The Himalayas has long been considered to be a trip of a lifetime, on the bucket list of both avid and new travelers. Spreading across five countries, it’s no wonder that in 2017 alone there were 648 summits to Mount Everest. As there are many climate, altitude and landscape changes to consider when trekking throughout the range, make sure to be prepared well ahead of time to maximise both your safety and enjoyment and make your experience a truly unforgettable one.

Healthy eating and hydration

One of the most important things you can do to ensure a good experience when traveling and being physically active outdoors is eating healthy and staying hydrated. On a trip like the Himalayas, there will be drastic altitude changes, weather fluctuations and lots of activity on a variety of terrain. Making sure to have access to healthy food and snacks for the duration of the trip is crucial to maintaining energy and strength to avoid ‘crashing’. Nuts, trail mixes, granola, dried fruits and vegetables and energy/protein bars are all great options to consume before and during your trip. It is also important to remain hydrated throughout the entire trip–even when the weather is cooler–to avoid altitude sickness. Plan ahead of time and make sure to come prepared with enough food, snacks and water.

Sleeping well and resting

Depending on where you are flying to and from, the trip to your starting base alone may have already interfered with your sleep schedule and left you feeling exhausted. For this reason, it is a good idea to travel to your base a few days before the start of your adventure. That way, you can catch up on much needed sleep to avoid fatigue due to lack of sleep. You want to make sure you feel energized and alert whenever hiking or trekking, and proper sleep can get you in the perfect mindset. It is also crucial to take rest breaks when needed throughout your trip, especially if you are experiencing altitude sickness.

Appropriate clothing and gear

As mentioned above, weather fluctuations and terrain changes should be expected on your trip, and it is best to come prepared for what may lie ahead. Pack light clothing that you can easily layer when the temperatures drop, and make sure to bring a few sets of sturdy shoes for different parts of the trip. Hats, sunglasses, gloves, sunscreen and poles are all important clothing and equipment to bring, so you can be ready for whatever gets thrown your way. Remember, the best defense is a good offense!

If you are one of the many people who have the majestic Himalayas on their bucket list, you are in for a real treat. To make sure the trip goes as smoothly as possible, dedicate more time in the preparation stage to make sure you arrive rested and equipped with healthy food and necessary gear. That way you can focus on the important things, like the view from up top.