Most trekkers only need their first-aid kit for blisters, an upset stomach or a headache, but on a remote trail you can't nip to a pharmacy. Here's a sensible personal kit.
Quick answer: Pack blister care, plasters and tape, oral rehydration salts, your personal medicines, pain relief, sunscreen and lip balm. Ask your doctor about altitude medicine (acetazolamide/Diamox) and an antibiotic for traveller's diarrhoea. Our guides carry a group first-aid kit, and many carry a pulse oximeter.
Feet
- Blister plasters (hydrocolloid), zinc oxide tape, small scissors.
- Antiseptic wipes or cream.
Stomach
- Oral rehydration salts: the most useful item in the kit.
- Anti-diarrhoeal tablets for emergencies on travel days.
- An antibiotic, if your doctor prescribes one.
- Hand sanitiser. See hygiene on treks.
Altitude, head and chest
- Pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
- Diamox, if your doctor agrees. See Diamox for trekking.
- Throat lozenges: the dry, cold air causes the "Khumbu cough".
Sun and skin
- High-factor sunscreen and SPF lip balm. UV is much stronger at altitude.
- Moisturiser for cracked hands.
Your own medicines
Bring enough for the whole trip plus spares, in original packaging, with a note from your doctor. Tell your guide about any conditions.
Pharmacies
Kathmandu and Pokhara have many pharmacies; Namche Bazaar and some bigger villages have small health posts. Higher up, there is little. Make sure your insurance covers helicopter rescue.
This is general information, not medical advice. See a travel doctor before you go.