What equipment should I buy to climb the Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro equipment can be categorized to:

1. Clothing
- Pair of sports underwear 4-5
- Sports bras (for ladies)
- Lightweight base layer
- 4 short sleeve trekking shirts
- 2 long sleeve trekking shirts
- 1-2 pairs of trekking trousers
- Mid-weight fleece jacket
- Core jacket or third layer
- Warm jacket
- Insulated trousers
- Hard Shell
- Rain gear (Poncho)
N. B: Avoid brining jeans and cotton to Kilimanjaro climb.

2. Headgear
- Hat with neck cover
- Beanie or head ban
- Neck warmer
- Head lamp
- Sun Glasses

3. Hands and walking
- Inner Gloves
- Outer gloves
- Trekking poles

4. Foot Wear
- Hiking boots
- Trekking socks
- Thermal Socks
- Gaiters

5. Bags
- Duffle bag (Greater than 80 liters capacity)
- Day Pack
- Hydration Bladder
- Rain cover

6. Sleeping
- Thermal Mat
- Sleeping Bag
- Inflatable Pillow

Remember if you do not have either of the gear you can always rent

Base layer
This equipment is most important because its function is to transport moisture away from the skin. Cotton is not good for this purpose. Base layer tops work efficiently at this and can be used as t-shirts on warm days and as extra warmth on cold days. Wicking underwear is also recommended although less important. It is advised for every climber to have more than one base layer which could help him in order to change when one is dirty.

Mid layers
The purpose of the mid layer is to provide warmth. These materials are mostly used in cold season to provide warm to climbers body but other materials such as smart wool are also good. One top is normally enough but for longer trips and changing weather environment it is advised having one lighter top and one warmer top.

Trousers and shorts
The choice of trousers is very important and should give you unrestricted movement. Too long or too wide trouser legs may cause a slowly movement for clients. Many modern materials are light and dry quickly. The best-chosen quality trouser and shorts it will make the client feel comfortable when climbing Kilimanjaro because can move properly. A couple of pockets are useful. Shorts are great for warmer days. Some trousers have detachable legs that convert to shorts. That’s why it is good to choose the best equipment before starting your travel.

Wind and waterproof
The best option is to carry a good and soft-shell zip up jacket that is both windproof and highly water resistant, most manufacturing industries make good jackets used for trekking activities. A waterproof and breathable set of waterproofs are also required when trekking on the mountains, these should be one hundred percent waterproof, breathable and pack down small for carriage.

Insulation
Is advised to travel in good seasons because if trekking in the greater ranges, winter or hut to huts, a down or synthetic duvet jacket is highly recommended for fending of the chilly evenings and early mornings. Down jackets are more efficient and pack down well for carrying but are expensive and useless when wet. Synthetic jackets are more useful and cheaper.

Socks
Normally is the responsible of the trekkers to carry also socks which will be used to prevent climbers with cold as well as injury. Technical trekking socks are recommended. Socks with a mix of wool and manmade materials are the best on climbing issues. Although socks are expensive but are widely regarded as the best available. Trekkers should need to have two or more pair of new socks for every one day’s trekking.

Normal and rain Boots
Normal boots could help the climbers when they are in slopes and also rain boots will be used where there is rain to prevent legs with injuries or legs disease like fingers fungus.
Your boots are the most important purchase you will make, and careful consideration and choice should be afforded this major purchase as you will be spending all day wearing them. Trekking shoes and trainers are not suitable, as you will need good ankle support. Make sure you choose the boots which have a perfect fit and wear them before your trip.

Hats
In winter season or the greater ranges, a balaclava should also be carried. Hats are not necessary if carrying good waterproofs which work as the same as hats.

Gloves
Gloves are more important when trekking in the mountains because it can get chilly, even in summer, particularly if staying overnight in mountain huts. Two pairs should be carried. you should carry two or three pairs for example in dry season the gloves are more used to protect climbers’ hands.

Sunglasses
Sunglasses with protection are essential. Models that wrap around the face and prevent sun coming in through the sides are recommended, for winter and alpine conditions a factor of three to four is important. Every climber must carry more than one sung glass because in case one is damaged you can use another one to protect your eyes with sunlight.