Essential Climbing Equipment Provided

Your mountain guide will supply the crucial climbing gear, including ropes, snow stakes, ice screws, carabiners, a first aid kit, GPS, and a communication system. Rest assured, you're in good hands with the necessary technical gear.

Weight Matters: Pack Smart

Aconcagua has weight restrictions, so efficient packing is key. Here's what you need to bring:

Bags:

• Day Pack: Opt for a 30-40 liter daypack. Popular brands like Osprey, Lowe Alpine, and Berghaus have you covered. Check out our favorite daypacks for inspiration. As an EverTrekker, enjoy a 20% discount on Osprey products.
• Duffel Bag: Carried by your porter, a 100-120 liter duffel bag stores most of your trekking gear. Look into brands like North Face, Mountain Equipment, Osprey, and Rab.
• Dry Bags: Keep valuables safe and separate clean and dirty items.
• Zip Lock Bags: These versatile bags are handy for miscellaneous items and waste disposal.

Sleeping Soundly: Equipment for Rest

Restful sleep is vital for your trekking success. Equip yourself with:

• Sleeping Bag: Opt for a high-quality 4-season down sleeping bag rated for temperatures around -22°C.
• Sleeping Mat: Choose a lightweight option like the Therma-Rest Prolite Plus. Don't forget a repair kit in case of punctures.
• Sleeping Bag Liner: If you're sensitive to the cold, consider a silk or cotton liner for added warmth.

Clothing: Layers for Every Challenge

Aconcagua's varying temperatures demand versatile clothing choices:

• Down Jacket: A high-quality heavy down jacket is essential for warmth in your tent and on summit day. Consider 800-fill minimum jackets like the Mountain Equipment K7 Jacket or Rab Mens Mythic Ultra Jacket.
• Base Layers (6-8): Mix thermal and cooler base layers. Polypropylene, Capilene, and Merino wool options work well.
• Mid Layers (2): Brands like Rab, Craghoppers, Columbia, and North Face offer budget-friendly fleece options.
• Trekking Trousers (2-3): Pack lightweight and insulated winter walking trousers with fleece lining.
• Trekking Shorts (1): For warmer moments.
• Waterproof Jacket: Opt for a light waterproof jacket with good ventilation and helmet space.
• Waterproof Over Trousers: Ensure they fit over your trekking trousers and consider Gore-Tex material.
• Thermal Pants/Long Johns (1-2): For cold nights and summit day.
• Underwear and Socks: Choose Merino Wool for comfort and warmth, bringing a minimum of 6 pairs each.
• Inner Socks (min. of 2 pairs)
• Thick Mountain Socks: Essential for summit day.
• Additional Clothing: Warm layers for sleeping and travel.

Face, Head, and Hands: Protecting Your Essentials

Shield yourself from the elements with the right gear:

• Sun Hat: Protect yourself from the intense sun.
• Warm Hat/Beanie: Keep your head cozy during colder moments.
• Buff/Neck Warmers: Pack lightweight and insulated options for varying temperatures.
• Gloves: Bring both liner and insulated lightweight gloves.
• Mountaineering Gloves: Invest in high-quality gloves designed for extreme cold and high altitudes.
• Handwarmers: Keep your hands warm during chilly nights.
• Mountaineering Sunglasses: Choose Category 4 glasses with 100% UV protection. Julbo is a trusted brand.
• Head Torch: Opt for a battery-powered Petzl head torch with spare batteries.

Footwear: Steady Steps on Challenging Terrain

Choose footwear that supports you every step of the way:

• 3 Season Trekking Boots: Sturdy hiking boots suitable for rough trails.
• Trainers/Shoes: Lightweight options for camp comfort.
• Double Layer Mountaineering Boots: Essential for climbing to high altitudes. Ensure they're crampon-compatible and well broken in.

Mountaineering Equipment: Tools for Summit Success

Equip yourself for the climb with specialized gear:

• Crampons: C3 crampons compatible with your mountaineering boots, like the Grivel G12.
• Helmet: Choose a mountaineering helmet from recommended brands.
• 1 Ice Axe: Traverse-type for added safety.
• Trekking Poles: Telescopic poles help you navigate uneven terrain and reduce joint stress.

Personal Hygiene and Health: Staying Fresh

Maintain hygiene and well-being throughout the journey:

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin with at least factor 50 sunscreen.
• Protective Lip Balm: Keep your lips moisturized and guarded against the elements (factor 30+).
• Wet Wipes/Soap: Essential for hygiene; dispose of waste responsibly.
• Towel: A compact towel for quick clean-ups.
• Water Purifying Tablets: Handy for extra peace of mind.
• Toilet Paper (2): A must for every trekker.
• Personal Washbag: Carry essential personal care items.

• Hydration system such as a camel bag or bottle (Nalgene): 2 liters minimum.
• Insulated bottle or pack: For summit day.
• Thermos 0.75-1 liter: For cold days and campsite. Good quality and not too heavy.
• Water-purifying tablets are recommended: All water supplied is boiled before hand, but these are recommended.
• Energy bars or gels: It's always better to test out and bring bars/gels with you.

Medication: Stay Prepared

Be ready for common health challenges:

• Ibuprofen and Paracetamol: For headaches and pain relief.
• First Aid Kit: Your guide will also carry a fully equipped kit.
• Rehydration Powder (Dioralyte): Stay hydrated and balanced.
• Diarrhea Treatment Kit: Be prepared for digestive issues.
• Diamox: Essential for altitude adaptation.
• Personal Medication: Carry any prescription medications you need.

Documents and Other Essentials: Keep It Together

Don't forget the crucial documents and added comforts:

• Printed Insurance Copy: Extra assurance for emergencies.
• Emergency Contact Information: Plus family contact details.
• Passport and Copy: Keep your identification secure.
• Entertainment: Bring a book or pack of cards for downtime.
• Power Banks: Keep your devices charged.
• Charging Cables: Stay connected and charged.
• Pocket knife: (Leatherman, Victorinox type)

Optional Gear for Hire in Mendoza

• Ice Axe
• Crampons
• Harness and Carabiners
• Helmet