TREK PREPARATION
PACKING LIST
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Rent gear and receive it Tanzania.
A great solution for items you know you’ll only use once.
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Need clarification on items in the list? Refer to the gear images below. All products are available for purchase at Thomson’s online Kilimanjaro store.
LUGGAGE |
| click any image to enlarge |
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 |
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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.
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
1/day, but if you don’t mind rotating, you can pack fewer pairs.
A mix of medium and heavyweight synthetic and moisture-wicking wool blends (no cotton).
At least 2 heavyweight 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.
Gaiters
Mid-calf or knee height, waterproof/breathable gaiters to protect you from moisture and debris.
BASE LAYERS |
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Briefs/underwear
1 pair/day
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
1 pair/trek
Can be worn on their own or as liners when wearing heavyweight gloves/mittens.
Sports Bras
1/day or fewer if you don’t mind rotating.
Loose-fitting synthetic hiking pants
2/trek
Consider making 1 pair convertible pants.
Heavy weight base layer top
1/trek
Also called ‘expedition weight’
Light weight synthetic shirts
3/trek, 2 with long sleeves.
Can be layered on top of other base layer tops at colder temperatures.
Medium weight base layer top
1/trek
Heavy weight base layer bottom
1/trek
Also called ‘expedition weight’
MIDDLE LAYERS |
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Insulated mid-layer jacket/sweater/vest
2/trek with different weights.
Wind-resistant fleece or synthetic down with full front zip.
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 wool or fleece hat
1/trek
Down “puffy” jacket
1/trek
Synthetic material with 550+ fill power. Typically worn on summit day and at camp.
Heavy weight gloves or mittens
1 pair/trek
Insulated and weatherproof with a shell layer.
OUTER LAYERS |
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Hard shell Jacket with Hood
1/trek
Waterproof and windproof fabrics with breathability are necessary.
Gore-tex or eVent material
Hard shell PANTS
1/trek
Waterproof and windproof fabrics with breathability are necessary.
Gore-tex or eVent material
rain poncho
1/trek
Plastic poncho that fits over you and your daypack