Trekking in Asia is one of the most popular activities for travelers. As much as it might look like a spontaneous thing to do a good preparation is wise for trekkers. Always research plenty before so you don’t have to pack everything. Also, get familiar with the renting process if you need to buy expensive gears. The right trekking equipment makes your trekking experience in Asia fruitful. Here is a checklist of essential trekking equipment in Asia.

Essential trekking Equipment

* Rucksack: A good large bag with comfortable straps is one of the essential equipment. A waterproof cover is helpful if you are planning to walk in places with unfavorable weather. Similarly, some modifications like water bags and solar fit with battery chargers are helpful if necessary here.

* Daypack- Generally a smaller bag which is for frequent use. You might keep very essential items here like phones and documents. These also come in handy for side trips when you can leave your main back and head out for a stroll with this lighter one.

* Sleeping Bags: It is one of those items most people wouldn’t consider necessary. Especially, if you are trekking in colder places, a sleeping bag can be a lifesaver. Find a durable one and you can use a lot in your further expeditions as well. A silk liner to pair up with your sleeping bag will be better too.

* Water Bottles: A couple of bottles are essential for any kind of trekking/hiking. As an activity that requires a lot of preparation, hydrating frequently is very important. Therefore, water bottles are essential.

* Trekking Pole: It is not a mandatory item if you consider yourself fit enough. However, hiking poles help to relieve the muscles especially in the downhill segments of your trek. You can buy one or a pair of poles depending on the difficulty and duration of the Trek.

* Headlights: These are for early morning or evening hikes. If your trek includes walking in the low-light condition it is best to buy a dependable headlight. Also, carry some extra batteries just in case. 

* Quick-dry towel: Bringing your own towel is always helpful in any travel vacation. it is more necessary for trekkers for regular and easy use.

* Maps and Guidebooks: These are very important if you are trekking in an unknown area without a guide.

Items of Clothing

Headwear

* Sun Hat/Cap: These are best for trekking in the sunny regions. It helps to protect you from direct sunlight and sunburns.

* Scarf or Buff: These are for specific reasons i.e., protecting your neck from sunlight exposure or cold winds. One can also use them as a mask of a kind for dusty trails.

* Sunglasses: Sunglasses are the unsung heroes for trekkers. You can wear them to protect yourself from the sun, dust, as well as in the high altitudes from Snow. A polarize dark shade will come in handy in different segments of your trek. It is very important in the snow-covered region to prevent snow blindness and concentration.

* Woolen Caps or a Beanie: These are again for trekkers in cold weather. They keep you warm and help you to stay healthy throughout the trek.

Body Wear

* Few Pairs of T-shirts – If you are heading for a sunny trek, t-shirts will be good. It will protect you from the sun and wick the moisture as well if needed. For changes in a regular period and feel fresh, a few pairs will be great.

* Innerwear: Bring about half a dozen for treks lasting over a week. Find the most comfortable ones that are ideal for you. Sports innerwear is better as it is designed to absorb sweat easily.

* Thermocoat: These might seem too much for many places. However, something that most trekkers fail to notice is that nights often get colder in Many Asian countries. You can have a comfortable and warm time with these packed. 

* Jackets

– Light Fleece Jackets: These are everyday use jackets. You can take it off or on according to the trekking conditions. Find a comfortable one for you and take it with you.

– Down Jackets: These jackets are only necessary for high elevation treks. You can find a good quality down jacket that will serve you for many years to come. Most guarantee to protect you in subzero temperatures. So, remember to check it before you buy a Down Jacket.

– Rain Jacket: You will need a thin rain jacket to protect you from rain. Raincoats and big covers will help you too in case of extreme rain.

*Trekking Pants: – A good lightweight trekking pant is recommended for trekking. You can find a comfortable fit for you. It is not required to bring more than one for most short treks. To handle the cold you can always double up on the inner trousers.

* Hard Shell trousers: – These come in handy in high elevation trekking. Find windproof and waterproof ones for extra protection during the trek.

* Rain Pants- To protect you from rain. It is only necessary if you are trekking during the monsoon. As being wet is not ideal in any part of the trek, bring one even there is a slight chance of drizzle. 

Hand and Footwear

Gloves: You can use different kinds of gloves for different conditions you’ll trek. A woolen glove will [keep your hands warm in cold. Similarly, thin windproof gloves might be handy in windy trails. One can use simple lightweight gloves for a good grip on their hiking Pole.

Socks: Hiking Socks are easily available and great for blister prevention. it doesn’t necessarily have to be waterproof but that will certainly help too. For cold regions, we suggest you wear woolen socks too.

Flip Flops: Flip Flops are great for a relaxing time after the day’s hike is complete. Give some air and comfort to your feet.

Trekking Boots: Trekking shoes are last but one of the most important items for your body. People often choose hiking shoes for long treks but it might be heavier than your usual trekking shoes. As your pace varies in both these activities we recommend you to use trekking shoes. A word of advice is to use it a couple of times so as to break it easily for the trek rather than using the freshly opened ones for your trek in Asia.

Additional or Optional Equipment

  • * Toiletries: Pack the one that you are used to every day.
  • * Dry and wet Napkins
  • * Earphones, books, cards, kindle, etc. for your leisure.
  • * light Face Masks
  • * Teabags for a quick warm-up drinks
  • * Energy bars
  • * Extra pair of flashlights

Equipment for camping trek

Camping trek is different from others. Depending on the trekking areas you might have to pack the basic equipment as well.

  • * Tent with a rain cover for it if required
  • * Portable cooking set with utensils
  • * Led lights for evening and nights
  • * Fire starter kit and pocket knife if required
  • * Sleeping Bag with a good liner
  • * Inflatable pillow
  • * Portable chargers with cables.
  • * First Aid kit
  • * Maps and Compass/charged GPS

Equipment for Peak Climbing

If you are looking forward to taking your adventure to a next level you might select Peak Climbing. It takes the trekking part of any place and focuses further on climbing. With general mountaineering very much on the table here is some extra equipment to pack for peak climbing in Asia.

  • – Climbing boots
  • – Crampons
  • – Ice Axe
  • – Harness
  • – Carabineers
  • – Ice screws
  • – Snow bars
  • – Tapes/slings
  • – Rock pegs
  • – Helmet (crash hat)
  • – Warm climbing trousers
  • – Waterproof climbing jacket
  • – Gaiters
  • – Lightweight thermal/ insulated ski gloves
  • – Down high altitude sleeping bag
  • – Climbing sunglasses
  • – Lightweight fleece

Medical and First Aid kit equipment

  • – A general first aid box 
  • -Bandages and antiseptics 
  • – Pills that might be required (Altitude Sickness, Diarrheas, Fever, and others)
  • – Insect Repellants
  • – Sunscreen lotion
  • – Water Purification tablets/kit

Always consult your guide or trekking operator for some of these items. They might add a few or help you to pack better for the trek. Start your preparations early for a smooth trek.