# A Day in the Life of a Trekking Porter and Guide

_Published 11 June 2026_

Behind every trek in Nepal is a team: a licensed guide, and porters who carry the bags. Their work is skilled, physical and seasonal.

**Quick answer:** Guides lead, translate, manage acclimatisation and keep trekkers safe. Many start as porters and progress. Porters carry trekkers' bags, typically loads for two people. The **IPPG** sets **30 kg** as the maximum load. Good companies provide fair pay, insurance, warm clothing, footwear and shelter. Most work in the two main seasons and farm or do other work in between.

## A porter's day

Porters rise early, pack loads into a doko (basket) or tie duffels with a namlo (head strap), and walk at their own pace, usually reaching the lodge before trekkers. They eat dal bhat twice a day and sleep in porter quarters.

## A guide's day

Guides wake first and sleep last: checking how everyone slept, ordering meals, watching for altitude symptoms, arranging rooms and calling ahead. They carry first aid and communication, and know every lodge owner on the trail.

## Training and licensing

Trekking guides in Nepal are trained and licensed, covering first aid, altitude and culture. Many guides speak several languages.

## Responsible trekking

- Book with a company that has a clear porter policy.
- Keep your duffel within the weight limit. See [baggage limits](/blog/trekking-baggage-weight-limits-nepal).
- Tip at the end of the trek. See [tipping in Nepal](/blog/tipping-in-nepal-guide).

See also [hiring a guide and porter](/blog/hiring-guide-and-porter-in-nepal) and [Sherpa culture](/blog/sherpa-culture-guide).

## Frequently asked questions
### How much does a porter carry?
IPPG guidelines set 30 kg as the maximum; usually loads for two trekkers.

### Are trekking guides licensed in Nepal?
Yes, guides are trained and licensed.

### What is a namlo?
A head strap porters use to carry loads.

### Should I tip guides and porters?
Yes, it is customary at the end of the trek.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/life-of-a-trekking-porter-and-guide