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High Mountain Gear Checklist

Changing your altitude? From crampons to ice axes, gear up here.

by: The Backpacker Editors

Clothing
Outerwear
  • waterproof/breathable jacket
  • waterproof/breathable pants
  • insulated parka
  • fleece jacket or wool sweater
  • waterproof gaiters
  • synthetic or softshell hiking pants
  • synthetic shorts
Base Layer
  • midweight long john top
  • midweight long john bottoms
  • long sleeve T-shirt
  • synthetic briefs
  • synthetic sports bra
  • synthetic T-shirt
Accessories
  • wool or fleece hat
  • midweight wool or fleece gloves
  • balaclava
  • synthetic liner gloves
  • waterproof overmitts (optional)Footwear
Footwear
  • boots, sneakers, or sandals
  • camp footwear (optional)
  • wool or synthetic socks (3)
  • liner socks (2)
Extras
  • sun hat
  • personal locator beacon (optional)
  • bandanna
Gear
  • Internal or external frame backpack
  • convertible or four-season tent
  • down sleeping bag (-30° to 20°F)
  • inflatable sleeping pad
  • closed-cell foam sleeping pad
  • trekking poles
  • white gas stove and fuel bottles
  • lighter and waterproof matches
  • cookset
  • eating utensils, bowl, and insulated mug
  • headlamp w/extra batteries and bulb
  • 32 oz. water bottles (2)
  • water bottle parkas (2)
  • water treatment (filter, tablets, or drops)
  • pocket knife or multitool
  • compass or GPS (and map)
  • sunglasses
  • first-aid kit with personal medications
  • chemical heat packs
  • stuff sacks
  • assorted zipper-lock bags
  • bear-bagging rope (or canister)
  • insect repellent (optional)
  • mesh head net or suit
  • sunscreen (SPF 15+)
  • lip balm (SPF 15+)
  • toilet paper and trowel
  • pee bottle
Winter Gear
  • ice axe
  • crampons
  • harness
  • snowshoes
  • vapor barrier liner
  • thermos

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Reader Rating: -

READERS COMMENTS

Yes they are a godsend Ive been using them for years!!!
Posted: May 31, 2008 Anonymous

Remember with high altitude hikes, you're gonna drink at least a gallon per day. A 12 oz Gatoraide bottle with its wide mouth is a godsend at 1 am when its 30 degrees outside. Don't misplace the cap!



Posted: Apr 28, 2008 Rick

Yes a pee bottle so you dont have to climb out of you tent on a cold night just to take a leak.
Posted: Apr 12, 2008 Anonymous

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