LUGGAGE

 

Soft-sided duffel bag (130L+)

Hard frames or wheels are not allowed. There is a 33 lbs weight limit (26 lbs for the Machame route).

Gear included on the Grand Traverse route or with an upgraded tent will be carried by camp porters and will not count towards your duffel bag weight limit.

DAypack (30-45L)

With hip straps and without hard frames to carry your trail essentials.

Guests typically carry 15-20lbs.

You also have the option to hire a personal porter who can carry this pack (up to 33 lbs.).

This bag will serve as your carry-on during international travel.

 

FOOTWEAR

 

Hiking boots

Waterproof, breathable, lightweight, good traction, and with ankle support

We recommend visiting a sporting goods store to try on boots that work best for YOU!

Additional considerations can be found in our blog on buying and breaking in boots.

Gaiters

Mid-calf or knee height, waterproof/breathable gaiters to protect you from moisture and debris.

YakTrax

Provides additional traction if there is snow/ice, which can occur year-round.

Diamond Grip or Spiral traction systems are recommended.

Avoid microspikes and crampons unless you have experience using them since they can damage the tent and other equipment.

Hiking/trekking socks

A mix of medium and heavyweight synthetic and moisture-wicking wool blends (no cotton).

At least 2 heavyweight pairs.

1/day, but if you don’t mind rotating, you can pack fewer pairs.

Camp Shoes

A warm, waterproof, closed-toed slipper with a solid sole for wearing at camp.

Sneakers are acceptable, but you may be too tired to lace up shoes.

 

BASE LAYERS

 

Briefs/underwear

1 pair/day

Light weight synthetic shirts

3/trek, 2 with long sleeves.

Can be layered on top of other base layer tops at colder temperatures.

Heavy weight base layer top

1/trek

Also called ‘expedition weight’

Loose-fitting synthetic hiking pants

2/trek

Consider making 1 pair convertible pants.

Heavy weight base layer bottom

1/trek

Also called ‘expedition weight’

Sports Bras

1/day or fewer if you don’t mind rotating.

Medium weight base layer top

1/trek

Hiking Shorts

1/trek

Used primarily in the rainforest zone and at lodges. Not needed if bringing convertible pants.

Medium weight base layer bottom

1/trek

Lightweight or liner gloves

Can be worn on their own or as liners when wearing heavyweight gloves/mittens.

 

MIDDLE LAYERS

 

Insulated mid-layer jacket/sweater/vest

2/trek with different weights.

Wind-resistant fleece or synthetic down with full front zip.

Down “puffy” jacket

1/trek

Synthetic material with 550+ fill power. Typically worn on summit day and at camp.

Balaclava or insulating neck gaiter

1/trek

Buff® neck protector or similar

Insulated mid-layer fleece pants

1/trek

Wind-resistant fleece. Typically worn on summit day and at camp.

Heavy weight gloves or mittens

1 pair/trek

Insulated and weatherproof with a shell layer.

Heavy weight wool or fleece hat

1/trek