Trekking to the K2 Base Camp is one of the more difficult hikes you can do. It involves a lot of altitude, taking you 16,400 feet (4,998m) above sea level. And covers approximately 160km. The conditions can be variable. And some strenuous ascents will be involved. But it is also incredibly rewarding. Delivering breath-taking scenery – including incomparable views of the night sky – and an experience like no other. But because it is such a unique proposition, it can be difficult to know what to pack.

Essential Items to Pack for a K2 Base Camp Trek

Hiking boots with ankle supports

Good quality, comfortable, worn-in hiking boots are probably the most important item of kit to take with you on any trek. Because if your feet aren’t up to the challenge, it’s game over. For most of your trip, you’ll be fine in a sturdy pair of trekking boots. They just need to be comfy and to protect your feet from water and uneven ground, with enough support to help you avoid a turned ankle. But later in your hike, alpine boots will be required. Although they feel heavier and hotter, they do provide additional protection and grip.

A good, warm sleeping bag

As with all Choose a Challenge treks that involve an overnight stay, accommodation is provided throughout your trip. But it’s important to remember that you will be required to bring your own sleeping bag. More than half of your nights on this trip will be spent in tented accommodation. And night time temperatures typically range between -10°C and 10°C, depending on the time of year. So, you’ll need a lightweight but warm sleeping bag, suited to the season of your trip.

A trekking backpack

Like your boots, your trekking backpack should be broken in long before you set off towards K2. It should be lightweight but sturdy, with comfortable, adjustable straps. And big enough to comfortably fit everything you will need with you on a day-to-day basis. So, water, camera, sunblock, sunglasses, hat, clothing for layering. But as you will be wearing it for up to eight hours a day, the emphasis really needs to be on comfort.

Water bottles with filter or cleansing tablets

Clean drinking water is integral for any trek. Not only do you need to stay hydrated. But the last thing you want when you’re halfway through a trek is to be hit with a stomach upset.  While there are some natural water sources on K2, they are inevitably polluted. Drinking unfiltered water is never worth the risk.

Good jackets

Down jackets are usually the preference for trips to K2. But while they’re great for the cold mornings and colder nights, you will also need a hard shell or waterproof for the days when the weather turns. Depending on when you travel, the temperatures on K2 can reach up to 30°C. But even if it’s hot, you will not enjoy the chafing of hiking in clothes drenched by a sudden downpour.

Lots of layering

If you’ve ever hiked before, you will know how important layered clothing can be. When the weather is changeable, you need the ability to add or remove layers without swinging between extremes. So, you need base layer bottoms (useful for the nigh time cold), as well as your standard trekking togs. You need vests, tees, sweaters, and fleece. You need lots of socks – don’t be tempted to simply reuse, if you want to avoid blisters. You’ll need gloves and a variety of hats. Not to mention your most comfortable undies.

Gaiters

Gaiters will be an after-thought for a lot of trekkers, because for many hikes they are simply not a necessity. But for K2, gaiters can be a really good idea. You won’t need them for the whole trek, but when you reach the icy or snowy sections of the trail, gaiters will not only keep your feet and calves dry and your boots free from stones, but will help to keep you warm too.

Snacks

Most of your main meals will be provided during your trip. But whether trail mix or mint cake is your thing, having simple snacks in your backpack can be an incredible pick-me-up when your energy is starting to flag.

Your tech

You may wish to travel without a phone and have a tech detox. You’re not going to have a signal for most of the trek anyway. But you’d be mad to travel without a camera. Some people like to invest in a satellite messaging device, so they can always stay in touch with home. And if you’re taking tech of any kind, you’re going to also need a power bank. Not to mention dry bags to keep it all in.

Personal hygiene products

When you’re trekking, there’s a lot of stuff that you’ll want to leave behind. But toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and sunblock shouldn’t be among them. Dry shampoo can be a good idea. Along with wet wipes and hand sanitiser.

We all have our priorities when trekking. But when you’re tackling a challenge as great as the K2 base camp, it can be a bit of an unknown quantity. While it’s important to keep your load to a minimum, there are essentials that you will simply struggle without. And these are the items that we would never leave behind when setting out on a trek to K2.

Find out more about the Choose a Challenge K2 Base Camp trek.