Mountaineering Gear Checklist
Mount Everest? Rainier? Before you go, tick off each of these items for your expedition.
by: The Backpacker Editors
Clothing
Outerwear
* waterproof/breathable jacket
* waterproof/breathable pants
* insulated parka
* fleece jacket or wool sweater
* fleece pants (optional)
* waterproof gaiters
* synthetic 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
* synthetic liner gloves
* balaclava
* midweight wool or fleece gloves
* waterproof overmitts (optional)
Footwear
* camp footwear (optional)
* waterproof hiking boots
* camp footwear (optional)
* wool or synthetic socks (3)
* liner socks (2)
Extras
* sun hat
* personal locator beacon (optional)
* bandanna
Gear
Mountaineering Specific Gear
* internal frame pack
* mountaineering boots
* hinged 12-point crampons
* mountaineering axe (70cm)
* climbing harness
* climbing helmet
* belay/rappel device
* prussik slings or mechanical ascenders
* sewn runners
* daisy chains
* avalanche transceiver (optional)
* avalanche probe (optional)
* lightweight avalanche shovel (optional)
* climbing ropes
* protection hardware (nuts, screws, etc.)
* ski goggles (optional)
* glacier glasses
Other Gear
* 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
* personal locator beacon (optional)
* 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