The short answer
Passport, copies, insurance details, a universal adapter, a power bank, layers, a rain jacket, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a torch, basic medicines and a refillable bottle. Pack light, because domestic flights have strict baggage limits.
A good packing list is short and sorted by purpose: documents, money and tech, clothing, health and a small day bag. Leave space for things you buy along the way.
Key facts
- Must
- Passport, insurance
- Power
- Adapter, bank
- Health
- Meds, sanitiser
- Gear
- Layers, rain jacket
How it works
- Make a listWrite down what you need by category and tick items off as you pack.
- Pack for the strictest legBase your bag on the domestic flight or trek limits, not the international ones.
- Use soft bagsPack in soft duffels that fit small vehicles and flights.
- Leave roomKeep space for souvenirs and a spare folding bag for the way home.
- Carry essentials in cabinPut medicines, documents, chargers and a change of clothes in hand luggage.
Documents, money and tech
Carry your passport with a few spare passport photos, copies of your passport and insurance, flight details and your hotel and operator contacts. Keep digital copies in your phone and email. Bring cash and cards and split them between bags.
A universal adapter, a power bank and a charging cable are essential, and a spare camera battery helps on treks, where charging is limited. A small torch or headlamp is useful for power cuts and early starts. See the plugs and charging answer for details.
Clothing, health and the day bag
Bring layers, a rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes and sandals, a hat and sunglasses. Soft duffel bags are easier on small vehicles and flights than hard suitcases. Pack medicines in your hand luggage, along with a small first-aid kit, sanitiser and tissues.
A small day bag holds what you need through the day: water, sun cream, a layer, snacks, a copy of your passport and small notes. Leave extra luggage in your Kathmandu hotel if you go trekking. Domestic flights have tighter limits than international ones, so check them early.
Insider tip
Pack light; domestic flights have strict baggage limits.
Avoid this
Do not forget passport photos for permits.
Related questions
Can I rent trekking gear?
Yes. Kathmandu has shops that rent jackets, sleeping bags and poles. Check the condition and hygiene before you rent.
Do I need a plug adapter?
Yes, bring a universal adapter and check that your chargers accept 230 volts.
How heavy can my bag be?
Domestic flights have tighter limits than international flights, so ask your operator before you pack.
Should I bring a sleeping bag?
For treks, yes, or rent one in Kathmandu. For city tours, not needed.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- UNESCO Sites in NepalFour sites, seven valley monument zones and a sensible order.
- National Parks and ReservesWhich park for tigers, rhinos, birds and snow leopards.
- Famous Places in NepalFamous places, top 10, cities and offbeat picks.
- Seasonal NepalRhododendron, autumn views, snow, monsoon and wildflowers.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
