What to Pack for Your Kilimanjaro Trek (And Why It’s Totally Worth It)
Date Published
So… you’ve decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? That’s amazing! Get ready for one of the most rewarding, unforgettable adventures of your life. From lush rainforests to glaciers at the summit, Kilimanjaro is a journey through five climate zones in just a few days. But here’s the thing—what you pack can make or break the experience.
Don’t stress though—I've got your back. Here’s everything you need to pack for your Kilimanjaro trek, broken down simply, with some personal tips thrown in to help you feel prepared, excited, and ready to take on the mountain.
🧥 Layer Up: Clothing for All Seasons in One Week
On Kilimanjaro, the weather changes fast - sunny and warm one minute, freezing cold the next. So packing layers is the secret to staying comfortable.
👉 Base Layers (Next to Your Skin)
2–3 moisture-wicking tops (merino wool or synthetic)
2–3 thermal leggings
These keep sweat away and help regulate your body temperature.
👉 Mid Layers (For Warmth)
Fleece jacket or hoodie
Down or synthetic insulated jacket (summit night must-have!)
Softshell or light puffer vest (optional, but cozy!)
👉 Outer Layers (For Wind & Rain)
Waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar—your shield!)
Waterproof pants (easy to slip on over trekking pants)
👉 Other Clothing Essentials
3–4 trekking pants (quick-dry is best)
4–5 moisture-wicking T-shirts
Warm hat/beanie & sun hat
Gloves (liner gloves + warm waterproof outer gloves)
Buff or neck gaiter
Gaiters (great for snow and dust)
Sleepwear (thermal pajamas or warm base layers)
🥾 Trust Your Feet: Footwear Essentials
Your boots are your best friend on Kilimanjaro—don’t go cheap or new here.
Hiking boots: Waterproof, ankle support, already broken in
Camp shoes: Lightweight sneakers or slides (your feet will thank you)
Wool socks: 3–5 pairs (and maybe a pair of liner socks to help prevent blisters)
💡 Tip: Switch socks daily to keep your feet dry and happy.
💤 Sleep Warm, Sleep Well
Nights on the mountain can get really cold—like, below freezing cold.
4-season sleeping bag (rated to -10°C to -15°C or 14°F to 5°F)
Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and keeps your bag clean)
Inflatable pillow or just use clothes in a stuff sack
🎒 Most tour companies provide sleeping pads but double-check in advance.
🎒 Bags & Packing Tips
Duffel bag (60–90L): Carried by porters; waterproof or with a cover
Daypack (25–35L): Your daily essentials live here
Rain cover for your daypack
Dry bags or ziplocks for organizing and keeping things dry
💡 Your main bag has to stay under 15kg (33 lbs), so pack smart!
💧 Health & Hygiene (Yes, You’ll Still Feel Human!)
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel towel
Biodegradable soap/wipes (there are no showers, so… wipes = magic)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with SPF
Toilet paper + tissues (always BYO!)
Hand sanitizer
Pee bottle (seriously handy at night)
Yes, it gets real out there—but being clean-ish makes you feel great.
🩺 First Aid & Meds
Altitude meds (Diamox – talk to your doctor!)
Ibuprofen or paracetamol
Rehydration salts/electrolytes
Antiseptic cream and blister plasters (like Compeed)
Imodium (just in case)
Your usual prescriptions
💊 Take a small, personal first aid kit. Your guides usually carry a full one too.
🏔️ Trekking Gear: Smart and Simple
Trekking poles (help with knees, balance, and summit push)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Sunglasses (with UV protection)
2–3L water capacity (bladder + bottle combo is ideal)
Water purification tablets or filter (optional but smart)
Power bank for charging your phone/camera
Snacks! (Think energy bars, trail mix, dried fruit, chocolate)
Summit night starts around midnight, so gear up like a night-hiking ninja.
🛂 Don’t Forget These
Passport and visa
Travel insurance that covers high altitude
Yellow fever card (depending on where you're traveling from)
Copy of your itinerary
$200–$300 in cash (for tips and souvenirs)
💡 Tips are expected and go directly to the hardworking guides and porters.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Packing for Kilimanjaro can feel overwhelming, but once you’re on that trail—with the mountain rising above you and stars filling the night sky—it all clicks into place. You don’t have to carry everything yourself, and your guides will be absolute legends.
Be kind to your body, respect the altitude, and don’t forget to look around and enjoy the moment. Kilimanjaro isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about the journey, the people, and the stories you'll remember for the rest of your life.
You've got this. 🎒💪🏔️