We have received many inquires regarding what to bring for their Tibet trip.  Tibet is a very unique place by culturally and geographically, so we made this Tibet Packing list for your reference.

When packing for Tibet, there are two main ideas to keep in mind. One, pack light. Two, layer your clothes. Tibet sits atop a plateau, and when the sun is shining during the day, it heats up. After sun set, it cools after very fast, especially at altitude. See the table below the packing list for seasonal temperatures.

Clothing

Your clothing should be lightweight, hand-washable, breathable, and quick-drying.

  • Long pants 
  • Short-sleeved shirts
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Undergarments, socks
  • Sport bras for women (roads can be bumpy)
  • Sweater, jacket, windbreaker
  • Warm jacket (esp. if you are traveling to EBC, Namtso, or Kailash)
  • Hat and gloves (optional, for cold/high altitude locations)
  • Rain racket or rain poncho
  • Sun hat
  • Bandana (for dust, washing, etc.)
  • Pajamas
  • Swim suit (for hot springs)

Footwear

While hiking boots are not required for most general Tibet tours, sturdy trekking shoes are essential for trekking itineraries, including the Mt. Kailash kora. For all other non-trekking trips, bring comfortable walking shoes suitable for full days of exploring.

  • Sturdy, comfortable shoes or sneakers
  • Sandals
  • Trekking shoes 
  • Breathable socks and socks for trekking

Electronics

Store electronics in sealed water-proof bags. Keep in mind that at very high altitude, some electronics might fail, so check the specifications of your gear.

  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Camera, lenses, filters, memory cards
  • Video camera, tapes
  • Tripod
  • Batteries
  • Battery chargers
  • Adapters and/or converters

Toiletries

  • Soap, shampoo, conditioner (most hotels provide soap, shampoo, and conditioner; guesthouses usually do not, so bring your own)
  • Shaving supplies
  • Nail clippers
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste
  • Baby wipes (moist towelettes)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Lotion
  • Hairbrush, comb, mirror
  • Small towel
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Lip balm with sunscreen
  • Feminine products
  • Cosmetics
  • Sewing kit

First Aid

You’re advised to bring your own pharmacy kit, as Western medicines are hard to find in Tibet.

  • Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, Aspirin
  • Band-aids
  • Disinfectant, antiseptic cream, antibiotic ointment
  • Gauze bandages and tape
  • Throat lozenges
  • Vitamins
  • Diarrhea medicine
  • Antihistamines
  • Ace bandage
  • Melatonin or other sleep aid
  • Diamox (talk to doctor)
  • Antibiotics (talk to doctor)
  • Prescription drugs (talk to doctor)

Other

  • Sunglasses 
  • Eyeglasses, contacts, solution
  • Notebook, pencil and pen
  • Energy bars, hard candy, snacks, and comfort foods
  • Cash, credit cards 
  • Money belt (waterproof is nice)
  • Ziplock bags (useful)
  • Travel documents & emergency contacts
  • Water thermos 
  • Sleeping bag (for trekking tours; for Mt. Kailash trek a light sleeping bag is sufficient)
  • Sleeping bag liner (a good idea if you will be staying in rural village accommodation)