What to pack for a Himalayan trek (and what to leave at home)

New trekkers always over-pack. The list below is what we put in our own bags for any 5–7 day Himalayan trek.

Three layers: a thin merino base, a fleece mid, and a wind/rain shell. Two pairs of trekking pants (one waterproof). One down jacket for camp. Two pairs of merino socks per day; rotate.

Hard skip: jeans, cotton tees, more than one book, a tripod, a brand-new pair of shoes. Break in your boots at home for at least 30 km before you fly.

Add: Diamox (talk to your doctor first), a small headlamp, and lip balm with SPF. The sun at 4,000 m is twice as strong as you think.