So, you’ve chalked out your plan for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro soon. Your bookings are in place, you’re training well, and the day is just around the corner. All that’s left now is to run through your Kilimanjaro packing list and make sure your essentials are in place – but don’t worry, we’ve got your back!
Having completed hundreds of treks to the infamous Uhuru peak, we have a fair idea of some essentials you just cannot skip on your Kilimanjaro packing list. While a detailed and comprehensive packing list is something you’ll receive once you book your trek, here are our top 5 items that you need for your upcoming feat!
Kilimanjaro packing list essentials #1: Day pack (with a rain cover)
We recommend carrying a 25-35 litre daypack to store all your day essentials like your personal first aid kit, water bottles, snacks, headlamp, basic toiletries, etc. while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, and an appropriately sized rain cover to keep it dry. Prior to your departure, fill up your bag completely, wear it, and examine all straps and zips to make sure they’re in good condition and can support the weight of the bag. If you come across anything that needs to be mended, get it done and recheck your bag to ensure you don’t run into any problems while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. Also, it’s a good idea to add some synthetic or polythene bags to your Kilimanjaro packing list – use them to store wet clothes or towels to keep your bag and other items clean.
Kilimanjaro packing list essentials #2: Sturdy trekking pole
A sturdy trekking pole surely makes its way to the top our Kilimanjaro packing list, and for good reason. A trekking pole can make climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro much easier by offering extra support, helping you maintain balance, and distributing your and your bag’s weight evenly. Trekking poles will be available on rent – please reach out to us for more details – but if you plan on purchasing one, ensure that it has a good grip and fits comfortably in your hand. It’s also a good idea to buy a foldable pole so that it’s easier to store.
Kilimanjaro packing list essentials #3: Hiking boots
Your hiking boots can truly make or break your trekking experience. The right boots, with a strong sole and ankle support, offer ease and comfort while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. We strongly recommend choosing boots that are waterproof as you may experience light showers on the trek. To avoid any unpleasant surprises with your new boots, we suggest buying them a few weeks or even months in advance so you can break into them. Remember the practise hikes and exercises. you need to do before climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro? Include your new boots here! Wear them often, take them out on hikes, and exercise in them to understand just how comfortable you are in them and address any pain points well before your departure.
Kilimanjaro packing list essentials #4: Headlamp (and batteries)
A headlamp is one of the handiest items you could carry with you while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. There may come a time when you’re trekking after sundown or before the sunrise, making it difficult to navigate in the dark. Having a handsfree headlamp will help you make your way around or find your way back to your group in case you lose your way. Back at the campsite, a headlamp can help you find the washroom at night or help you see better in case of any emergencies. Prior to your trek, simply ensure that your headlamp fits you and is, in fact, working fine. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
Kilimanjaro packing list essentials #5: Sunglasses
You might come across some sunny days while climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, and your sunglasses will surely come in handy then, but that’s not the only time you’ll be thankful for adding them to your Kilimanjaro packing list. Sheets of snow on the trek can reflect the sunlight and cause almost blinding glares, making it extremely difficult to see ahead of you. Your sunglasses will help prevent this glare, too, making your climb more comfortable and safer. Make sure your sunglasses are sturdy and fit you well. The lenses must be UV resistant, while the frames should preferably be plastic as metal frames may get too cold to wear at lower temperatures.
All set for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro? Do you have more questions? Get in touch with our experts at Kili Treks Tanzania and we will gladly answer any questions and ensure a seamless hike to the Kilimanjaro summit!
255 75 447 3515
info@kilitrekstanzania.com