected sunglasses
6. Headlamp (useful for around camp and essential for Summit Night)
7. Glasses or contact lenses (if applicable)

Hands

1. Waterproof gloves and mittens
2. Trekking poles

Other important accessories

Sun protection

1. Polarized sunglasses with UV protection that properly shield the eyes
2. Sun protection
3. Sun hat
4. Snow goggles

Water bottle (or Camelbak reservoir that fits into your day pack)

1. Ensure your water bottle is of good quality, with a capacity of 2-3 liters.

Toiletries and medication

Toiletries

1. Toothbrush and toothpaste
2. Hand sanitizer
3. Toilet paper
4. Lip balm

Medication

1. Prescription medication (sufficient for the duration of your trek)
2. Painkillers and antihistamines
3. Treatment for gastric complaints (diarrhea, constipation)
4. Consult your doctor or travel clinic for advice on anti-malaria prophylaxis
5. Consult your doctor or travel clinic for advice on medication to prevent or treat altitude sickness, e.g. Diamox and Ibuprofen

First aid kit

• Band-aids (plasters)
• Gauze
• Antiseptic
• Antihistamine ointment
• Tweezers
• Eye drops