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Commercial outfitters usually supply the group climbing equipment, tents, kitchen materials, and food. Team members are responsible for bringing their own personal gear, including all appropriate clothes, sleeping bags, and climbing equipment (including harness, helmet, boots, ice axes, crampons, and belay device). Limit yourself to about 5060 pounds of personal gear that will all fit into a large, sturdy duffel. Outfitters will provide a detailed equipment list; many even rent or sell gear.
A word of advice: Do not go on a trip with brand-new gear. Test your clothing and equipment well before you depart. The mountains are no place to find out something doesn't work. That money-back guarantee won't do you much good out in the field.
Dress for success: Extremes of climate and temperature are the norm on climbing trips. You may be sweltering in Katmandu one day, then camping on a glacier at 20,000 feet a few weeks later. And don't forget to bring lots of sunscreen.
Outfitters will bring generous amounts of tasty food. (Gaining weight on a climbing trip is a frequent outcome, contrary to popular belief!) Nevertheless, most people bring a stash of goodies from home to supplement local fare. Good coffee, canned treats, and chocolate can really boost morale.
Where are you going?
What do you want to do?
