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The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List: What You Need

Once you decide to go on an adventure of a lifetime, you need to be completely prepared. Since Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain, climbing means being ready for challenging conditions. So, understanding what needs to be on your Kilimanjaro kit list is a must. 

More importantly, you need to gather this information from experienced people who have already done this challenge. Predicting what to take on your adventure might be helpful, but you will be on the safe side when you know for sure what you need when climbing the mountain.

Therefore, we have prepared the ultimate Kilimanjaro packing list for you. We have included everything from clothing to small details to make your travels easier and more convenient. This will make sure that, once you decide to set off, you will have everything you need!

The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List to Be Guided By

When packing for a trip to Africa, you will probably need a lot of things. If you intend to try Safari Tours In Tanzania, for example, you will need to pack different items, meaning that your packing list will vary depending on the adventure you will experience. 

Now, when it comes to preparing for your Kilimanjaro climb challenge, you should know that you will need more than clothing and a backpack. It is not an activity that lasts an hour or two- it will expose you to different environmental conditions. If you’re not fully prepared, you may face unpleasant situations that will turn your adventure into an unfortunate memory. 

We will start with the most important things and finish with the tiny, convenient items you may take. Rest assured, our list is created meticulously, ensuring you do not forget a thing. 

Clothing Suitable for a Kilimanjaro Adventure

Determining which clothing items to take for a Kilimanjaro hike might be the most tricky part of your packing process. You will have to consider different conditions at different periods of the day. Having everything at your disposal is essential to ensure a safe and pleasant adventure. 

Headware

• Warm beanie hat: Getting to such a great height requires keeping your head warm. A knitted beanie or one made of fleece is, therefore, a perfect choice. 
• Sun hat: The sun in Africa can get really strong, so packing a sun hat is a must. You may opt for one that is brimmed from the sides for extra protection. 
• Sunglasses: You should not forget sunglasses that come with UV protection. They will ensure visibility and protection for your eyes from exposure to the sun for long hours. 

• Headlamp: When climbing Kilimanjaro, you should count on spending night hours on the mountain. You will need a headlamp for better visibility of your surroundings in the dark. 
• Bandana: A bandana will come in handy to cover your neck because the mountain area can get really dusty. You may also opt for a scarf if a bandana is not an option for you. 

Bodywear (Upper body)

• Thermal base layer: A shirt made of merino wool as your base layer will make sure you stay warm when you climb at significant heights. 
• Short-sleeved T-shirts: You will need at least 2 short-sleeved T-shirts, preferably made of moisture-wicking material. This material will make sure you stay dry even during sweating. 
• Long-sleeved shirt: You will also need a long-sleeved shirt with moisture-wicking properties. Packing 2 of them is recommended in case you need to change. 

• Softshell jacket: A fleece or soft shell jacket will keep you warm and comfortable during your Kilimanjaro hike. 
• Insulated jacket: An insulated jacket for Kilimanjaro nights is essential. It will keep you warm during your night stay and protected from the elements. 

Bodywear (Lower body)

• Leggings: You will need thermal leggings as a base layer for your legs. We recommend going for leggings made of merino wool. 

• Trekking trousers: You cannot climb Kilimanjaro without trekking trousers. You can also opt for a convertible pair if that is your preference. 
• Hard shell trousers: You cannot forget to protect your legs from the elements when exposed to greater heights. Waterproof and windproof trousers are ideal for a Kilimanjaro climb. 

Handwear

• Warm heavyweight gloves: Once you reach the top, you will need heavyweight gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm. For better protection, opt for a waterproof pair. 
• Lightweight gloves: For lower heights, you will need lightweight gloves made of fleece or fabric with quick-drying properties. 

Footwear

• Socks: You will need several pairs of socks because you will be walking for long hours until you reach the summit. One pair of thermal socks, 2-3 pairs of liner socks, and 3-4 pairs of outer socks will be enough for your entire adventure. 
• Training shoes: Once you reach the summit, you will need comfortable shoes to walk around the camp. 
• Trekking boots: You will need waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support. 

Adequate Gear for Climbing Kilimanjaro

Besides clothing, your Kilimanjaro kit list needs to include suitable gear. Making it to the top without appropriate equipment is impossible. So, here is a list of things you cannot go without: 

• Trekking backpack: Everything you need for your hike needs to be put in a backpack of up to 15 kg. 30-40L will be enough to store everything you may need along the way. 
• Duffel bag: The main gear you will need for your stay at the summit will be stored in a waterproof duffel bag. You should opt for one of 80-90L. 
• Sleeping bag and sack: You will need a well-insulated sleeping bag to spend the night at the summit. It needs to be one suitable for 4 seasons because you will experience different environmental conditions at the top of Kilimanjaro. While Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours may offer tents, you should provide a sleeping bag. 
• Trekking poles: These will make your hike easier and will reduce the pressure on your joints. 

• Water bottle: You should not begin your adventure without a water bottle in your backpack. Make sure it is a big one to store a greater amount of liquid inside. 
• Binoculars: If you want to observe the surroundings more precisely, a set of binoculars will do the trick. 

First Aid Kit and Medicine for Emergencies 

Since you are about to hike and reach the top of the highest mountain in Africa, you should be prepared even for unfortunate events. It is a long hike, so including a first aid kit in your Kilimanjaro packing list is recommended. Here are some items you may find convenient:  

• Painkillers 
• Antibiotics
• Eye drops 
• Earplugs
• Lipbalm 
• Hand sanitizer 
• Insect repellent
• Sun cream 
• Electrolytes 
• Skin blister repair kit 
• Plasters and bandages 
• Antidiarrheals 

Personal Hygiene Items 

When preparing for Kilimanjaro, you should not forget that you will spend several days in nature. Therefore, including personal hygiene items in your backpack is a must. 

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste 
• Multi-purpose soap
• Dry shampoo
• Deodorants 
• Hairbrush 
• Toilet paper 
• Face and hand cream 
• Quick-drying towel 

Is There a Weight Limit for A Kilimanjaro Climb? 

When you set off to Mount climb Kilimanjaro, you will only need to carry your backpack. The duffel bag you prepare for your overnight stays will be carried by porters. However, you should know that the limit of your bag should not exceed 16 kg or 33 pounds. 

Many travelers believe this is not enough for such a large amount of equipment. But we can assure you that if you take only the necessary and recommended stuff, you will have everything you need in a 16 kg-packed bag. 

Moreover, you should know that you do not need to take all this gear all the way from your home. Several places along the Kilimanjaro climb offer rentals. So, if you don’t have everything at home or can’t take it on your flight, you can consider renting. It might be more convenient for your travels from and to home, so it is good to know that you have the option. 

Tips To Consider When Packing for Kilimanjaro Climb 

Even with an extensive packing list, the beginning of your packing might get you overwhelmed. It can be especially stressful if you have never packed for such an adventure. So, consider some of the tips below when packing to make the whole process easier. 

• Pack light and smart because too much baggage can make your adventure difficult.
• Do not over-pack or under-pack – experienced hikers provide everything you find on the list. 
• When you run out of space in your bags, consider rentals rather than over-packing
• Do not go for the cheapest hiking equipment just to save money. 

Now, you have everything you need to begin your process of getting ready for your climbing adventure. The climb of the highest mountain in Africa will be challenging, but the feeling you will get is unparalleled. Therefore, follow our Kilimanjaro kit list closely, prepare your bags, and prepare for the biggest thrill of your life. You will definitely not regret giving yourself the experience of such an adventure!