How to Prepare for Everest Base Camp Trek
If you are planning to trek Everest Base Camp then this post is for you!
Everest Base Camp is a fantastic challenge that can be conquered by all age groups with a decent fitness regime. You might have to walk for about an average of 5–8 hours a day depending upon the trek grades. The up and downs of the trails in the Himalayas require certain strength. If you are physically fit then you can join any of the treks.
What physical criteria will ensure I’m fit enough for this Trek?
A good level of overall fitness, sound health, and stamina is necessary to go on and enjoy the trek. If you have any chronic or acute health condition, we recommend that you consult your physician before signing up for the trip.
Maximize Your Acclimatization
It is a known fact that oxygen levels at higher altitudes are significantly lower than the level that we are used to and the body needs to adjust to this change in atmosphere. The best way to aid acclimation is to climb slowly. We have prepared our itinerary to allow enough time for acclimation and not put too much strain on the body.
Minor symptoms of altitude sickness include severe, persistent headache, coughing, pressure in the chest, shortness of breath even while at rest, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and others. It is vital you constantly monitor your health condition and report any signs of sickness to your team leader.
What should I pack?
It is important that you consider your trekking route and the season you to pack adequately and properly. You would neither want to be underprepared for the freezing high mountains nor burdened with extra clothing and gears you would hardly use. Broadly speaking, a good quality backpack, down jacket (rated up to -10ºC), a warm fleece jacket, moisture-wicking top, trekking pants and shorts, thermal underwear, a pair of comfortable boots, woolen socks with extras, woolen caps, hat, scarves, UV protection goggles, trekking poles, water bottle and a good quality sleeping bag are the essentials.
