Over-packing is the most common first-trek mistake. Here is the list we share with every Northern Hill trekker.

Clothing

  • 2 quick-dry trekking t-shirts and 1 full-sleeve
  • 1 fleece jacket and 1 down/padded jacket
  • 1 waterproof shell jacket and rain pants
  • 2 trekking pants (not jeans)
  • Thermal top and bottom
  • Woollen cap, sun cap, buff, gloves (inner + waterproof)
  • 3–4 pairs of socks, 1 pair woollen

Footwear

  • Trekking shoes with ankle support and good grip
  • Light floaters or sandals for camp

Gear

  • 40–60 L backpack with rain cover, and a small daypack if offloading
  • Two 1 L water bottles
  • Head torch with spare batteries
  • Trekking pole(s)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection), sunscreen SPF 50, lip balm

Personal

  • Personal medicines and a basic kit
  • Toiletries, quick-dry towel, wet wipes
  • Govt. photo ID (required for permits)

Leave behind: jeans, cotton hoodies, heavy boots you have never worn, and too many gadgets.