Completing the Annapurna Circuit was one of the most rewarding and challenging adventures of my life. The landscapes, cultures, and sheer scale of the Himalayas left me speechless on more than one occasion. But if there’s one thing I learned the hard way (and also sometimes the smart way), it’s that packing correctly can make or break your experience on this trek.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what I brought, what I wish I had, what I could have done without, and tips to optimize your load for comfort, safety, and success on the Annapurna Circuit. If you’re considering doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek, I highly recommend checking out Magical Nepal for guided trips—they offer exceptional service, knowledgeable local guides, and seamless logistics that can truly enhance your experience on this iconic route.
1. 🧳 Backpack & Packing Strategy
Main Backpack (50–65L)
I used a 55L backpack with a solid internal frame, padded hip belt, and a rain cover. This size was perfect—large enough for everything I needed, but small enough to keep me from overpacking.
Must-have features:
- Rain cover (weather turns quickly in the Himalayas)
- External straps to attach trekking poles or sandals
- Easy-access compartments for snacks, headlamp, and water
Daypack (Optional if You Hire a Porter)
I carried my own gear, so I didn’t need a separate daypack. But if you hire a porter, carry a 15–20L daypack for water, layers, sunscreen, and snacks.
2. 👕 Clothing: Layering is King
The temperatures on the Annapurna Circuit can swing wildly—from humid jungles at lower elevations to freezing nights at Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Layering is essential.
Base Layers
- 2 moisture-wicking t-shirts (I brought one merino wool, one synthetic)
- 1 long-sleeve thermal top
- 1 pair of thermal bottoms (for higher altitudes and sleeping)
Insulating Layers
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 down jacket (essential above 3,500m—mine was packable and super warm)
Outer Layer
- 1 waterproof and windproof shell (jacket with hood)
- 1 pair of rain pants (lightweight but very useful)
Pants
- 2 pairs of trekking pants (one lightweight, one insulated)
- 1 pair of hiking shorts (for warmer days early in the trek)
Underwear & Socks
- 4 pairs of moisture-wicking hiking socks (preferably wool)
- 2–3 pairs of underwear
- 1 sports bra (if applicable)
Sleepwear
- 1 set of clean clothes for sleeping (I kept these dry at all costs)
Accessories
- Warm beanie
- Lightweight hat for sun protection
- Buff or neck gaiter (multipurpose—sun, wind, dust)
- Waterproof gloves (plus inner liners for warmth)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
3. 👣 Footwear
Trekking Boots
Sturdy, well-broken-in waterproof trekking boots are non-negotiable. I cannot stress this enough—your boots will be your best friends or your worst enemies. I used a mid-weight pair with ankle support and Vibram soles. No blisters!
Camp Shoes
A lightweight pair of sandals or Crocs for teahouses was a lifesaver. After a long day of hiking, taking off my boots and sliding into something comfortable was bliss.
4. 🛏️ Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag
While most teahouses provide blankets, I was immensely grateful I brought my own -10°C (14°F) rated down sleeping bag. Nights get cold, especially above 3,500m.
Sleeping Bag Liner
Not strictly necessary, but nice for hygiene and added warmth.
5. 🧼 Toiletries & Hygiene
Everything should be travel-sized and leak-proof.
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Biodegradable soap
- Small quick-dry towel
- Baby wipes (for “showerless” days)
- Hand sanitizer
- Nail clippers
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Toilet paper (buy more as you go—essential!)
- Pee funnel (optional but helpful for some)
- Small mirror (optional, but helpful for contact lenses or shaving)
6. 💊 First Aid & Medications
You’ll be far from pharmacies at high altitude, so bring a personalized first aid kit. Here’s what I packed (and used):
- Diamox (acetazolamide) for altitude (consult your doctor)
- Ibuprofen & paracetamol
- Imodium (anti-diarrheal)
- Oral rehydration salts
- Antibiotics (I carried Azithromycin as a backup)
- Band-aids, blister pads (like Compeed), and athletic tape
- Antiseptic cream
- Tweezers & safety pins
- Electrolyte tablets
- Motion sickness pills (for bus rides)
7. 🧰 Trekking Essentials
Trekking Poles
These saved my knees on the descent from Thorong La. Adjustable poles with good grips are worth every penny.
Water Bottles & Filtration
- 2L total water capacity (I carried a Nalgene + 1L collapsible bottle)
- Water purification: I used Aquatabs and also brought a Sawyer Mini filter. You can’t rely on bottled water past Manang.
Headlamp
Headlamp > flashlight. Hands-free is a must, especially for early starts and power outages.
Map & Guidebook
I carried a paper map and used Maps.me offline. You can find paper maps in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Notebook & Pen
For journaling the experience—highly recommended.
8. 🔌 Electronics & Power
Power gets scarce and expensive in remote villages.
- Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh minimum)
- Charging cable + universal adapter
- Headphones
- Kindle or lightweight book
- Phone (used offline GPS, journaling, camera)
- Extra SD card (if using a camera)
Pro tip: Keep electronics in a dry bag or Ziploc to protect from condensation and rain.
9. 🍫 Snacks & Food
You can buy food at teahouses, but I packed:
- Trail mix
- Energy bars
- Electrolyte drink sachets
- Instant coffee sachets (Nepali coffee is hit or miss)
- A few hard candies (great for altitude and morale)
10. 📄 Documents & Money
- Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
- TIMS Card & ACAP permit (mandatory—get these in Kathmandu or Pokhara)
- 4 passport-sized photos (for permits)
- Insurance card/details (must include high-altitude trekking)
- 20,000–30,000 NPR in cash (ATMs are sparse past Besisahar)
- Credit card (some hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara accept them)
I kept all documents in a waterproof pouch with my cash, just in case.
11. 🏔️ Bonus Items (Optional but Helpful)
- Small multi-tool or knife
- Lightweight packable duffel (to store extra gear in Pokhara)
- Safety whistle
- Duct tape (quick repairs)
- Ziplock bags for organization
- Travel clothesline
- Playing cards (great for downtime in teahouses)
What I Wish I Had Packed (or Left Behind)
Wish I’d Brought:
- More lip balm (mine ran out halfway)
- Extra battery for my headlamp
- A better insulating mug (the tea cools fast at 4,000m)
Could Have Left Behind:
- Too many socks (4 pairs were plenty)
- Extra book (I only read one)
- Heavy-duty lock (teahouses are generally safe and I didn’t use it)
Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Trek Happy
The Annapurna Circuit is a wild and unforgettable ride, and while it’s easy to obsess over gear, the most important thing is to be prepared but flexible. Your body, the altitude, and the weather will all throw curveballs—your pack shouldn’t be one of them.
Trust me: when you’re sipping ginger tea in Manang, catching your breath above the clouds at Thorong La, or soaking your feet in Tatopani’s hot springs, you’ll be glad you packed with purpose.
If you’re unsure about anything or want help refining your own list, drop a comment or reach out—I’m always happy to help fellow trekkers.
