Gears Provided on Bhutan Trek
Gears Provided on Bhutan Treks & Camp
At Wind Horse Tours, we provide all the essential trekking and camping gear to ensure your journey through the Bhutanese Himalayas is comfortable, safe, and well-supported. Below is a detailed breakdown of what we provide—and what you should bring yourself.
Tents & Sleeping Equipment
- Sleeping Tents: Double-occupancy tents designed for mountain conditions. Single occupancy can be arranged at additional cost.
- Dining Tent: A dedicated dining shelter where meals are served and guests can relax in the evenings.
- Kitchen Tent: A separate tent used by the crew to prepare all meals hygienically.
- Toilet Tent: A private shelter over a simple dug-out pit for basic sanitation in remote areas.
- Sleeping Mats: Basic foam mattress pads are provided. You may bring your own lightweight sleeping pad for additional comfort.
- Sleeping Bags: We recommend that guests bring their own sleeping bags rated for cold, high-altitude conditions. We have a limited number of average-quality sleeping bags available for cleaning fees.
- Inner Sleeping Bag Liners: Provided for additional warmth and hygiene, especially useful when using our rental bags.
- Hot Water Bags: Provided at night in colder regions to keep your sleeping bag warm.
- Trekking Poles: simple walking sticks or poles can be arranged for you on request but we suggest bringing your own size and comfort
Cooking & Dining Equipment
- Cooking Utensils: All cookware and kitchen gear are carried and managed by our trek staff.
- Dining Setup: Folding chairs and tables are provided for mealtime comfort.
- Tableware: Cups, plates, bowls, and cutlery are included for all trekkers.
Luggage & Transport
- Duffel Bags: We provide soft-sided duffel bags for your trekking luggage. You may also use your own.
- Pack Animals: Your gear is carried by horses or yaks, depending on the terrain. Porters are generally not available in Bhutan. You only need to carry a small daypack for your water bottle, camera, jacket, snacks, and personal items needed during the day.
We do not strictly limit your trekking luggage, but we recommend keeping it to 10–15 kg per person for practicality. Any extra luggage can be safely stored at our office or hotel before the trek begins and brought to you at the end of the trek. On very rare occasions—yes, it has happened!—pack animals may wander off unexpectedly, and your gear might temporarily have to be carried by the crew (or you!). So, we suggest packing smart and light to avoid any inconvenience.
What You Should Bring
We provide the basics, but we recommend you bring:
- Sleeping bag (suitable for sub-zero temperatures)
- Daypack (with hydration system or water bottle)
- Layered clothing, rain gear, headlamp, trekking poles, and personal hygiene items
- Water purification tablets or filter (we provide boiled water, but backup is useful)
- Any specific snacks, medications, or comfort items
Details on What You Should Bring on a Trek in Bhutan
Clothing
- Base layers (thermal underwear): Tops and bottoms for layering and warmth
- Fleece jacket or down jacket (or both): Essential for cold mornings and evenings
- Waterproof & windproof shell: Jacket and pants to protect from rain and wind
- Trekking pants: Quick-drying, comfortable walking trousers (few pairs)
- T-shirts or base layers: Preferably moisture-wicking ( few depending on the duration)
- Insulated gloves or mittens and light gloves
- Warm hat and sunhat/cap
- Neck gaiter or scarf
Footwear
- Sturdy, well-broken-in trekking boots
- Camp shoes or sandals (to wear at campsite)
- Wool or synthetic trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
- Gaiters (optional for snow or mud)
Gear & Accessories
- Daypack (20–30L) for daily essentials
- Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C, even in spring/fall)
- Sleeping pad (optional, foam pads provided)
- Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
- Water bottles (2L total) or hydration system
- Water filter or purification tablets (essential for long days)
- Trekking poles (simple ones can be borrowed from us)
- Sunglasses (UV protected)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Personal first aid kit (basic meds, blister care, etc.)
- Toiletries & biodegradable soap
- Small towel
- Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
- Quick-dry camp towel
- Power bank (limited charging availability on trek)
Personal Snacks
- Trail mix, energy bars, nuts, or other preferred snacks
- Electrolyte or hydration tablets (optional)
First Aid & Personal Medication
While our trekking crew carries a basic first-aid kit, it is highly recommended that you bring your own personal medical kit tailored to your needs. This should include any prescribed medication, allergy treatments, and supplies for common trekking issues like blisters, altitude sickness, stomach upset, or muscle pain.
A detailed packing checklist specific to your trek is emailed once your trek is confirmed.