When trekking in Nepal you will experience a wide range of climates, so take both light and warm clothing in casual and comfortable styles.
A good choice to wear against your skin is light wool as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
You will need a good windproof, waterproof jacket for trekking. It doesn't have to be warm; you can layer up underneath it.
Good sunglasses are a must. A warm hat, gloves and a sunhat are all very useful items too. Early on in the trek it will be sunny and hot, and a hat is also useful for warm sightseeing days in town.
Take something warm to sleep in because the rooms aren't heated and who knows if you'll get hot or even warm water.
Even if you bring smarter clothes for looking good in around the city, you don't have to take them trekking with you. Leave things in Kathmandu and Pokhara – they'll be quite safe.
If you visit in September/October you may be lucky enough to enjoy the religious celebration that is Dashain; it's the country's longest and biggest festival.
Ensure you bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
Shoes to pack for Nepal
Good walking boots with ankle support are a must, as is a comfortable change of shoes. You may need to wear these second shoes on trek if you get blisters, so choose carefully.
Our advice is to make sure you ‘wear in' your walking boots/shoes for a number of weeks before your trip – you'll be so much more comfortable if you do.
A pair of heavy sandals which can fit socks underneath can be a good option too.
We recommend Thorlos hiking socks – they're especially designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable when trekking in hotter climes.
Sandals with the rugged bottom are good for hiking around town and to wear in the showers.
Clothing tips for women
A pashmina or sarong is a versatile must-pack item – useful for covering up in the sun, keeping off a chill or for covering your shoulders for modesty.
Clothing tips for men
There are no specific things to bring to your attention, check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.
For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.
Regions of Nepal
In the mountains warm wool clothes are advised, whilst at lower altitudes cotton clothing is best.
Nepal travel essential
As well as knowing what to wear in Nepal, it is also important to know what vital travel accessories to pack.
You will need your own microfiber travel towel and toiletries. And you'll also need your own little medical kit, sewing repair kit, and a good torch.
Remember the tap water in Nepal is not safe to drink. Try not to brush your teeth with the water and be careful not to swallow when taking a shower. It would be a great idea to bring along a filtration water bottle that filters the tap water, making it safe to drink. We like the LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle.
A bag or soft-sided rucksack is a more practical option than hard cases when traveling around the country, and using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Cashmere blankets, scarves and shawls are popular buys, or how about a Nepalese Singing Bowl?
Combine your bag with a light backpack that will carry your essentials on day trips.
Consider taking a solar powered charger as a back-up for your battery.
This is a place to bring those good books you've been meaning to read. There is a fair bit of sitting around time and you won't be carrying them! Leave them behind as a gift.
