35+ Ultimate Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

Last updated: November 21, 2023

The Everest Base Camp trek is an adventure on every level. Stunning natural beauty, rich Sherpa culture, and, of course, the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest. To help you make the very most of this epic adventure, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of tips for the Everest Basecamp trek.

A little about me so you know what I’m looking for in a trek. I’m young at heart, in relatively good physical shape, and have been hiking and trekking for most of my life. While I genuinely appreciate the luxuries in life, I do not need them. I’m about as low maintenance as they come.

Lastly, perhaps most importantly, I live for adventure, and trekking is the ultimate slow-travel adventure.

35+ Ultimate Tips for Everest Basecamp Trek

Life Changing Items to Bring
*Wet wipes
*Toothpaste tablets
*Hand warmers
*Nalgene water bottles
*Merino wool underclothes

Everest Base Camp Tips: Preparing

1. Physical Conditioning for trek

Like any other major challenge, it’s essential to be physically prepared. The trek involves long hours of walking, steep ascents, and descents.

To condition your body, create a training regimen that includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance activities. Focus on building your leg muscles, as they’ll bear the brunt of the trek.

I found the fitness aspect of this trek pretty doable, training by hiking, stair climbing, and weight-lifting on alternate days. I gradually increased the weight in my backpack to 20 pounds while hiking.

As an alternative to hiking, walking uphill on a treadmill with the weight was also an excellent way to train. Rucking is another viable alternative that will set you up in better shape for this trek.

2. Mental Preparation for EBC trek

Mental resilience is as crucial as physical fitness. While the scenery is breathtaking and the time in nature will help you, expect challenging weather, altitude sickness, and long, tiring days. Mental preparation will help you overcome these difficulties and fully appreciate the experience.

Which is more challenging mentally, a long, grueling hike with friends or the boredom of an hour uphill on a treadmill? Perhaps it depends on your friends. Honestly, it might be the latter. Either way, get yourself used to pushing past whatever limits you have. You will be grateful you did.

3. Acclimatization along the trek

Altitude sickness is a significant concern during the EBC trek. To minimize the risk, it’s essential to acclimatize properly.

Spend at least two days acclimating along the way to base camp. It can be in Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), Dingboche (4,410 meters), Lobuche (4,910 meters) or all three. Gradual acclimatization is the key to avoiding altitude-related health issues.

Because we needed more time (more on time later), my group stayed for only two days to acclimate in LoBuche. That is perhaps one reason most of us felt altitude sickness in one way or another in the final few days.

4. Permits and Documentation for hiking

To access the Sagarmatha National Park, which houses the Everest region, you’ll need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit. Additionally, the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card is required for your safety and to help authorities keep track of trekkers in the region.

If you’re hiking alone, ensure you have these permits and carry multiple copies of your passport and permits in case you lose them. If you’re hiking with a guide, they will take care of it for you, and honestly, this is one of many, many reasons to hire a guide.

We were told by our trekking company that we did not need to bring our passport with us on the trek, yet it was requested at several places along the way – the Ramechapp airport, the Park entrance, and the Lukla airport.

5. Packing List Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

Packing is a critical aspect of your preparation. The Himalayan weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack wisely.

Consider lightweight, moisture-wicking, and warm clothing. Essential items include warm layers, a good quality down jacket, waterproof gear, sturdy boots, and trekking poles.

I have fallen in love with wool layers while on this trip. I brought only two changes of clothes, and the wool came through on every level. Warm, wicking, and perhaps best of all, without odor even after a week of hiking and sweating.

Packing for the Everest Base Camp trek requires careful planning to ensure you have all the necessary gear and clothing to stay safe and comfortable in the challenging mountain environment.

Keep in mind that the specific items you’ll need can vary depending on the time of year you plan to trek and your personal preferences. The basics are as follows:

• Layers for warmth and protection from the sun
• Shoes for hiking, relaxing and in the shower
• Backpack, sleeping gear, hiking gear and personal items

Subscribe for a detailed packing list!

Built with ConvertKit

6. Cash for the journey

You will need to bring cash to pay for things at the Namche Bazaar, at the teahouses, and for tipping your guide and porter at the end of the trek. The teahouses charge for extra food, toilet paper, Wi-Fi, electricity, and water. You will want all of these things on your trek.

Ask your guide or tour company for the best amount to bring. You can also have them show you the best place to exchange your money for local currency while in Kathmandu.

Tips for Trekking to Everest Base Camp: Timing

7. Best Seasons for EBC

The EBC trek is best experienced during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, the skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayan peaks are at their finest.

The spring season is usually colder than the fall one, which is why I chose the latter. But the spring season is also the most exciting time to be on the trail because the weather is also better for climbing.

If you want to see the tents, bustle, and crowds accompanying the epic challenge of Everest, spring is the time to go.

8. Avoiding Crowds

If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, consider trekking during the shoulder seasons, like late February, early June, or late November. The trade-off is that the weather might be less predictable.

Of all the adventures and travels to take in the off-season, this is possibly the least rewarding. Your flights, nights, and views are heavily influenced by the weather, and the rainier it is, the less you will have of everything.

My advice is to find a way to look at the crowds as an opportunity to meet like-minded people from all over the world. I have many lovely new friends for this very reason, from Vietnam, the Netherlands, Australia, and India.

Getting to Lukla: The Standard Starting Point

9. Flight to Lukla

Historically, most trekkers begin their journey to Everest Base Camp from Lukla, a small town in the Khumbu region with a domestic airport. Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are the quickest way to start your trek.

However, be prepared for unpredictable weather that can cause delays or flight cancellations. It’s advisable to book your flights in advance to secure a spot.

In addition, the Nepali government changes regulations occasionally, and as of 2023, flights are being re-routed to Ramechapp. The Ramechapp airport isn’t big enough to handle the traffic coming through, however, so expect problems and changes in the regulations even at the last minute.

10. Alternatives

The standard Everest Basecamp Trek Itinerary is Kathmandu to Lukla, to Phadking, to Namche Bazaar for a rest day, to Tengboche, to Dingboche for a rest day, to Lobuche and to Gorak Shep.

Most people trek to Everest Basecamp on the same day as arriving at Gorak Shep and return to stay the night in Gorak Shep.

With the changes in air traffic, the newest standard may become Kathmandu to Ramechapp, to Phadking, and so forth.

For the more adventurous and those with extra time, there’s an alternative to flying into Lukla or Ramechapp. You can start your trek from Jiri, approximately 190 kilometers from Kathmandu.

This route offers a more gradual acclimatization process, fewer crowds, and a chance to experience the local culture and scenery as you walk through various villages. More on alternatives below.

Another beautiful alternative is to stop by Gokyo Lake on your way to the base camp, which requires a more extended trip but is what I would have chosen if I had the time.

11. Plan extra days at the end

The weather in Lukla and Ramechapp is often cloudy and unpredictable. The window for flying into or out of either one is usually in the morning, and the chances decrease toward late afternoon.

Because weather plays a massive role in your ability to fly into or out of the two primary starting points for your hike, it’s best to add a few days at the end of your trip.

That way, if you are delayed getting started for three days by weather, as we were, you won’t have to change your planned itinerary very much.

On the Trail: Top Tips for Everest Base Camp Trekking

Everest Base Camp Distance: 81 miles (130 km)

12. Teahouse Accommodations on EBC Trek

Teahouses are the primary accommodation option along the Everest Base Camp trail. These teahouses offer basic lodging and meals, making them a convenient choice for trekkers.

To ensure you have a place to sleep, especially during peak seasons, it’s advisable to book teahouses in advance. Always carry your own sleeping bag for added comfort and warmth, as the quality of bedding can vary.

Another reason to hire a guide service is that they worry about your lodging for you. In addition, the teahouses are often overwhelmed by numbers, and it falls to your guide and sometimes even your porter to help with the food service.

This is normal and incredibly helpful, especially if you’ve had a difficult day.

13. Toilet situation & Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

In many places in Kathmandu, Ramechapp, and Lukla, you will often have a choice between American toilets and squat toilets. But not always. The choices can become limited and less sanitary as you increase elevation, so please be prepared for either one.

Squat toilets, according to many, myself included, are better for the digestive system than American-style sit-down toilets. When using a squat toilet, a person’s body is positioned in a deep squat, which mimics a more natural posture for elimination.

This posture encourages the colon to straighten, allowing for smoother passage of waste and potentially reducing the risk of constipation or hemorrhoids.

In contrast, sitting on a traditional toilet can create a kink in the colon, making it more challenging to evacuate waste. However, it’s important to note that the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and individual preferences play a significant role in toilet choice.

Especially if you have knee issues.

But since you may only sometimes have a choice, I recommend building up your squatting muscles as part of your training for this trek. Simply squat a few times daily as far as you are comfortable and with the support of something sturdy if needed.

I’ve found that it’s easier to squat when my feet (and subsequently knees) are pointed out a bit instead of straight ahead.

Toilet paper

Toilet paper is not provided along the way. Sometimes a bidet is not available. Bring toilet paper if you plan to use it. You can bring one or two rolls and buy more if needed. It does get more expensive as you get closer to base camp, but it’s also pretty bulky to carry more than a few rolls.

Please put it in the trash, not the toilet, when you are finished using it. Their septic systems cannot handle toilet paper or feminine products.

I started with a portable bidet and switched to toilet paper halfway up. Toilet paper is smaller and more easily portable. In addition, the water in my portable bidet was too cold for me to use when I knew I had to wash my hands with freezing cold water, too.

A note on brands, not in any way sponsored. If you’re bringing toilet paper from home, Charmin or any multi-sheet brand will go much further than the single-sheet brands.

14. Showers

Showers are available, but not necessarily desirable, for most of the way up. There’s generally a line for them and limited amounts of hot water. The space is often small, and the cleanliness varies depending on where you’re staying.

It’s not recommended you take showers after Namche Bazaar because having wet hair when it is so cold will make you a lot colder.

I did not shower at all once we started hiking because I easily get cold in the warmth of my home when my hair is wet. Instead, I brought Wilderness Wipes and would do precisely the same thing next time.

Wipe yourself down in the morning and evening or as often as necessary. Keep your wipes in your inside coat pocket and in your sleeping bag at night once it starts getting cold, so they aren’t freezing cold when you want to use them.

15. Hand washing tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

I washed my hands in the sinks provided, followed by hand sanitizer, until the last few stops. At that point, it was so cold outside, and the water was freezing cold, that I preferred to use my wet wipes and hand sanitizer.

16. Brushing your teeth

I used bottled water to brush my teeth and a toothpaste tablet. I prefer the tablets only because it is one less liquid you have to take out when going through security. For this reason, as well, I purchased my sunscreen in Kathmandu.

They didn’t ask me to remove it when flying from Kathmandu to Ramechapp.

17. Skincare Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

Be sure to bring SPF protective lotion and chapstick, and at least two of the lip balms if you are the kind of person who loses them easily. Speaking for a friend.

Your skin can get very dry on this trek because of the weather and dust-covered trails. You could bring lotion if you like, or use your sunscreen as a lotion to save on space.

18. Hair care tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

I thought long and hard about hair care leading up to my trip. I have long, thin, and fine hair that gets greasy much faster than most people my age. Fine hair tends to do that.

I brought dry shampoo as powder, which was easy to apply (not a liquid). But I used it twice during the week-long trek and am glad to have brought it.

I alternated wearing it up in a ponytail versus a bun or just leaving it down, but I nearly always covered it with a hat. Towards the beginning of the trek, I wore a baseball cap for sun protection.

Toward the top, when it was colder, I put a wool beanie on over my baseball cap. This is a highly stylish solution, stolen from a friend, to both the glare of the sun and the cold temperatures.

19. Personal maintenance

Be sure to bring nail clippers and, if needed, things to manage the hair that will grow out during this time. I brought tweezers and a mirror for my brows. You will not likely find mirrors anywhere in the trail lodges unless you bring them yourself.

20. Water and Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial for your well-being, especially at higher altitudes. To avoid illnesses from contaminated water sources, it’s recommended to drink boiled water. Most teahouses offer this service for a small fee.

If you get cold easily, bring a wide-mouth Nalgene water bottle on this trek. Purchase boiled water at night to put in your Nalgene, and it will stay cozy and warm for nearly 8 hours. You can then drink the water the next day. Nalgene is the only brand that will work for this purpose.

Alternatively, you can carry a water purifier or iodine tablets to treat water from streams along the trail. You can also use them if you are concerned about the quality of the boiled water.

The last option, which is the one I chose, was to purchase water bottles the entire distance. While not environmentally optimal, there are several recycling stations along the trail for disposal.

The price of bottled water increases as you go up in elevation because it has to be carried up there by humans. However, I did see our helicopter being filled with water bottles after it dropped us off in Lukla.

Be sure that your water bottle has a clear plastic cover and that the lid connection has not been broken when you open it for the first time.

21. Local Cuisine

Food situation – don’t eat yak meat, at least not until you are only a day or two away from flying home. The reason for this is that most people do not have stomachs used to that kind of meat, and it can be harsh on your stomach.

If you wait until just before you leave, you will have the luxury of being sick at home.

Having said that, several friends of ours from Vietnam took the opportunity to try yak meat in Namche and had no ill effects. I understand, however, that the Vietnamese have stomachs of steel derived from their regular diet.

Don’t eat meat above Namche. The reason for this is that you have no idea when the food was slaughtered, what its journey was like to get to your plate, or how well the food has been preserved.

There are very few accommodations for preserving meat the further up the trail you go, so it’s best to avoid it if possible.

If you lose your appetite as you go higher in elevation, tell your guide. Try to eat something, even if it’s cookies or candy. Anything will help keep your energy levels up.

Part of the Everest Base Camp experience is trying local food. Options like dal bhat, momos, and Sherpa stew are not only delicious but also provide the energy you need for the trek. They’re fantastic and readily available at teahouses.

The Sherpa porridge is also worth trying, though the pancakes are not. Several people I know tried them at various places along the way, and none of them were satisfied.

I brought some of my own healthy hiking snacks as well, the ones I love the most, and am very happy I did so.

22. Diamox and Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a genuine concern when trekking at high altitudes. To reduce the risk, consult with a medical professional about taking Diamox (acetazolamide).

This medication helps prevent altitude sickness by increasing your body’s ability to acclimatize to higher altitudes. Take Diamox a day or two before reaching higher altitudes and continue until you descend to lower altitudes.

It’s essential to understand that Diamox is not a guarantee against altitude sickness, and if you experience severe symptoms, you must descend immediately.

It’s also important to understand that you will need to drink even more water every day if you are taking Diamox. This helps your body process it with fewer side effects.

Everyone I talked to advised against the idea of bringing the medication and only taking it if absolutely necessary. This is because it doesn’t really work if you wait until you really need it to take it. This is also widespread knowledge on the trail.

23. Porters and Guides

Hiring a porter can significantly reduce the physical load on you, allowing you to enjoy the trek more and focus on the stunning landscapes.

Additionally, guides are knowledgeable about the trail and culture and can provide valuable assistance in emergencies. They can also help with language barriers and cultural interactions.

Both porters and guides will enhance your experience in ways you can’t imagine. You will come away with a better understanding of the people, culture, and mountains you are walking through, and you will contribute to their livelihood.

24. Photography Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest region offers some of the nature’s most stunning landscapes, making it a paradise for photographers. Ensure you have extra camera batteries and memory cards, as the cold can quickly drain your camera’s power.

Keep your phone or your camera close to your body during the day and at night to keep it warm and help the battery to last longer.

I brought a camera, an extra 2.5 pounds, and carried it daily. I didn’t use it once, but I mainly kept carrying it in case something happened to my phone. My phone worked very well the entire time and is all I will bring with me in the future.

Having said that, one group member brought her camera and used it constantly. Our friends in the Vietnamese group brought all of their camera equipment and even hired an extra porter to carry it for them. It all comes down to how inclined you are to use it versus how much it weighs.

Lastly, always respect local culture and ask for permission before taking photos of people.

25. Dressing in Layers

The weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly, so it’s crucial to dress in layers that allow you to adjust your clothing as you hike and as the weather changes throughout the day.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your body, then add an insulating layer for warmth, and finally, finish with a waterproof and windproof shell to protect against the elements.

I brought Icebreaker wool underwear, fleece-lined leggings, Arc’ teryx hiking pants, a wool sweater, wool gloves, down gloves, two down coats, and a good raincoat and Gore-tex rain pants. These were plenty to keep me warm during the day.

Health Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek

26. Recognizing Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening, so it’s essential to recognize the symptoms. Common signs of altitude sickness include dizziness, headache, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.

If you experience any of these symptoms, take them seriously. In the mountains, any symptom can escalate into a severe condition quickly. It’s crucial to monitor your own condition and the condition of your fellow trekkers. This is quite possibly the best reason to hire a guide.

In my group of 7, most of us felt altitude sickness in one of these ways or another. I lost my appetite for the last two days, but this was also because I was severely congested.

Others did as well; others were nauseous or extremely tired, and some had a headache. Our guide assessed each person individually and made recommendations for them.

27. Hydration

Dehydration is a common problem at high altitudes, so it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated. Drink at least 3-4 liters of water every day. Dehydration can make the effects of altitude sickness even worse, so it’s essential to maintain a consistent water intake.

28. Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco can exacerbate the effects of altitude. Avoid them while trekking to minimize the risk of altitude sickness and respiratory problems.

29. First Aid Kit

Carry a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and blister treatment. Ensure you know how to use these items to address minor injuries or discomfort.

In more severe cases, medical facilities are limited in the Everest region, so it’s crucial to have the necessary skills and supplies to manage common trekking-related issues.

30. Insurance

Before your Everest Base Camp trek, it’s essential to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes. This insurance should include coverage for emergency evacuations and medical treatment.

In the unlikely event of a severe health issue, the cost of helicopter evacuation from the remote mountain terrain can be very high. Having insurance ensures that you are financially protected.

One of the trekkers we went up with took an emergency flight from Gorakshep to Kathmandu. Emergency flights require a mandatory one-night stay in the Kathmandu hospital just so you know. She ended up staying for several days with bronchitis.

Many insurance companies do not cover adventures over 14,000 feet in elevation, so ensure yours does. World Nomads was the one I chose, and while I did not have to use them, I was happy with my experience.

Electronics Tips for EBC Trek

31. Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi availability on the Everest Base Camp trek can be limited and sporadic. The trek takes you through remote and rugged terrain with extreme altitudes, and as a result, access to modern communication infrastructure like Wi-Fi is limited.  

Along the trekking route, there are various tea houses, lodges, and small villages that offer basic accommodation and some amenities. Some places may have limited Wi-Fi access, but the quality can vary greatly.

The Wi-Fi signal may be slow and unreliable due to the remote location and inconsistent weather conditions. One of my friends paid for it and demanded a refund because it was so bad.

At higher altitudes, where you’ll be spending most of your trek, Wi-Fi availability is even scarcer. As you ascend, connectivity options become fewer, and the focus is on acclimatizing and staying safe rather than staying online.

32. Charging your electronics

Many teahouses and lodges along the Everest Base Camp trek route provide charging facilities for electronic devices, including smartphones and cameras. However, there are some essential things to keep in mind regarding charging your devices.

– Most teahouses charge a fee for using their electrical outlets to charge your devices. This fee can vary from place to place and may be higher at higher altitudes.

– While charging facilities are common, the number of available outlets may be limited. Therefore, it’s a good idea to bring your own multi-socket power strip or adapter to increase your chances of finding an open socket.

– Charging at high altitudes can be slower due to variations in power supply, so be patient. It may take longer to charge your devices fully.

– Most teahouses may only provide electricity during certain hours of the day. Make sure to ask about their schedule and plan your charging accordingly.

– Charging is usually done in common areas, and you may need to leave your device while it charges. It’s important to keep an eye on your belongings.

– Nepal uses a mix of plug types, including Type C and Type D sockets. You may need a plug adapter to fit your charger into the local outlets.

It’s a good practice to carry a power bank to ensure you have a backup power source for your devices, especially when charging opportunities are limited or unreliable.

Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar

Everest base camp height, (elevation): 17,598 feet (5,364 meters)

33. Everest Base Camp

As you trek towards Everest Base Camp, it’s essential to manage your expectations. The base camp is essentially a cluster of tents (at most) used by climbers during the climbing season.

It’s not a bustling town or a tourist attraction. The actual climbers attempting to scale Mount Everest do so from higher camps further up the mountain.

You cannot actually see Everest from Basecamp, so enjoy the journey and appreciate the Himalayas all around you instead.

34. Kala Patthar

Kala Patthar, standing at an elevation of 5,545 meters, is the ultimate viewpoint to capture the breathtaking panorama of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.

The best time to hike to Kala Patthar is during sunrise when the first light of day bathes the mountains in a surreal glow. It’s a steep but rewarding climb, and the view from the top is a memory you’ll cherish forever.

Respect the Local Culture

Remember you are a guest in this country and these people are some of the kindest, most hospitable people on Earth.

35. Nepali Greetings

While trekking in the Everest region, you’ll come across local people, particularly Sherpas, known for their warm hospitality. Learning a few basic Nepali greetings like “Namaste” (hello) and “Dhanyabad” (thank you) can go a long way in building rapport and showing respect for the local culture.

36. Sherpa Culture

The Sherpa people are the backbone of the trekking industry in the Everest region. Take an active interest in their culture and respect their beliefs and practices. You may visit monasteries, learn about traditional customs, and gain insights into their way of life.

Lessons Learned Trekking to Everest Base Camp Tips

The temperature in the teahouses is the same as outside at night, sometimes below freezing. Bring your wool layers, a good sleeping bag, hand warmers, and a Nalgene bottle to hold boiling water.

Nepali flat is not American flat. Instead, it is ups and downs on a more gentle incline than a steep hill.

Mountainside is the side you want to be on when animal trains come along in either direction. Donkeys, yaks, ponies, or dzo (yak crossed with cow) all have the right of way on the trail. If you are not on the mountain side when they go by, you could be pushed off the trail and down the mountain.

Moving slowly is better than not moving at all. There are many areas where everyone is walking slowly, and it resembles a trail of zombies more than trekkers.

I have even more trekking tips in case this isn’t enough for you to feel comfortable with your preparations.

Is the Everest Base Camp Trek worth it? It was 100% worth it, in my experience, and everyone I trekked with.

FAQs: Tips Everest Base Camp Trek

Wrap-up: Tips for EBC Trek

The trek to Everest Base Camp is a dream for many adventure enthusiasts. While the journey is challenging, the experience and rewards are truly unparalleled.

With the proper preparation, the correct mindset, and adherence to these Everest Base Camp travel tips, you can make your trek safe and memorable.

Remember that the journey itself is as important as reaching the destination, and the friendships and memories you make along the way are just as valuable as standing in the shadow of Everest.

This extended guide should offer aspiring trekkers a more comprehensive understanding of the Everest Base Camp trek, covering essential information and helpful tips for a successful and enjoyable adventure.

I hope this guide will assist you in planning and executing a successful trek to the world’s highest mountain, whether you’re an experienced trekker or a novice adventurer.