Trekking to Everest Base Camp

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is no walk in the park, but the right kit – and expectations – will help. Guided treks generally supply full porterage, so you need only carry a daypack. Consider your porter, though, before you pack those big bottles of shampoo or heavy jeans. Travel-size toiletries are best, and wipes come in handy in teahouses without showers. Bring a good sunscreen, too; thin, high altitude air makes for fierce sunburn. In terms of clothes, lots of layers will help you cope with the range of temperatures, and a down jacket and thermals are essential, as the Himalaya gets cold above 3,000m at any time of the year. Pack at least five pairs of socks and don’t be tempted to save your box-fresh hiking boots for this adventure. You need boots that have already been lightly broken in – but not battered! – back home. Some basic first aid kit, including blister treatments, antiseptic cream and plasters, is also a good idea. Pop a bandana or scarf in your pack, too, so you can protect your mouth and nose from the dust kicked up by other trekkers and yaks.

The teahouses that line the route offer basic but welcoming accommodation. Rooms are usually on a twin share basis, with twin beds, mattresses and pillows. Some teahouses don’t have electricity, and depend on solar power for lighting. They can be very cold, too, with no hot water or electricity (which means limited opportunity to wash), so bring a head torch and a sleeping bag comfortable to -20°C (or hire one from your tour operator). Some teahouses offer hot showers, but be aware that this is often no more than a bucket of hot water, which provides barely enough water to wash your body. You’ll also be sharing toilets, which may just be a basic hole in the ground. Don’t expect haute cuisine either. Hearty dal bhat (rice and lentil soup/curry, with veggie variations) is often the only thing on the menu, although international dishes may be on offer in Lukla and Namche Bazaar.