Everest Gear Costs: Buy, Rent, or Borrow to Save Money
Sristi AdhikariPlanning an exciting trip to the Himalayas and wondering how much Everest gear costs? Are you confused about whether to buy or rent gear for hiking and climbing adventures? Renting or borrowing gear is budget-friendly, while purchasing gear is expensive; it’s the best option for regular outdoor enthusiasts or individuals with specific needs and preferences.
The Everest trek successfully depends on your comfort; what you wear matters the most. If you are a beginner, buying a whole set of new trekking gear can be intimidating; renting or borrowing the gear is a better choice. Likewise, if you are a regular trekker, buying a new set will be a better option for you. Instead of renting month to month, you can get a new set and don’t have to worry about damage.
Let’s dive deeper into the blog for details on whether to buy, rent, or borrow the gear for the Everest trek.
How much does Everest Gear Cost?
The Everest trek is moderate, and the safety, comfort, and survival in the extreme high altitude of 5,364 meters depend on the gear. This trek demands proper gear and comfort; without it, the success rate is very low. Proper gear helps you survive in freezing temperatures, strong winds, and unpredictable weather. There is a risk of hypothermia, injuries, or severe discomfort at higher altitudes, and gear ensures mobility and enhanced security.
The Everest gear costs for a new set range from USD $300 to $1,000. Buying a whole gear set is a long-term investment, and it will fit you perfectly. Spending for the Everest gear costs may give you peace of mind, as it can be sold later in case you don’t need it, or you can lend or give them on rent to your friends.
Best Things to Buy
If you are a travel enthusiast and you need trekking gear, here is a total description of the Everest gear costs:
Trekking Boots
The most important things you should buy for Everest are Well-fitting, broken-in, waterproof trekking boots. It costs USD $50 to $150 for good quality.
Base Layers and Mid-Layers
Depending on the brand, Thermal base layers, waterproof pants, and fleece prices range from USD $ 20 to $ 100.
Down Jacket or Synthetic Insulated Jacket
Down jacket varies from $40 to $200.
Trekking Backpack
Make sure to buy a 40+5L backpack. It cost depends on size and brand, from $50 to $20o.
Sleeping Bag (Rated for Cold Temperature)
The sleeping bag rated for cold temperature prices from $3o to $150.
Trekking Socks
Trekking socks are the one thing that you do not consider renting or borrowing. It is quite cheap and you can buy a pair of socks for USD $ to $ 5.
Gaiters
Gaiters help your lower leg and feet retain moisture and protect them from cold and dirt. Its buying amount is $50 to $100.
Hydration Gear
The hydration gear price list ranges from $100 to $120.
Pros Vs Cons of Buying Gear
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Save money for regular trekkers | Higher upfront investment for quality gear |
| Reliable and durable | Space-consuming |
| Hygienic boots or sleeping bags | Requires maintenance and cleanliness |
| Select a broader aspect of brands and styles | Wrong item and size risk |
| Long-term use | Have to carry yourself during the trek |
| High quality and safe | Proper storage is required |
| Always available | Need extra time for packing |
What is Included in Rental Gear?
If you are in Kathmandu and considering renting trekking gear, Thamel is a perfect spot for doing so. Renting helps you save money, and you don’t have to worry about bulky packing of gear from home. The rental items reduce the Everest gear costs as:
Hard Shell / Rain Jacket & Rain Pants
The combination of these rain jackets and pants saves you from heavy rain and wind. Renting them is a good idea, and the rental will charge you USD $57 to $170 for two weeks.
Tent (Camping-Style Trek)
Make sure to save money on the tent. A rental tent for two people will be perfect for you, and you can rent it at USD $30 to $50 for two weeks. Investigate tents, zippers, seams, and cleanliness properly.
Sleeping Pad / Foam Mat (Camping)
Renting a sleeping pad or foam mat helps you save money as well as avoid the bulky packing. Renting them for two weeks will cost USD $5 to $10. Check properly if there is any damage or tears.
Duffel Bag (Porters)
If you are hiring a porter, renting a duffel bag is very important. Sometimes, you wouldn’t get the required size; at that time, be more flexible and choose available ranges. A duffel bag rental varies from USD $14 to $28. Inspect whether it is torn or not, zippers are of good quality or not.
Headlamp
Buying a headlamp is a waste of money. It will be used once or twice during the treks, such as for early morning hikes or power cuts. You can rent them for USD $15 to $20 for two weeks.
High-Altitude Mittens
High altitude mittens can be rented for USD $70 to $140 for 14 days. It saves you from extreme cold weather conditions at higher altitudes. It comes in handy when trekking in the winter seasons.
Camera Gear (Optional)
Camera gear can be rented for multiple weeks for USD $42 to $140. A wide variety of camera gears, like GoPro, chargers, and power banks, are available for renting at Thamel gears shop.
Notes and Tips for Rental Gear in Nepal
Deal for Two-Week Rental
When renting gear, bargain for a package rate rather than a daily charge × 14. Most of the trekking rental gear shops rent their items for multiple weeks with heavy discounts. Do not hesitate to ask for discounts.
Check and Examine Gear
Before packing gear, make sure to examine the gear carefully. Avoid torn items, check the zipper of bags and jackets, and opt for a clean one. Try mittens and rain pants at the shop, and only rent those that fit you perfectly.
Deposit
Most of the rental shops take a passport copy and money as a deposit. The deposit amount depends on the gear value plus the standard of the gear shop.
Choosing a Rental Shop
There are many rental shops in Thamel. A reputable rental shop offers more qualitative and clean gear. Make sure to tell them that you are renting them for trekking, not for an expedition.
Flexibility
You couldn’t get everything of your size in one gear shop. Be flexible in renting a smaller tent, a lighter headlamp, and simpler mittens.
Pros Vs Cons of Renting Gear
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very cheap | Worn gear can sometimes be unreliable |
| Perfect for one-time trekkers | May not fit perfectly (jackets, pants, gloves) |
| Less bulky bags for travel | Hard to find the perfect size and quality in peak season |
| Easy to rent in Kathmandu/Thamel | Unhygienic for sleeping gear |
| Saves luggage weight and extra airline cost | Extra money for deposits |
| Great way to “test” gear before buying | Have to pay the new gear price in case of damage or loss |
| Wide range of jackets, poles, bags, etc. | Higher-end gear is expensive |
| Perfect for last-minute gear | Must check the condition thoroughly before renting |
What Can You Borrow For The Everest Gear?
The Everest trek requires proper gear arrangement and physical fitness. If your friends and family members are trekking enthusiasts and they trek regularly, you can simply borrow from them. This will simply save you money and will provide you with an idea of what to buy in the near future. Borrowing gear from family and friends is more hygienic than renting it from trekking shops. Things you can borrow from your close ones, which decrease your total Everest Gear costs, are:
- Trekking Poles
- Duffel Bag / Kitbag
- Headlamp
- Microspikes / Crampons (if needed)
- Gloves / Mittens (Technical)
- Sunglasses / Glacier Sunglasses
- Water Purification Tools (e.g., filter, tablets)
- First-Aid / Repair Kit Materials
Pros Vs Cons of Borrowing Gear
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free items | Gear like gloves and crampons may not fit |
| Decreases the weight of luggage | Worn or unsafe conditions |
| Eco-friendly | Hygiene concerns and Infection |
| Appropriate for a one-time trekking | Limited availability |
| Testing gear quality and comfort for buying | Responsibility for damage |
| Teamwork and sharing in group treks | Compromise on brand, quality, or style |
| Ideal for items used only a few times | Reliance on others is not always guaranteed |
Wrap It Up
Trekking to Everest demands comfort, safety, and peace of mind. The decision whether to buy, rent, or borrow the trekking gear wholly depends on your budget and your choice. If you like to enjoy travelling in the Himalayas, it will be best for you to buy the gear for yourself.
However, if you are an occasional trekker and are not interested in spending money on trekking gear, then it’s your choice to rent or borrow it. Renting provides access to quality gear at a lower price and is ideal for short-term use.
Buying a whole set of gear costs you thousands of dollars, while renting it will only cost you a few hundred dollars. No wonder borrowing is free, and you don’t have to spend a single penny. But borrowing may limit the availability or choice of brands and sizes. As per convenience, reliability, and cost balance, select the one whichever is best for you. It’s your call.
FAQs
Expand AllHow much do Everest gear costs add up to for a standard trek?
The Everest gear costs between $300 and $1,000 for a standard trek. You can go for renting and borrowing if you are low on budget.
Should trekkers buy or rent a down jacket for Everest?
Trekkers should buy a down jacket if they are regular trekkers, but if trekking is a time thing for you, then you can opt for renting.
Is renting gear in Kathmandu reliable?
Yes, renting gear is reliable in Kathmandu. You can rent a variety of gear of your size in Thamel.
How much does a sleeping bag rental cost?
A rental sleeping bag costs from USD $1.25 to $2.50 per day. Make sure to compare the options from different shops and go for those who offer lower daily rates for longer rentals.
Do rental shops clean the gear properly?
Every rental shop cleans the gear, but only reputable shops follow the cleaning protocols. If you’re a hygiene freak, make sure to wash gear after you
What gear is essential to buy new for hygiene reasons?
Things like intimate apparel, razors, and shaving tools, oral care products, trekking socks, and shower hygiene are the gears that you should buy for a hygienic routine.
Are hiking boots available for rent in Nepal?
Yes, hiking boots are available for rent in Nepal. Renting is a cost-efficient and convenient option, and you can rent them in trekking shops in Thamel.
Does renting gear affect trek performance?
Yes, renting gear affects trek performances. Fit and reliable trekking gear helps in the success rate of the Everest trek.
How many layers are needed for the Everest region?
You will need three-layer clothing for the Everest region. Make sure to add a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof/windproof outer layer for packing.
Is it cheaper to buy gear in Australia or Kathmandu?
Low-tech gear like t-shirts, duffel bags, and down jackets is affordable in Kathmandu, while high-performance gear like waterproof jackets, base layers, and trekking boots is affordable to buy in Australia.
What is the quality of trekking poles sold in Kathmandu?
You can find high-quality, authentic brands of trekking poles to cheap counterfeits that may break easily in Kathmandu. Make sure to high high-quality trekking poles for Everest.
Are crampons required for standard Everest treks?
No, crampons are not required standard Everest trek. If you are planning an Everest trek in winter, packing crampons is highly recommended.
Can warm gloves be rented or should they be purchased?
Everest Gear Costs involve buying warm gloves rather than renting. You can buy them in ski resorts.
How much does it cost to buy a full clothing layer system?
A full clothing layer trekking gear ranges from USD $300 to $ 1000. Premium material Everest Gear Costs more than this range.
Are insulated water bottle covers needed at altitude?
An insulated water bottle is very much needed at altitude because it will prevent water from freezing in higher altitudes. If you are trekking in winter, an insulated water bottle is most included in the Everest Gear Costs.
Should trekkers bring power banks or rent them?
Trekkers should bring their own power banks rather than renting because it is more cost-efficient and reliable. Everest Gear Costs should consist of buying power banks.
Can sunglasses be rented for the trek?
Sunglasses cannot be rented for the trek. Everest gear costs include buying 100 % UV protection sunglasses from optical shops.
What gear can be borrowed from friends without compromising safety?
You can borrow gear items like trekking poles, duffel bag/kitbag, headlamp, microspikes/crampons (if needed), gloves/mittens (Technical), sunglasses/glacier sunglasses, water purification tools (e.g., filter, tablets), and First-Aid/repair kit materials.
How early to shop for gear before flying to Nepal?
You should shop one to three months before flying to Nepal. Make sure to break in your new pair of hiking boots.
What is the biggest gear cost mistake travellers make?
Most of the travellers make the mistake of buying specific, large, and expensive equipment for gear. Also, they make mistakes like overpacking, avoiding multi-purpose clothing items, and buying extra-large items.
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