Kilimanjaro Packing List

Kilimanjaro Packing List

The trek up Mount Kilimanjaro is an amazing trip that takes you through changing conditions, from the humid rainforest at the base to the frigid, windy summit. To navigate these fluctuations, you need to pack as efficiently as possible. This Kilimanjaro Packing List will help you on what to carry and what to leave behind.

Because, let's be honest: you can't carry as much luggage as you'd like at 6,000 meters above sea level. Even if you do, it will stay at your hotel in Moshi. What you take with you are the absolute essentials, which are exactly what we've included in this list.

Only the gear necessary for your Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour will make the journey with you. Some items on this list may seem obvious, but others are specific to Kilimanjaro’s unique conditions. Below is a helpful packing guide to ensure you bring the right gear for your climb.

Clothing Essentials for Kilimanjaro

Clothes are one of the most important things on your Kilimanjaro Climb Packing List. As you climb the mountain, the height changes a lot, and so does the weather. Layering is important because the temperatures will change as you go from the rainforest to the alpine desert.

Base Layer

Your base layer is very important for keeping you warm and dry. It should be made to keep moisture away and keep you warm because it is the first layer closest to your skin.

• Thermal Tops & Bottoms (2-3 pairs): Pick thermal pants and tops made of synthetic materials like polyester or natural fibres like merino wool that are high-quality and wick away sweat. This layer will keep you warm and dry when the evenings are cold at high elevations. Don't use cotton because it holds moisture and takes longer to dry.

Mid Layer (Fleece & Insulation)

The middle layer is your insulating layer, which keeps you warm while you walk by trapping heat.

• Fleece Jacket (2 pieces): Fleece is light, lets air flow through it, and retains heat well. A fleece jacket made of Polartec-200 or similar fabrics keeps you warm without being too heavy. If you want extra warmth around your neck and head, look for a hooded option. Fleece coats are great for both camping at night and hiking during the day.
• Insulating Jackets: When the weather drops well below freezing on summit night, you should bring a down jacket or something similar. A good insulating jacket should be light, warm, and able to keep water out. Find jackets that have both down insulation and a waterproof membrane to keep you dry in mild snow and rain.

Outer Layer (Weather Protection)

Your outer layer protects you from rain, snow, and wind. It should keep you safe from the weather while still letting air through to prevent overheating.

• Rain Jacket (1): You need a good rain jacket composed of breathable, waterproof fabric like Gore-Tex. It will protect you from rain, especially at the beginning of your ascent. The jacket should fit well over your fleece or other warm layers without being overly big. A Hard-Shell Rain Jacket is ideal for this.
• Rain Pants (1): It's a good idea to wear rain pants to protect yourself from both rain and wind, especially during the wetter months or if you're climbing in an area where it rains a lot, such as the Rongai Route on Kilimanjaro.

Trekking Shorts and Pants

The correct trousers will make it easy for you to move around and be comfortable while trekking for long periods.

• Trekking Pants (2 pairs): For the lower parts of your Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing journey, lightweight hiking trousers made of breathable, quick-drying materials like nylon are best. These trousers should be tough enough to handle rough terrain but light enough to keep you cool during the day.
• Rain Pants (1 pair): A pair of rain pants is an important addition to your packing list for Kilimanjaro. You can wear these over your trekking trousers to keep you even drier, especially if you're climbing in the wet season.
• Warm Pants (1 pair): Insulated pants or ski pants are a must for the night at the Uhuru Peak. These trousers are made for very cold weather and should be water-resistant, warmed with fleece or synthetic padding, and strong enough to handle snow and chilling winds.

Footwear- Boots & Socks

One of the most crucial things on your Kilimanjaro Gear List is your shoes. For safety, comfort, and avoiding injuries, it's very important to choose the correct boots.

• Hiking Boots (1 pair): Kilimanjaro needs waterproof hiking footwear that support the ankles well. The ground can be rocky and rough or soft and muddy, so your boots need to be able to manage both. Pick boots that are medium weight, have decent grip, and let air flow through them. Before your Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour, wear them a few times to avoid blisters.
• Trekking Socks (4-6 pairs): Buy socks made of wool or synthetic materials that wick away moisture. Don't use cotton because it absorbs moisture and causes blisters. Wool socks are great for keeping you warm and dry. Bring a few pairs because changing your socks often can help keep you from getting blisters and pain.
• Thermal Socks (1 pair): On summit night, thermal socks will keep your feet warm in very cold weather. Choose thick, woollen socks or synthetic materials that keep you warm without adding weight.
• Sneakers (Optional): Most of the time, you'll need boots, but when you're at camp, sneakers or camp shoes are helpful. Some climbers choose to pack lightweight trekking sneakers for the first few days when the terrain isn't too steep or for relaxing at camp. Hence, choose sneakers that are breathable and comfortable for short treks or camp use.

Backpacks & Bags

Choosing the correct backpacks is very important for your Kilimanjaro climb to be comfortable and well-organised.

Daypack

The Kilimanjaro Daypack will hold all the things you need for your daily hike, like snacks, drink, and other small things you require during the day.

• A Comfortable Daypack (20–30 litres): Your daypack should be light and fit snugly against your back. It needs to be big enough to hold your water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, camera, headlamp, and other important things. You need a rain cover for your daypack to keep your gear safe from sudden downpours.
• Compatibility with hydration: Many daypacks can hold hydration bladders, which make it easier to get to water. If you want to use a hydration bladder, make sure your pack has a special place for it.

Duffel Bag

Kilimanjaro Porters will take care of your duffel bag and carry your larger things.

• Large Waterproof Duffle Bag (90–120 litres): Your duffle bag should be made of strong and waterproof materials to keep your gear dry, especially during the rainy season. It should be big enough to hold your clothes, sleeping bag and extra supplies, but not so heavy that it makes the hike harder.
• Dry Bags (Optional): You might want to put your gear in dry bags inside the duffle bag for extra protection, especially your gadgets, sleeping bag, and any other gear that needs to stay dry.

Hydration System

Staying hydrated is very important for your health and performance on the Kilimanjaro Hike. So, you need to carry water with you at all times.

• Water Flask (1-2 litres): To make sure you drink 3–4 litres of water a day, you need carry at least 1–2 water flasks (1 litre each). Flasks are better than hydration bladders since they don't freeze at night and are easier to fill up.
• Thermos (Optional): A thermos is a fantastic thing to have on hand while you're hiking to keep hot liquids like tea or coffee warm. This can help keep you warmer, especially on early morning hikes or at higher elevations where the temperature drops.

Headgear and Accessories

Keeping your head, neck, and face secure and comfortable is vital for the whole climb. The Kilimanjaro Weather can change quickly, especially as you climb higher, so it's important to be ready.

Sun Protection

There is a significant exposure to the sun when trekking at such higher altitudes. Hence, you need the following items on your Kilimanjaro Packing List.

• Sun Hat (1): A wide-brimmed sun hat will keep your face, neck, and ears safe from the strong UV rays that are more common at higher altitudes. A neck cover is an extra benefit that keeps the back of your neck from getting sunburnt. Make sure the hat is light and breathable so you can wear it comfortably all day in the sun.

Protection from the Cold Weather

The temperatures can drop below freezing at higher altitudes, especially on summit night. Hence, you’ll need some extra protection from the cold.

• Beanie (1): For the cooler camps and summit night, you need a warm beanie made of fleece or wool. It keeps your head warm and makes you feel good when it's cold.
• Balaclava (Optional): If you're sensitive to the cold, a balaclava will cover your face and keep it safe from frigid gusts. This is quite helpful on summit night when the temperature drops a much.
• Neck Warmer (Optional): A neck warmer is an excellent method to keep your neck and face safe from the cold. It helps when it's cold at night and when you're hiking at high Kilimanjaro Altitude.

Eye Protection

Kilimanjaro has a lot more UV radiation at high altitudes, and snow or ice can reflect sunlight, which might hurt your eyes.

• Sunglasses (1 pair): Get a good pair of sunglasses that block UV rays (UV levels 3 or 4) to protect your eyes from both direct sunlight and light that bounces off of snow or ice at the top. Polarised lenses are the best way to cut down on glare. Sunglasses are also important to keep from being snow blind, which can happen at the top of the climb.

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are quite important for keeping your knees from getting too tired, especially while you're going down. The rough and uneven ground of Kilimanjaro can be hard on your joints.

• Trekking Poles (2): Adjustable trekking poles help you keep your balance, especially on rocky and hilly parts. They also help your knees by lessening the impact, which is very helpful when you're walking for a long time or on a summit night. An excellent pair of trekking poles should be strong and light, weighing about 400g apiece. For superior comfort and grip, cork grips are better than foam grips.

Sleeping Gear

Your sleeping gear is important since you need to get enough sleep to have sufficient stamina for the next day of hiking. At night, the higher camps on Kilimanjaro may get cold, so it's important to have the correct sleeping gear to obtain a decent night's sleep.

• Sleeping Bag (1): You need a sleeping bag that is comfortable at least -10°C (14°F) for the Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour. You'll sleep in tents that aren't heated, so it's important to stay warm. Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are the best at keeping heat in. A down or synthetic sleeping bag with enough insulation can keep you warm all night.
• Sleeping Bag Liner (Optional): A sleeping bag liner offers an extra layer of warmth. This can make your sleeping bag 3 to 8 degrees warmer, which is great for the night before you reach the top.

Personal Hygiene and Medical Kit

Maintaining personal hygiene is important during your climb, as is ensuring you have any necessary medical supplies on hand.

Hygiene Essentials

It might be hard to keep up with personal hygiene when you can't go to baths or bathrooms. But there are things you may use to stay clean.

• Wet Wipes (1-2 packs): You won't be able to take showers, so wet wipes are a terrific way to stay clean, especially after a long day of hiking. Bring a small pack for everyday usage and a bigger pack to use at camp to freshen up.
• Sunscreen (1): The high altitude of Kilimanjaro makes the UV radiation harsher. To keep your face, neck, and other exposed skin from being sunburnt, you need to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Put it on again and again, especially at higher elevations.
• Toiletries (Minimal): Bring only the most important things, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and other personal hygiene items. Use soaps that break down in the environment to have less of an effect on it.
• Lip Balm / Zinc Cream: Protect your lips and skin from wind and sun exposure, especially at higher altitudes where the sun is intense.
• Hand Sanitiser: Keep your hands clean when soap and water aren't available, helping you avoid germs during the trek.
• Towel: A small, quick-drying sports towel is recommended, as we provide warm water for washing each day.
• Toilet Paper & Matches: Essential for when nature calls on the trail. You can either burn the toilet paper or dispose of it in a small plastic bag at camp.
• Garbage Bag: Useful for wrapping clothes and items inside your kit bag to protect them from rain. It's also great for storing your trail shoes separately.

First Aid and Medical Kit

It's always best to be ready for any medical problems that come up while you're hiking.

• Personal Medications (1 kit): If you take any prescription drugs, make sure to bring enough for the whole trip. Don't count on local pharmacies for important medicines, since they may not always have them in stock.
• Altitude Sickness Medication: Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness is a major problem for climbers, so make sure to bring whatever medicine you need to avoid or treat it. Talk to your doctor about Diamox or other drugs that can help you avoid getting sick at high altitudes.
• Basic First Aid Kit: Your first aid kit should have bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, painkillers, and any other medical supplies you might require.

The table below is a guide to all the medical items you should add to your kit when coming on a climbing Kilimanjaro expedition.

Electronics and Gadgets

You want to disconnect from the world on your Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour, but you should still pack some technology for safety and to take pictures of the amazing sights.

• Camera (1): You'll want to recall the beautiful sights of Kilimanjaro. You need a camera or smartphone with additional storage to record the adventure. A GoPro is perfect for taking pictures of activity at the top.
• Power Bank (1): A power bank will keep your electronics charged. A high-capacity power bank is very important because there are no power outlets on Kilimanjaro. Make sure it's completely charged before you start climbing, and pack spare wires.
• Headlight (1): You need a headlight, especially on summit night when you'll be walking in the dark. Pick a headlight that is light and gives off at least 90–100 lumens. Don't forget to bring extra batteries.
• E-Book Reader (Optional): If you want to read, bring an e-book reader. It's small, light, and fun to do during breaks at camp.
• MP3 Player (Optional): Having an MP3 player with your favourite songs will help you feel better, especially on the night of the summit. Make sure it's light and doesn't take up too much room in your pack.

Optional Comfort Enhancers for the Kilimanjaro Climb

There are a few things on the Kilimanjaro Gear List that aren't necessary but can make your time on the mountain better. You don't need these things, but they can make your climb more fun. A few of these items include:

• Travel Pillow (Optional): A travel pillow can make it a lot easier to sleep in tents, especially for lengthy nights at higher elevations.
• Gaiters (Optional): Gaiters keep snow, dirt and rocks from getting on your boots and trousers, especially when it rains. They are helpful for people who are hiking in the rain or on snow-covered ground.
• Earplugs (Optional): If you have trouble sleeping, earplugs can help you sleep better by blocking out sounds from other climbers and the wind in the tents.

Travel Documents

To travel to Tanzania for your Kilimanjaro climb, you must carry your passport. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months after your arrival and keep it safe during your trip. It’s a good idea to keep a copy or take a photo of it on your phone, just in case.

You will also need a Tanzanian Visa. If you are from the US, UK, Canada, or most European countries, you can get a visa when you arrive at the airport. It costs $100 for US citizens and $50 for most others. You can also apply online before your trip. If you're from another country, check with your local embassy to see what rules apply to you.

Along with your passport and visa, these documents are also helpful to carry:

• A printed copy of your travel insurance with emergency cover
• Your vaccination card, if required for entry
• A printout or saved copy of your flight ticket
• A credit or debit card you can use internationally
• Some cash in US dollars for small payments or tips
• A list of emergency contacts and any allergies or health issues

Wrap Up Your Kilimanjaro Prep Right!

Lastly, on your Kilimanjaro Packing List, don't forget to bring a book and a pen if you like to write in a journal. Writing down your feelings, thoughts, and experiences will help you remember this amazing trip for a long time. If you'd rather, gadgets can also be a great way to record your travels.

Here at Bestday Safaris, we want you to be completely ready for your trip. Our staff is here to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Get in touch with us right away to talk about our Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours. It will be the most exciting journey of your life!