5 essential trekking accessories for The Himalayas

For some a break from their busy and mundane routine means spending the whole time in their bed, for others, it will be going for a trip to the scenic place where they can relax and chill. But there are few for which the break means adventure, the action – like a trek to the Himalayas. For Himalayan trek apart from physical and mental fitness, you need to backpack with proper trekking accessories and gear to make it a success.

So, here we have shortlisted 5 essential trekking accessories to expedite the Himalayas.

1. Table of Contents

   Trekking Clothes

In mountains, the weather is notorious. Temperature changes drastically during the course of the day, especially at high altitudes. Suddenly it gets windy and chilly even after being sunny. So, it is better to be equipped and clothed than to get sick. We recommend having certain layers while hiking the Himalayas.

The base layer is which you wear next to your skin. Choose a lightweight thermal “wicking” apparel means those apparels which can wick the sweat and moisture away from your body. In layman terms, these wicking apparels won’t let your clothes get wet, even though you may be sweating. This clothing also keeps you warm during the cold and cools during hot. Avoid cotton clothing as they cling to skin when wet and doesn’t dry out easily.

Mid Layer is one which keeps you warm. Choose fleece tops, vests, fleece jacket and keep them handy so they can be worn whenever required while trekking. Look for the vents in fleece jackets as they help to regulate body temperature. Also, add trekking trousers with pockets to your trekking accessories lots. These trousers act as wind cheaters and they dry quickly when wet. Avoid wearing jeans while trekking as they become heavy and give side rashes when wet.

Top Layer keeps you dry when it rain, and snow. The outer layer is just like a shell that protects you from all the harsh elements. Wear Gore-Tex, jackets/ membranes that are water resistant, dry easily, and breathable. You can choose from brands like North face , Roxy snow etc. Also, make sure that top layer fits well over base and mid layer.

2. Trekking Shoes & Boots

Shoes are the most important part of your hiking essentials. They either make your trip easy or tough. Long hikes can also result in sore feet and blisters if shoes are uncomfortable. Choose shoes which are waterproof, and dry easily. I personally favour Garmont Nagevi shoes. Preferably one can also look for mid-ankle or high ankle boot as they will support ankle too. Do carry a pair of sandals or flip-flops to wear in the evenings or when you need a break from your shoes.

For Blister prevention

• Make sure your shoes fit properly
• Wear double layer of socks and inner layer should be one which wicks moisture from the feet

3. Trekking Socks

Inner Layer – Invest in good liner socks. Liner socks are thin socks made up of wool, silk or synthetic. Say complete no to cotton socks as they retain moisture rather than wicking and doesn’t dry completely.

Outer layer – Wear thick socks (woollen or synthetic) that provide insulation and cushion. For summer hikes, wear thin hiking socks; thicker when your feet need more cushion and super thick mountaineering socks when its snow mountain hiking.

4. Headband or Cap

Wear headband or cap to protect your face and neck from scorching sun heat. Also, carry a woollen cap to protect yourself from the cold.

5. Gloves

Carry a pair of gloves which can keep you warm in dipped temperatures and which too act as wind cheaters when it’s windy and chilly.

Read ahead my next post for Trekking Gears.