Jackets
You’ll need three kinds of coats for this trip:

A fleece jacket used as an insulating layer.
Fleece jackets may be worn alone or over a hiking shirt. They are ideal for use at night when camping. A fleece jacket is essential; you’ll be wearing it for the most of your Kilimanjaro trek. Polartec-200 fabric is preferred above all others for Kilimanjaro trips.
The greatest fleece jacket brands are The North Face, Red Fox, Mountain Hardwear, and Patagonia. Hooded fleece jackets give more warmth and comfort. We suggest packing 2-3 items for your vacation. The top fleece jacket brands for Kilimanjaro trips include The North Face, Red Fox, Mountain Hardwear, and Patagonia.

Warm jacket / Down jacket
A warm jacket is used in camps to keep you warm on cold nights and throughout the summiting portion of your journey. It is an essential component of your equipment.
A thermal jacket should be neither too heavy nor too light, and it should be comfortable to wear at -15°C/5°F.
Make sure that your warm jacket has a hood.
Another key consideration is a down jacket’s waterproof ability.
Rain and snow are common on Mount Kilimanjaro, therefore we suggest wearing warm coats with a water-resistant outer material to protect yourself from mild precipitation.
If heavy rain or snow falls, you’ll need a special rain jacket for added protection.

Membrane Hard shell rain jacket (Gore-Tex or other)
A hard shell rain jacket will most likely be required from the first day of your trip (particularly on the Lemosho 7-day program, where you’ll start at 3,500 m/11,500 f), and should always be packed in your bag for convenient access.
This garment is designed to shield you from wind and drizzling rain before you reach the summit camp. On most Kilimanjaro days, it would be your third layer, after thermal underwear and a fleece jacket.
Pants You’ll need a variety of trousers for this journey.
Trekking pants

Trekking pants of decent quality are generally sufficient for a Kilimanjaro adventure. If you prefer to hike in shorts, a pair of pants is still required for the higher elevation areas of Kilimanjaro and cool nights in the camps

Storm pants
Storm pants are essential for any Kilimanjaro trek, and they are particularly handy during the rainy season. When worn with trekking trousers, they offer great wind and rain protection, improving your entire experience.

Warm trousers or ski pants
Warm trousers or ski pants are another essential item for your packing list. They are required for the top portion of your trip, when the weather is very chilly. These pants should be water resistant, lined with fleece on the inside for warmth, and wrapped in strong hard shell insulation to defend against the elements. Ideally, these pants should be comfortable to wear at temperatures below -15 CO/5°F. If you are not accustomed to chilly weather, you will appreciate wearing thick trousers in Kilimanjaro’s upper camps.
Hiking Underwear and Shirts
You’ll need 5-6 pairs of underpants for your Kilimanjaro trek. In addition, having 2-3 pairs of thermal underwear (base layer) is required for this expedition; the first pair will be used on regular days, and the second on summit night. Furthermore, sleeping with thermal underwear is more pleasant than without it.
The first pair may be composed of lightweight synthetic cloth to dry quickly. The one used for summiting should have warmer, more natural components, such as wool.
Any branded thermal underwear will be ideal for your Kilimanjaro expedition.
Kilimanjaro excursions need 3-4 short-sleeved shirts and 2-2 long-sleeved shirts. Cotton is poor for wicking, so avoid using it. Fabric should be lightweight and breathable. Shirts produced from a combination of polyester and spandex or nylon are ideal.
Bags and backpacks for trekking
High-quality luggage are required for your Kilimanjaro adventure. In summary, you will want two kinds of bags: a daypack that you will carry yourself and a duffel bag that will be handled by a porter.
Daypack

Your daypack will have your daily necessities, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, a rain poncho, a torch, a flask of water, and snacks. It is also the best spot to store your equipment, such as your camera and smartphone.
Your daypack should be lightweight as feasible. Leave the heavier options for other journeys. Furthermore, ensure that your daypack fits properly on your back. We suggest taking it on a little trek before Kilimanjaro to ensure that it is appropriate and comfortable for this expedition.
When selecting a backpack, please pay attention to the following:
- Your Kilimanjaro backpack should have a rain cover. Rain may come soon, thus it will be required to protect the contents.
- It should feature side pockets for trekking poles, a water flask (bottle), and any other things you think are necessary to have easily accessible.
- A decent backpack should also have a hip belt, which helps to relieve weight strain.
- Ideally, a daypack should be compatible with a camel bag or hydration bladder.
The greatest hiking daypacks are made by Black Diamond.
A decent backpack should also have a shoulder hip belt, which helps to relieve weight strain.
Duffle bag

The majority of your Kilimanjaro gear will be kept in a duffel bag, including clothes, hiking boots (unless you’ve elected to wear them from the start), a sleeping bag, and other items. A porter will be carrying it at all times. Porters often carry duffel bags on their heads, hence soft variants are required for their comfort. A porter carrying your duffel on his head will go around 40-50 kilometers (depending on route).
According to Kilimanjaro National Park rules, your fully laden duffle bag should not weigh more than 15 kilograms.
A decent Kilimanjaro duffle pack should satisfy the following criteria:
- Have a minimum capacity of 90-120 liters. Otherwise, you will be unable to fit the whole Kilimanjaro outfit.
- It should be manufactured from waterproof materials.
We suggest carrying your stuff individually in many big dry bags, in addition to a duffel bag. This technique will give additional protection and keep all your goods dry in the event of severe storms (sometimes the water can leak through the zippers straight inside to your duffle bag). You may rent an appropriate, water-resistant duffel bag from Ndoto Compass before to the commencement of your excursion.
Along with a duffel bag, we suggest bringing several big dry bags to put your things in individually. This strategy will give additional protection and keep all of your stuff dry in the event of severe rain.
Dry bag – Optional

Since rain is not often on Kilimanjaro, bringing a dry backpack is a smart idea. Putting it inside your duffel bag or backpack will help you keep all of your Kilimanjaro gear dry and ready to use. If you decide to bring one, make sure it is big enough to accommodate a sleeping bag and all other supplies.
Travel bag organizers – Optional

This device is highly suggested for organizing your things inside a duffel bag. Furthermore, employing such organizers is useful for keeping soiled and damp garments separate from clean ones.
Footwear is an essential item on your Kilimanjaro packing list. This is where you need be most vigilant and selective. Choosing the right hiking footwear and/or shoes is crucial. A poor decision here might result in broken toenails, corns, and blisters.
For this journey, you will require high-quality hiking boots, trekking shoes (optional), and trekking socks.
Water flask

A water flask is really essential. Unlike other low-quality hydration bladders, it does not freeze at night. You must drink at least 3-4 liters of water every day, thus a flask is essential for this trek.
For your Kilimanjaro trek, you should pack 1-2 water flasks (one liter each).
In addition to a water flask, it is advised that you bring a thermos for hot tea or coffee. Though the guides usually carry one thermos apiece for the hikers to enjoy a hot drink on the route, bringing your own implies additional supplies, which are never unnecessary on Kilimanjaro. Greater tea or coffee equals more energy, which you will undoubtedly need.
Camel bag / Hydration bladder – Optional

A water flask is an essential. It will not freeze at night, as some low-quality hydration bladders do. A flask is a must-have for this journey since you must drink at least 3-4 liters of water every day.
For your Kilimanjaro expedition, you should have 1-2 water flasks (one liter each).
A thermos for hot tea or coffee is advised in addition to a water flask. Though the guides usually carry one thermos for each hiker to enjoy a hot drink on the route, bringing your own means having an additional supply, which is never unnecessary on Kilimanjaro. Greater tea or coffee indicates more energy, which you will undoubtedly want.
Hiking boots
available, and it might be difficult to choose the best one.
Ideally, your hiking footwear should satisfy the following criteria:
- Boots must provide enough ankle support.
- To prevent injury, choose a strong model with enough ankle support.
- The boots should be of medium weight.
- Avoid choosing boots that are too hefty; they will reduce your comfort and make your feet fatigued soon.
Of course, your boots should be waterproof so that your feet remain dry all the way to the summit. It is particularly critical near the peak if you climb Kilimanjaro during the wet season. Wearing high-quality trekking socks will give additional protection, thus it is always advisable to include a pair.
Laces should be attached to the speed hooks for enhanced comfort and protection. It is vital to break in your Kilimanjaro boots before beginning your journey. Putting on a new pair of boots can result in pain, sore soles, and calluses. As a result, it is strongly advised that you use your boots for about 5-6 days prior to the commencement of the excursion. You should take at least one lengthy trek to get them prepared.
It is vital to break in your Kilimanjaro boots before beginning your journey. You should take at least two lengthy treks to prepare them.

We propose hiking boots from La Sportiva, Zamberlan, The North Face, Asolo, Salomon, and Scarpa. Any of these brands will suffice for Kilimanjaro. Over 100 pairs of high-quality boots are available in our Kilimanjaro rentals store, all of which are perfect for the Kilimanjaro expedition. Hiring boots from us costs just USD 45 each trip, which is far less than purchasing new (about USD 200-400), not to mention that carrying your own boots adds weight to your baggage. So, if you don’t want to trek vigorously after Kilimanjaro, this is a fantastic alternative.
Sneakers – Optional

On some routes the first days of your hike won’t be very steep, making it possible to use simple trekking sneakers instead of boots. On the following days, after arriving at your camp, you’ll probably want to take off your hiking boots and let your feet rest. That’s when sneakers might come in handy. They’ll be perfect for exploring the camp surroundings and to move between your tent and dining tents.
Zamberlan, La Sportiva, The North Face and Scarpa all make excellent trekking shoes.
Trekking socks

Trekking socks are required on treks like this. Cotton socks should be avoided since they absorb perspiration and cause blisters.
Woolen socks, on the other hand, are an excellent choice for Kilimanjaro since they are both quick and efficient. wicking. Bridgedale is one such brand to consider.
Thermal socks – Optional

Thermal socks are optional but strongly recommended, particularly for hot climbs. There are several brands available on the market. The ones with flat seams and not made of cotton will fit wonderfully! Wool is an excellent option.
Gaiters – Optional

Although gaiters are not required on Kilimanjaro, they are very necessary during the rainy season to keep dirt, snow, and rocks out of the boots.
Hikers often believe that gaiters are of little benefit.
Nonetheless, they assist keep your trekking pants and boots clean throughout the walk, making your outfit more comfortable to wear.
Furthermore, the gaiters assist to protect your more costly membrane and hiking trousers from the sharp rocks that are common on Kilimanjaro.
Headgear
Kilimanjaro headgear, like other categories of hiking equipment, includes both necessary and optional elements.
Sun hat

A sun hat is an absolute must-have for your packing list. Ideally, it should include a neck cover. This hat will keep your face safe from sunburn and overheating.
Beanie

Taking a beanie is necessary for this trip.
At higher elevations, you’ll begin to feel chilly, so a nice beanie will keep your head and ears warm. It should be warm enough to deal with the summit’s cold temperatures and snowy conditions.
Balaclava – Optional

Balaclavas are an excellent choice for hikers who are especially sensitive to chilly weather. On summit night, wear a woolen balaclava to shield your chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead from the wind. It’s doubtful you’ll use it elsewhere.
Neck warmer – Optional

Neck warmers are popular among climbers because they offer adequate protection for the neck and face when it becomes chilly. It is also an effective dust-removal remedy.
Sunglasses

When it comes choosing sunglasses, there are a few important considerations. For starters, eyewear should give enough UV protection. UV radiation is much greater at 6,000 m above sea level than at sea level.
Second, keep in mind while selecting sunglasses because snow on the peak reflects light, placing additional pressure on your eyes. Even if it is foggy, you should put on your sunglasses as you approach the peak. Otherwise, you risk developing a condition called as snow blindness. It is very harmful and may permanently impair your eyesight. Choose a high-quality, mountain model with three or four levels of UV protection.
Summit glasses, as well as other necessary equipment, may always be rented at a low price from our Kilimanjaro rental store.
Julbo Explorer and Oakley make the finest sunglasses for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Headlamp

You can’t hike Mount Kilimanjaro without a headlamp.
First and foremost, you’ll need it to move about the camp after nightfall, when locating your tent might be difficult. Furthermore, if you decide to go to the restroom at night without a light, you may come across the tent ropes.
Second, a headlamp will be required for the top. Hikers often start around midnight with the goal of reaching Uhuru Peak by daylight. As a result, a light will be quite useful for seeing the way.
When selecting a headlamp for your journey, please consider the following points:
- Check the light quality. The brighter your light, the better it is for the journey. Optimally, the light output should exceed 90-100 lumens, and the beam distance should be at least 40-50 meters.
- Buy high-quality batteries. The active mode should last roughly 30 hours. Otherwise, do not forget to bring extra batteries.
- Finally, your headlamp shouldn’t be too hefty. Because it is worn on the head, it should be light. As a result, avoid anything weighing more than 120 g.
- Avoid purchasing rechargeable headlamps. Their battery life is significantly reduced, and there are no power outlets on Kilimanjaro to charge them.
During the peak, you’ll need a headlamp. Hikers often start around midnight with the goal of reaching Uhuru Peak by daylight.
Trekking poles

Trekking poles are a must-have item on your Kilimanjaro packing list, not only for comfort, but also for health reasons.
High-altitude hiking is a hard exercise that puts significant pressure on your knees and joints. The average daily climbing leg on Mount Kilimanjaro is 7-10 kilometers and takes 4-8 hours to finish. The terrain is tough, with some rocky sections. The trekking poles will help you maintain balance by providing two additional supporting points. Hikers also claim that trekking poles are really useful on summit night, particularly when weariness sets in.
That is why some individuals who do not utilize trekking poles report having aching legs during and after their journey.
Good trekking poles can reduce the burden of a long trip on joints by shifting some of your weight to your hands and back, relieving your knees and other joints of additional stress.
When picking on trekking poles for your Kilimanjaro journey, consider the following:
- The ideal weight for hiking poles is roughly 400 g, neither too hefty or too light. Durability is also important; they should be able to withstand extended excursions.
- Aluminum is the best material for long-lasting poles. Check the grip materials, since high-quality poles often include cork or foam grips. Cork is always a superior alternative since it is more pleasant in the palm and does not hurt the skin.
- Remember to use trekking poles that are appropriate for your height. In addition to adjustable variants, there are models specifically designed for tall individuals and children.
Black Diamond is well-known for having the greatest variety of hiking poles.
Good trekking poles are just what you need to reduce the stress of a long trip on your knees and joints.
Gloves
For this excursion, you’ll need two kinds of gloves: lightweight inner gloves and warmer outer gloves for the summit night. Both kinds of gloves are necessary for your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Lightweight gloves help keep hands warm from the second day of your adventure. Most hikers use them until they get at the summit camp, at which point they switch to outer gloves. Inner gloves should be produced from high-quality fabrics, such as wool, polartec, or synthetics. Cotton gloves are not appropriate for Kilimanjaro because to their limited wicking ability.

For the summit night, bring thick gloves or mittens. They should be warm, waterproof, and easy to use. Mittens are preferable since the top generally takes around eight hours to reach and you will be clutching trekking poles the whole way. As a result, it is crucial to maintain them heated around -15°C/ 5°F (lowest temperature in the summit zone).
Sleeping bag for Kilimanjaro

A sleeping bag is required at each camp and on all routes while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, regardless of the season. Though some may believe that the huts on the Marangu path are comfortable, the truth is that they are not heated, therefore it is your job to stay warm at night.
Your sleeping bag should be warm.
To begin with, your sleeping environment has three temperature settings.
“Comfort level” refers to the temperature at which you may sleep comfortably in your sleeping bag wearing just thermal underwear.
“Limit level” refers to the temperature at which you can use your sleeping bag while wearing many layers of additional clothing. Sleeping bags should not be utilized at temperatures over that limit.
“Extreme level” refers to the temperature at which a sleeping bag may be used as an emergency measure to protect a climber from hypothermia until rescue personnel arrive.
Nighttime temperatures in Kilimanjaro’s top camps are quite low. Your sleeping bag’s comfort level should be at least -10 0C / 140F. If you can find a sleeping bag that is warmer, you will not be disappointed! Nobody has ever complained that their sleeping bag was too hot.
Ideally, your sleeping bag should feature a hood to protect your head and allow you to sleep better at night.
Our Kilimanjaro sleeping bag recommendations are Mountain Hardwear’s Lamina Z Blaze (Comfort Level -15°F / -26°C) and The North Face sleeping bags. Because sleeping bags are very big, you may rent one from our Kilimanjaro rentals store upon arrival. We continually update our inventory, ensuring that our hikers have access to the finest sleeping bags.
Sleeping bag liner – Optional

A sleeping bag liner will provide additional warmth on the latter days of your journey. Mummy-shaped liners are superior over rectangular ones. A fleece or an insulated liner would work well for your Kilimanjaro trip.
A decent liner may increase your sleeping bag’s comfort level by 3 to 8°C, allowing you to bring your own sleeping bag if it does not meet the -100°C comfort level criteria.
Inflatable pillow – Optional

If you like reading in a tent, an inflatable cushion will come in handy. At the same time, you may use your backpack or some clothing as an improvised cushion.
Personal & Medical items - Optional

Wet wipes
If you’re climbing Kilimanjaro without a portable shower, wet wipes may help you stay clean. Take two packs: one tiny for your daypack to use on the way, and one bigger for the duffel bag to use for nighttime hygiene.
Don’t forget sunscreen cream.
Without it, the exposed portions of your hands and face would quickly get sunburned.
While the guides will have a medical kit for typical illnesses like nausea, headache, and stomachache, it’s important to pack any personal medications you may need. Remember that some of the medications that are readily accessible in your own country may be unavailable in Tanzania.
Gadgets (Optional)
Some of the tools that will be handy on your Kilimanjaro journey include:
Camera
The panorama from Mt Kilimanjaro is very magnificent! One of the primary reasons people join up for this trip is to take excellent images. To record the most exciting moments of your expedition, bring a smartphone with a power bank or a Go-Pro camera with extra batteries.
Power banks
As previously said, if you are bringing any electronics with you, a power bank is essential. Kilimanjaro has no power outlets, thus this is the only method to charge your smartphone, e-reader, or other electronics.
E-book
It is a must-have item on the packing list for individuals who like reading before falling asleep.
Mp3 Player
This is what will make your Kilimanjaro journey really memorable, particularly on the summit night. Your favorite music will undoubtedly lift your spirits and make your time on the top of Africa even more enjoyable.
Gear and equipment to hire
If Kilimanjaro is not your first time climbing a peak over 5,000 meters, you may already have the majority of the necessary kit. Nonetheless, for many, Kilimanjaro is their first major ascent. As a result, you should seriously consider renting some of the products on the spot rather than spending a lot on equipment.
Purchasing the whole Kilimanjaro pack is likely to cost you more than a thousand dollars, increasing the total expense of your expedition. Hiring everything you need for the trek will cost between $250 and $300. If Kilimanjaro is your once-in-a-lifetime adventure and you are unsure if you will continue climbing, hiring will be a cost-effective choice.
However, if Mt Kilimanjaro is just the first trekking expedition on your bucket list and you want to climb additional mountains, purchasing your own kit is not a terrible idea. Remember to choose an adequate baggage rate when purchasing airline tickets, since the whole package is likely to weigh 15-17 kilograms. Hiring some of the heaviest and most cumbersome goods, such as a sleeping bag, down jacket, or trekking poles, may be an excellent choice, particularly if you want to visit Zanzibar or go on a safari following the journey. Most local airlines operating Zanzibar flights have a baggage restriction of 15 kilograms, which will undoubtedly be insufficient to accommodate all of your hiking and travel gear.