Planning to Mount the Himalayas? Pack These Essentials Before You Step

Mount Everest, a subrange of the mighty Himalayas, is considered to be the pinnacle for mountaineers and adventurers. With a fatality rate of over 14%, this jaw-clenching peak easily makes any herculean climber wince at least once. A mere look and the mind is gone. While setting to mount this dreadful beauty, you at least would want to make sure that you pack the essentials.

Here is a list of a few essential items that could mean to be the difference between your smile and sorrow.

1 – Expedition Suit

Nothing could be more crucial in this breathtaking journey than a thick and warm expedition suit. Imagine a powerful suit filled with goose feathers that will allow you warmth and comfort in difficult times. Not only will it keep your body warm, but it will also pack hope for you to use when you reach the higher points. Getting a bespoke suit is something you can gift yourself with. It might cost you around £1,000, but it’ll be worth it.

2 - Disposable hand warmers

These won’t ever be heavy on your pockets or your baggage. Disposable hand warmers are small packets that contain a mix of iron, cellulose, salt, etc., that start releasing heat after getting exposed to air. Some hand warmers may last even up to 24 hours. Pack these and push inside your gloves when needed. These handy warmers will bless you with some precious energy.

3 – Fleece jackets

Once you reach a higher point that whips you with a temperature as low as -36° Celsius, you’ll thank us for this extra pair that we are suggesting for your expedition. A nice warm fleece jacket is excellent to add an extra layer when needed.

4 – A few pairs of socks

Toes are one of the most vulnerable parts that could suffer frost bites. Once you find your socks to be gone wet and cold, bring out the new pair and pamper your feet with it. What more? Push in a few packets of disposable hand warmers under your soles when you sleep. You may easily buy these from websites dealing in clothing, shoes & accessories.

5 – Thermal one-piece

When you go to a colder climate, you always need a thermal suit. This will cover all the vulnerable spots of your body and keep you protected even when a piece of your garment slips up. Always go for a good-quality one-piece.

6 – Mitts and Balaclava

Never expose your face to the dry cold air. It will suck out the water from your body and freeze your blood to a level you’d regret. A balaclava with a woolen hat is something you’ll be wearing almost every time. Apart from it, pack a pair of mitts to help you with some good grip and warmth. Check out any alternative to eBay and see what fit you well. Don’t compromise on the quality.

7 – Ice tools

Let’s come a little out of clothing and look at some of the necessary hiking tools and equipment. You need to buy crampons to help you with added hold onto your boots. These will give you good traction and prevent you from falling. Other necessary tools are an ice axe, harness, goggles, sunscreen, head torch, radio, and a strong but lightweight rucksack.

These are the things that you must revere and keep. Having these will surely ensure safe hiking for you. Apart from it, always keep something that gives you hope to mount and come down safely; it could be a memento, a souvenir from your last hike, a mascot, a picture of your beloved, or anything that gives you hope and a smile. Hail to your journey; hail to your spirit.