Packing for the Roof of Africa? Don’t let your gear decisions be the reason you don’t summit.
From forgotten layers to the wrong kind of boots, even experienced hikers can make mistakes on Kilimanjaro. At Climb Kili, we’ve helped thousands of climbers gear up—and we’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t) on the mountain.
Here are the 8 biggest gear mistakes that could ruin your Kilimanjaro climb—and how to avoid them.
1. Overpacking and Overweight Duffels
Your duffel will be carried by porters—and there’s a weight limit of 15 kg (33 lbs). Bringing too much not only slows down your team but also risks leaving gear behind.
✅ Pro Tip: Stick to essentials and use our Kilimanjaro Packing List as your guide.
2. Bringing Cotton Everything
Cotton holds moisture, gets heavy, and never dries. On Kilimanjaro, that’s a recipe for hypothermia.
✅ Do this instead: Wear moisture-wicking base layers (synthetic or merino wool). Pack fleece and a down jacket for warmth.
3. Inadequate Footwear
Your shoes are your foundation. Thin-soled trail runners or stiff new boots can lead to pain or blisters.
✅ What works: Midweight, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support. Bring quality wool socks—and test your setup on long hikes before your trek.
4. Skipping Rain Gear
Even during dry season, Kilimanjaro’s rainforest zone can soak you. Without proper waterproofs, misery sets in fast.
✅ Essentials: Pack a waterproof jacket AND rain pants. A poncho isn’t enough.
5. Ignoring the Summit Night Cold
Temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F). If your layers aren’t rated for the alpine zone, you’ll struggle to stay warm—and risk turning back.
✅ Summit Night Setup: Thermal base layer, fleece, down jacket, insulated pants, balaclava, warm gloves, and hand warmers.
6. Forgetting Headlamps or Batteries
No light = no summit. You’ll leave for the summit push around midnight.
✅ Gear up: A headlamp with fresh batteries (plus spares) is non-negotiable.
7. Not Using Trekking Poles
Poles help with balance, reduce strain on knees, and are crucial on the descent.
✅ Pro Tip: Adjustable trekking poles with shock absorption are worth it—and available to rent through Climb Kili.
8. Bringing the Wrong Sleeping Bag
Too cold or too bulky, and you’ll either freeze or frustrate your porters.
✅ Gold Standard: A 0°F/-18°C rated down sleeping bag. If you don’t have one, Climb Kili offers high-quality rentals.
🏕️ What Climb Kili Provides:
- Sleeping tents
- Foam sleeping pads
- Private toilet tents
- All meals and filtered water
- Oxygen, pulse oximeter & first aid
- Porter and cook support
No need to pack these—just bring your personal gear.
🎒 Need to Rent Gear?
We’ve got you covered. Climb Kili offers affordable, high-quality rental gear for:
- Sleeping bags
- Trekking poles
- Down jackets
- Waterproof pants and more
Ask about rentals when booking or reviewing your gear list.
💬 What Solo & Group Climbers Say:
“I thought I packed light, but Climb Kili’s list helped me trim it down perfectly. I used every single thing—and nothing extra.”
“Their rental gear saved me from buying hundreds of dollars worth of stuff I’d only use once.”
