Renting vs. Buying Trekking Gear in Nepal: The Complete Thamel Shopping Guide

Introduction

It is your equipment that will either make your trekking experience memorable or forgettable. Cold weather conditions at high altitude, wet terrain, steep descent routes and different weather conditions will all demand quality equipment. Proper trekking equipment is not about owning expensive equipment but about having proper equipment.

A trek in Nepal calls for appropriate equipment. This is the very reason why many of the trekkers arrive in Kathmandu without any equipment, and only arrange trekking equipment in Thamel. There are plenty of outdoor stores in Thamel where you can either rent or buy everything from a sleeping bag to an ice axe. You can simply visit the store a day prior to your trek, try on the jacket and go back home with all the trekking equipment. Most people find it extremely tough to bring all this adventure equipment from different parts of the world.

There are many reasons as to why renting is considered to be a good choice. Both the down jacket and sleeping bag are very expensive and bulky and will be used only once or twice. Therefore, renting seems to be a cost-effective solution to the problem, and you won’t have to return with them to your country. However, in certain cases, purchasing can prove to be the best option.

The guide is based on trekking experiences and shopping trends of the contemporary era in Kathmandu. The guide will allow you to know what to rent or buy, the price of such items, determine low-quality or even fake products and make smart purchases in Thamel.

The guide should serve as a proper trekking gear guide for practical travelers, whether it is your first time or your tenth time hiking in the Himalayas. Regardless of your intentions, there is just one purpose of the guide, which is helping you choose proper hiking gear in Nepal, while our [Complete Everest Trek Packing List] covers the essential clothing, equipment and personal items you need to prepare for the Everest Base Camp trek.

Should You Rent or Buy Trekking Gear in Nepal

It is always better for most first-timers to rent equipment and buy personal supplies. There is no definitive solution, as everything depends on the number of treks undertaken by the individual, the duration of the trip, weather, time, and even financial considerations. Instead of giving an absolute solution, it is always better to explain when one should use each solution.

Best Option for Beginners

When it comes to beginners, it is better to use rental services. In case of a first-time trekking experience, you may still have certain doubts about what you like or dislike regarding your preferences, your tolerance to cold and further trekking plans. Renting a down jacket, a sleeping bag, and trekking poles gives you an opportunity to learn about them without making any investment in the equipment that you will find to be not appropriate. It does not matter whether it is heavy to carry such equipment through the airport. The only exception to the rule is boots, which should be purchased by beginners too.

Best Option for Experienced Trekkers

As for experienced trekkers, it is preferable to buy the equipment, especially the items that you need to have at hand all the time. In case you do several treks per year, you can easily recoup the cost of a quality sleeping bag and down jacket within two or three expeditions. Also, you are sure about the effectiveness of your equipment, its comfort and warmth, especially at 5,000 meters high.

Budget Comparison

Although the cost of renting a down jacket for a trek is a few hundred rupees, buying one will definitely cost you more than renting. This goes similarly with the sleeping bag. If you rent for a single trek, then the choice would be obviously better. Buying seems to become reasonable when the equipment is to be used in three or more treks. It is worth mentioning that the budget should take into account the deposit which most stores require for renting.

Convenience

It is convenient to rent as you may borrow the required items just before leaving and return them immediately after the trek without even packing or washing them. The convenience of buying is a bit different in that you have your equipment anytime you wish to use it without going to Thamel before each trek. You have to choose the option that suits you.

Rent vs Buy at a Glance

The table below shows the comparison between renting and buying.

Use this chart for a starting comparison of trekking equipment. If the majority of your answers go to the left, then renting is preferable for you. If most of your answers go to the right, then buying seems to be more suitable.

When you receive this list, you can divide the gear items between rental and purchasing columns. This trick is a great option for making decisions about what kind of gear to choose and, at the same time, avoiding impulsive purchases in the store. Successful shopping on treks begins with a plan, and there are numerous options for good hiking gear in Thamel, so there is no need to buy things immediately and in a hurry.

Gear You Should Rent

The major criteria for rental goods in Thamel include being heavy, expensive, and useful for a relatively short time. Rental companies purchase such goods in bulk, distribute them among numerous trekkers, and take care of the rented goods to the best of their ability. The rental quality differs significantly from one shop to another: in some shops, there are clean and good-quality products manufactured by popular brands; in other places, people rent dirty and used goods that have been used for many years. Hence, it is important to inspect them, and we talk about this point below.

Down Jacket

A warm down jacket will be the most useful one to rent. It is something you will use in the mornings and evenings at high elevations, but you will not use it while walking in the valley during the day. A decent down jacket costs a lot, and it is used by most people just for a few days a year. Renting seems to be more logical. Inspect the stitching, zipper, and loft. The loft of good jackets should puff up when pressed. Shops usually offer to rent down jackets in various warmth levels, so it's better to check which one is suitable for your trip.

Sleeping Bag

A rated sleeping bag is necessary during any treks that use teahouses, since blankets may be few and thin in high altitude regions. People generally like to rent rather than buy, since a good quality sleeping bag is large and costly. A typical recommended temperature rating is about minus 10 or 15 degrees Celsius for a standard teahouse trek in the colder season. When renting sleeping bags, make sure the sleeping bag is clean; smell it, check its zip and look for any stains. It is a wise idea to take your own thin liner to maintain hygiene and keep warm.

Trekking Poles

Poles alleviate strain on your knee joints in case of extended downhill hikes and help keep your balance when climbing and walking down on rugged terrain. Given the fact that they are relatively lightweight yet expensive to buy, renting them becomes an excellent solution for trekkers. Be certain that the lock is solid while you use the poles, that the sections are not crooked, and that the poles' tips and straps are not damaged. It is better to have no poles than to have those which collapse in the middle of the trail.

Crampons (Seasonal)

Crampons are necessary when following the trail that passes through areas of ice and snow cover, including some mountain passes in the winter season. For most trekking routes, crampons are unnecessary. Due to the specific character of their utilization, which occurs very seldom, their rental cost becomes evident. Verify that they fit well in your shoes and find out from your guide if crampons will really be needed in your particular case.

Gaiters

Gaiters protect your boots from snow, mud, and pebbles. These are particularly useful during treks on snow-covered terrain and in monsoons when the trails are muddy. Gaiters are cheap to rent, and the additional layer on your legs will provide much comfort. Ensure that the straps and closure of gaiters are in good condition.

Why Renting These Items Makes Sense

There are several reasons for renting these items. Primarily, it is an economical approach since they are costly to purchase, take up baggage space, and are infrequently used. Moreover, by choosing to rent, you will select the equipment that best suits your trek without worrying about the fact that the one you purchased might be unsuitable for the next one. Another practical advantage is that you will not have to pack and lug this equipment back home. You can land light and rent all the bulky equipment in Thamel.

Gear You Should Buy

Personal equipment is quite different. Your boots, socks, and base layers will be in constant contact with your skin for hours every day, and what may seem minor today could turn into something serious by the end of several days of hiking. Skilled guides always recommend purchasing these items instead of renting them for a good reason - hygiene, comfort, and overall value. This personal equipment is well worth its price. Selecting the proper Best Trekking Boots for Nepal is much more important than renting them.

Boots

Boots are the most important thing you will buy. Rented boots are never an option, since every foot is unique and previous wear could have changed the way the boot supports your foot. Blisters will ruin your trip in a matter of days. Select boots that provide sufficient ankle support, have a good grip and a waterproof interior if you will be hiking in wet areas. Most importantly, break them in prior to your trip in Nepal, if possible. If you decide to buy them in Thamel, be sure to allocate at least a couple of days for short walks with them, wearing socks that you will use on your trek.

Socks

Purchase multiple pairs of good quality woolen or synthetic socks. They regulate the moisture level, minimize friction, and thus prevent blisters. Regularly changing socks is necessary for your feet to remain dry and comfortable. Socks are relatively cheap in comparison with the comfort they bring, and no one would like to wear the ones that have been worn by others before.

Base Layers

Base layers and thermal underwear are put on close to the skin and take the sweat away from the body, keeping it warm and dry. Purchasing your own base layers guarantees choosing the right size and material. Two sets are usually recommended for changing after a day of sweating. It is a part of proper hiking attire.

Underwear

It goes without saying that you should purchase it yourself. Moisture-wicking and quick-dry underwear minimizes chafing and is easy to wash in teahouses.

Gloves

They can get lost easily and aren’t really meant to be shared. They need to fit well for warmth and dexterity. Thin liners and a warming outer glove should serve all purposes, and having your own means they’ll be your size and clean.

Water Bottles

A good purchase is a tough reusable bottle or a hydration system. There are many trekkers who prefer using water purification tablets/filters instead of buying plastic bottles along the way. It’s more environmentally friendly and costs less. Your bottle needs to have a wide mouth and withstand hot water because a warm bottle inside your sleeping bag can come in handy on chilly nights.

Personal Medical Kit

The contents of your medical kit need to include all your prescription drugs, treatment of blisters, pain-relief products, rehydration salts, and other items recommended by your physician. This list is personal, and only you can decide what you need. Ask your physician if you’re concerned about altitude, and don’t leave this to shops.

Why Experienced Guides Recommend Buying These Items

The guides have experienced over and over again how ill-fitting boots result in blisters, being wet in the base layer causes feeling cold at night, and lack of hygiene leads to stomach problems. They advise purchasing personal trekking equipment because the comfort level influences one’s mood, which further determines whether people will reach their trekking destination. In addition, purchasing has long-term effects; proper boots and socks will last for many trips, and trekking clothes chosen will last for a long time.

Renting vs Buying Cost Comparison

One of the most common questions that people who go trekking have is cost, and thus there is a cost comparison table of some common items below. This table provides information about approximate costs, which may vary because of seasonal variations and also shops. Costs may be different because of brands, quality and your bargaining skills. Consider the cost table below when planning your trekking budget, and make sure you check current costs when going to Nepal.

Understanding the numbers. A two-week trek with rental down jackets, sleeping bags and trekking poles would cost around NPR 3,000 to 8,000, depending on the price and bargaining skills. Buying the same equipment would cost many times more than this amount. But in the future, when trekking another time, the purchase of this good quality equipment would be cheaper per trekking occasion. Just remember that poor imitations of branded goods could also cost less than the branded goods but would not work properly; hence, cheap does not always mean good.

Choosing between renting and buying your trekking equipment would definitely help you save on Annapurna Circuit Trek cost.

When counting the cost of either purchase or rental of the equipment, do take into account the possibility of making additional unexpected purchases like the replacement of the glove or additional socks. Budget trekking does not mean the lowest-cost spending but a proper one.

Best Places to Rent Trekking Gear in Thamel

There are many outdoor equipment stores in Thamel, but the quality of the rental equipment and the Kathmandu-style shops varies from shop to shop. Rather than sending you to one particular shop, you should know how to pick a trustworthy store on your own. Since the shops change every year with respect to the ownership, stock and quality, a skill that you can use again and again will be more useful to you than the name of one shop that may go out of date. This is how you should select a shop in Thamel while walking around.

Read more about our Kathmandu Travel Guide.

What Makes a Good Rental Shop

• Variety. A good shop provides several varieties of each product in different sizes and thermal properties. If a shop has only one down jacket and one sleeping bag, your chances of getting appropriate gear for your route are low, which means you won't have many choices. A more diverse product range means that the shop owner makes regular investments in stock and regularly updates it.
• Good maintenance of the products. Pay attention to the storage. Gear hanging on clothes hangers and neatly stacked up in a clean and dry room is most likely better taken care of than all the products kept in one messy heap somewhere in the corner. Ask whether they wash the sleeping bags and down jackets after use. A reliable answer from a store means a lot. If the shop smells of mold – you better go elsewhere.
• Honest pricing. The lowest possible cost does not necessarily mean the best deal for you. Low prices may indicate outdated products or some hidden costs. At least three shops should be compared, and you'd better ask about the deposit, the rental period, and any late return charges. If everything is clear, the shop is honest.
• Customer support. Think about the situation when the zipper fails during your hike, and you have to return the gear one day later due to some problems. The companies which can be trusted usually have a written policy which you can understand and discuss with them. Sometimes the companies even write a condition for each piece of equipment in order to avoid any misunderstanding in the future. The companies which can be trusted will tell you everything you need to know about your particular route and season without trying to make you rent extra equipment.

Signs of a trustworthy shop:

• Equipment is neat.
• You are not pressured to purchase something.
• The price and deposit system is clear.
• A receipt is provided.
• Opinions about the company are the same in the guides' or other trekkers' reviews.

Red flags:

• Damp smell or musty smell.
• Pressure or unwillingness to check zippers and poles.
• No information about the deposit system.
• Pressure to rent extra gear.

Getting help from your tour guide, hotel, or even trekking agencies is among the guaranteed methods of finding an honest store. The tour guides know the stores whose products are in good condition because the effects can be felt each year in the field.

Best Places to Buy Trekking Gear in Thamel

As you prepare to buy trekking gear, there are different kinds of stores that you can select from. Generally, the best store that you should select depends on your budget, kind of product, and how long you would want to use the product. There are many types of outdoor shops and hiking stores in Thamel, which you must consider in order to make an informed decision. If you are going to buy trekking equipment in Kathmandu, then it is crucial to know the difference.

Our Thamel Travel Guide contains the best shopping locations.

Local Brands

Nepal has several local outdoor brands as well as some workshops which produce various things such as jackets, bags and clothes. The products they offer tend to cost less compared to imported stuff, and some of their products can be good enough to use during a typical teahouse trek. However, the quality may not be very consistent in this case, and you will need to carefully inspect the stitching, zippers and the material. Local products are good in terms of fleece, thermals and daypacks, and this way you will support the local economy.

International Brands

Real mountaineering equipment from foreign companies can be found at some stores in Nepal, and the prices are quite similar to what you would pay at home or even lower. All of these products tend to have a warranty and good quality, and you should buy such products if you plan to trek quite frequently. You will need to look into the labels, tags and stitching because there are many imitation products.

Budget Stores

The budget stores offer inexpensive merchandise, including locally produced merchandise and copies. There are likely to be some bargains at budget stores, especially items like socks, gloves, hats, and layering wear. The risk would be one of overestimating the quality and warming factors of the merchandise. Remember that the merchandise from the budget stores has to prove its worth when it comes to inspection.

Premium Stores

Premium stores offer better quality merchandise, expertise, and after-sales services. Premium stores are more expensive but offer you better fitting services, authentic merchandise, and accurate information on materials and ratings. Premium stores are good places for buying boots and technical outerwear where making a wrong choice may affect your comfort and even your safety.

Price Differences

While a locally made wool sweater would normally have a lower cost compared to an imported sweater, the genuine down jacket from overseas might actually cost a very high price compared to a locally made product. The products, which are imitations of famous brands, are somewhere in the middle, hence their attractiveness. Definitely, low cost will not be the right choice since you may have to pay much more in case of malfunction while hiking halfway up the mountain.

Compare Quality, Not Just Price

Remember to compare materials, weight, thermal retention, construction, and warranty before buying any equipment. Make sure that you are aware of the fill power of a down product, the waterproof ability of a raincoat, and whether you can exchange it back. Compare several types of equipment before making the purchase. It is always preferable to buy from a shop that is able to explain all the differences, rather than simply telling you about the discounts offered. Spend your money on equipment such as boots and save on accessories like a buff or a hat.

How to Check Gear Quality Before Renting or Buying

The time spent conducting this test takes only a few minutes; the advantage is that it will save you much pain on the way. These are pieces of advice which have been gained from actual experience and inspection work done by guides on the trail. Perform the inspection at the shop in good lighting conditions before buying or renting any kind of equipment.

Start by following these Trekking Safety Tips by purchasing quality equipment.

Zippers

Perform an inspection of all zippers used on your gear. Make sure that they open and close easily and the teeth are in proper alignment. Also pay close attention to the zippers' pullers, as they tend to break off often. Not being able to zip your sleeping bag or jacket when it is very late will make you feel miserable, and it can also be dangerous when it is cold on the mountain.

Down Filling

To test the quality of down in coats or sleeping bags, press on the item and then let go. Down of high quality should immediately return to its shape and be fluffy and even. Flat spots, lumps, or a rough feel are signs of poor-quality filling or damage. Look to see if there are any exposed feathers and if there are any tears in the seams. The coat is probably stuffed with poor-quality stuffing if it is puffy yet very light for the warmth it provides.

Waterproof Coating

The first thing you should look for when testing for a waterproof finish is peeling, flaking, or stickiness of the outer layer fabric. The easiest way to test waterproofing is to drop a little bit of water on it and see if it rolls off or gets absorbed by the fabric. Seam tape must be firmly bonded and not lifting. You could always ask the seller for permission to conduct such a test, and a decent seller will agree.

Boot Soles

Turn the boots upside down and study the sole. It should be deeply grooved and securely fastened without any cracks or gaps. Bend the sole and the boot and study its rigidity. Test it by wearing it and walking around the store with trekking socks on, including going upstairs and downstairs. You need to be careful about pressure points and heel sliding, as even the smallest flaw leads to blisters.

Trekking Pole Locks

Adjust the pole and lock it at different lengths. Test the pole by putting pressure on it. Check whether it slips or collapses. Study the sections for any bending or cracking. Moreover, make sure that the tip and the handle of the poles are tightly locked. Failure of the lock results in injuries when descending steep terrain.

Sleeping Bag Condition

First of all, smell it for dirt, marks, holes, and worn-out seams and look at the zipper and hood drawstring. Unzip completely and shake the product to evaluate the condition of the filling. Find out the temperature ratings and ask whether the sleeping bag is made by reputable producers. You should be very careful in purchasing an extremely low-temperature sleeping bag that is very light and thin since its rating might be deceptive.

Spotting Fake Gear

The counterfeiting of well-known brands is common in tourist places. The below-listed features might indicate a counterfeit product: fuzzy branding, poor sewing, poor labeling, unusual spelling and unusually low cost. Usually, a genuine product has a high-quality finish and consistency in detailing. Ask about the place of production and its warranty period. A shop that fails to give information about the item is suspicious. Do not forget that the longevity of equipment depends on its manufacturing, not on its branding.

Common Shopping Mistakes to Avoid

This is how it usually turns out with novice trekkers. And all these mistakes can be easily avoided if one knows about them. Always remember it is good to know some buying advice for trekking gear. The best thing one can do is to profit from the mistakes of others, and there are many such mistakes with every guide.

Read our Nepal Trekking Tips and don't make these mistakes ever again.

Renting Damaged Gear

In their hurry, many people agree to use whatever equipment they are offered. But later they find out that the zipper is broken, the padding is worn out, or there is an unbearable smell coming from somewhere. Always check your rented gear carefully before you go out of the store and photograph everything that doesn't seem right to you.

Buying Fake Branded Products

The affordability of branded garments will always tempt everyone. The worst part is that almost all these counterfeit brands use poor-quality insulation, lighter material, and poor sewing. Moreover, their thermal ratings can be completely false. Though counterfeit branded jackets that resemble the genuine one will give you enough warmth in your city, they will not function for you if you ascend to 4,000 meters above sea level.

Shopping Without Comparing Prices

The prices of similar products in Thamel may vary from shop to shop considerably. It is wise to make a tour of at least three different shops before making a purchase. Price comparison will definitely help you save a lot of money.

Buying Unnecessary Equipment

The inexperienced trekkers usually buy unnecessary equipment which will be needed only once during the trek, such as different gadgets, heavy jackets which could easily be rented or even gloves. Think about whether you can rent, borrow, or simply do without the item. Look through your list of things to take, and don’t make your backpack too heavy, because every extra kilogram means one more kilogram to carry uphill.

Forgetting to Test Boots

This is the most serious mistake. Boots bought on the day before the beginning of the trek without trying them on cause blisters anyway. In case you have to buy new boots in Thamel, buy them in advance, try walking in Kathmandu in these boots, and use the same socks as you plan to use during the trek.

Money-Saving Tips for Shopping in Thamel

Shopping in Thamel is more like an art. The following shopping tips will help you to save money and get quality goods without any concessions. This advice concerns locals' shopping tips, not tricks. In almost all shops, you can negotiate, and being polite is more effective than being aggressive.

These shopping tips will definitely be useful for reducing your Nepal travel budget.

Compare Prices

Just walk around several streets before buying something. Write down the prices of the same goods in different shops. You will be able to determine the average price, and it will be obvious that you know the prices of goods.

Ask About Package Discounts

In case you are going to rent several goods at once, ask for a package price. Often, you can get a discount by renting a jacket, sleeping bag and poles at once. Besides, sometimes you can get a discount depending on the rental period or if you order your gear from your trekking agency. It will cost you nothing, but you will get a better price.

Negotiate Politely

Bargaining is an acceptable practice in Thamel, but it is more important how you do it. Always remain polite while smiling and be ready to leave. Try to make a fair offer from the very beginning rather than offering something extremely low. In most cases, a polite negotiation leads to a satisfactory conclusion, and the shop owners appreciate their respectful clients. There are certain fixed-price stores; in fact, some large stores don’t haggle, and that is absolutely fine. Good bargains in Thamel need patience.

Rent Only What You Need

Talk about your itinerary, the season and whatever you will have available to your guide or trekking agency. Never hire a bulky expedition jacket for trekking when it is low-altitude trekking in the warm season. Choose the equipment based on actual needs, and then you will save on the cost and weight of trekking gear.

Buy Small Items at Home if Cheaper

Things such as socks, a T-shirt, a headlamp or a first aid kit might be bought prior to your departure if they cost less and are easier to obtain at home. In that way, you'll manage to economize a bit and leave expensive things to be rented in Thamel. This is actually one of the ways smart travelers manage to save money on their vacations.

What Gear Is Included in Most Trekking Packages

The inclusions in the package vary greatly depending on the provider. Some tour operators include almost everything; others include only the minimal things. Therefore, it is important to know beforehand whether you need to purchase or rent the things yourselves. Below is the list of things that should be included in a trekking package.

It is always important to verify the equipment included in your Annapurna Circuit Trek Package when you decide to rent the equipment.

• Guide: A guide is usually part of the package. The guide has knowledge of the route, weather, and altitude and gives good advice related to equipment.
• Porter: A porter is usually included in the package and carries some of your luggage. Verify the weight, as it will be shared by two people and not that much weight (in kilograms).
• Duffle Bag (if provided): A duffle bag is provided in the package for the porter to carry. Usually, the duffle bag is returned after the trek. Check if it is your own.
• Sleeping Bag (occasionally): In some kits, the operator gives you a sleeping bag, but there might be problems with its quality and warmth. Temperature and hygiene are important factors.
• Down Jacket (sometimes): In some packages, operators provide you with down jackets on loan. You will need to ask for more information about it, as it is shared by many trekkers.

Clarify in advance which products are included in the rental contract, what their weight restrictions are, and how damages are handled. A short conversation will save you money and eliminate double purchases of equipment included in rental packages. Procedures are different; do not guess and ask questions if something seems unclear in the list of trekking services and tour equipment.

Final Recommendation: Who Should Rent and Who Should Buy

It is more beneficial to give balanced recommendations rather than general ones. Below you will find well-reasoned advice regarding equipment purchases for travelers depending on their situation. This suggestion was made based on real-life experiences in Kathmandu.

The purchase or rental of equipment also depends on the Best Time to trek in Nepal.

This will help you see how your recommendations fit into real-life practice and help you make the right decisions while trekking. Equipping should also consist of adapting your equipment to the upcoming trek. This means that a few-day, low-altitude summer trek does not require as much equipment as a high-altitude winter trek. The first one will be quite easy and will be more about renting the equipment, and the second one might mean purchasing the equipment. No matter which kind of trekker you are, smart travel will guarantee you success.

Conclusion

Rental and purchase do not contradict each other. Both are means, and the most efficient trekkers take advantage of both options. Rental is more beneficial for infrequent trekkers and heavy equipment, while purchase is more convenient for personal equipment and frequent treks. Whichever choice you make, always check equipment carefully before making payments, and try to shop wisely in Thamel to save money and buy quality products.

The most useful advice that can be provided by experienced guides is rather straightforward – take care of your feet, keep warm during the night and make sure your backpack is not overloaded. Test all the equipment before departure from Kathmandu, feel free to ask any questions and do not hesitate to leave the store if you feel uncomfortable. Bear in mind that prices and inclusions in the packages vary, so you should always check current prices and services of your trekking company.

Choose Nepal Trekking Packages and then decide on the trek before purchasing your trekking accessories.

Prepare yourself with the best trekking travel gear, create your trekking shopping list, and start trekking prepared for your trekking adventure to the trailhead. Our full trekking shopping guide will assist you in making the right trekking gear purchases in Nepal and trek your adventure happily. Make the right trekking purchases, and the Himalayas will thank you.

FAQ

Is it cheaper to rent trekking gear in Nepal?

In case of one-time trekking trips, renting is always cheaper than purchasing, especially when it comes to heavy gear such as down jackets, sleeping bags, and poles. The daily rental costs are much lower than purchase costs. In case of frequent treks, purchasing becomes cheaper over time.

Is rented gear clean?

Depends on the rental service – reputable services wash or air out the equipment between clients; others don’t always practice it. Always smell and visually check every piece of equipment, also for stains. Carrying your own sleeping bag liner guarantees extra hygiene and warmth. If the equipment looks or smells wet or dirty, request a change or try other rental services.

Can I rent branded gear?

Yes, some shops offer branded equipment by known outdoor brands, although not all rental equipment is branded. Branded equipment usually costs more per day than non-branded equipment. Do not assume that a brand name guarantees quality because there are also imitations around. Make sure you check the quality of sewing, zippers, and filling and ask where the equipment is made before paying.

How much is a down jacket rental?

Down jacket rental costs approximately NPR 100 – 250 per day. The cost depends on the shop and seasonality. Renting for a longer period or combining the rental of several items lowers the price per day. A deposit is usually required. Prices can vary; check the prices at least in three shops.

Should I buy trekking boots?

Yes, almost always. Boots need to fit and be broken in, and rentals rarely satisfy these criteria. Blisters can spoil a trek. Try to buy your boots prior to the trip, break them in with trekking socks, and choose appropriate ankle height and sole grip.

Can I negotiate prices in Thamel?

Yes, polite bargaining is usual in most Thamel shops, though a few fixed-price shops will not bargain at all. Compare prices before negotiating, do package negotiations for rentals of more than one thing, and always be polite. Do not make an exceptionally low offer; you may just decide to walk away from any unreasonable price offered to you.

Are fake brands common?

Yes, there are plenty of counterfeit outdoor gear products in Kathmandu. Although the fake brands may work fine everywhere except for trekking purposes, they lack warmth and durability.

Can I rent gear for Everest Base Camp?

It is quite normal for many people to hire equipment for their trip to Everest Base Camp in Kathmandu. This includes down jackets, sleeping bags, poles, and even crampons. You should be aware of the warmth ratings of the gear depending on the season you are going, since the higher elevations are extremely cold. Buy your own boots, socks, and base layer clothing. Always check first what your trekking company gives you before hiring.

What happens if I damage rented gear?

It depends on the shop, so it is advisable to find out before hiring. A little bit of damage is acceptable, but if it is too much, then it might be deducted from your deposit or charged for repairs. Always take photos of the equipment you hire before leaving, and ensure you have your receipt with you. Notify the shop of anything that might happen while on your trek.

Do trekking companies provide gear?

Yes, inclusions differ significantly. A guide, porter, and duffel bag may be supplied; some may give you a sleeping bag or a down jacket. Their quality and warmth vary. Ensure that whatever it is you want to rent or buy, you know in writing exactly what is included.