Summit Climb Packing Guide
Mouse over the yellow dots for more information about an item.
- Headlamp
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Headlamp
A good bright light is a must, using LED or traditional halogen is fine. Bring extra batteries. - Sunscreen and Lip Balm
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Sunscreen and Lip Balm
An SPF of a minimum 20 is recommended and make sure to bring some lip protection with SPF in it as well. - One-Quart Water Bottles
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One-Quart Water Bottles
Bring at least 2, consider 3. Keeping hydrated is key. - Glove Combo
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Glove Combo
3 layers or combos: lightweight (windstopper), an insulated ski glove or mitt that is water resistant, and a heavy duty mitten for those seldom but sometimes seen storm days. - Trail Lunches
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Trail Lunches
Bring lots of snacks with tons of carbs. Bring food that you like! - Ice Axe
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Ice Axe
A 70 cm ice axe is common for most people: if you are 5'8 and smaller, 65 cm will work, 6'3 and taller, 75 cm. - Glacier Glasses
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Glacier Glasses
Dark lense that block at least 85% visible light; make sure your glasses have sideshields, or are fully wrap around to protect your eyes. - Toiletries
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Toiletries
Toothbrush, tooth paste, small first aid kit and toilet paper are always nice to have in a small stuff sack. - Warm Hat
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Warm Hat
Needed to keep your head warm, wear something low profile with no ball on top for better fit under your helmet. - Shell Jacket
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Shell Jacket
A vital barrier in the wet and cold Northwest conditions, very light weight. - Insulated Parka
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Insulated Parka
Essential on the upper mountain, even in July. - Crampons
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Crampons
General mountaineering, 10 or 12 point. - Gaiters
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Gaiters
Keeps snow out of your boots and protects your $300 pair of pants. - Socks
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Socks
Keep away from cotton socks. If you like liners great, but not essential, bring an extra set for your summit day. - Lug-Sole Climbing Boots
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Lug-Sole Climbing Boots
When climbing Rainier, plastic double boots are still the way to go. - Ski Poles
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Ski Poles
Nice to have on the way to Muir, knee-savers on the way down. - Sleeping Bag
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Sleeping Bag
Stuff it in the bottom of your pack, and forget about it. Synthetic is recommended because of the potential of wetness. - Shell Pants
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Shell Pants
Essential as a wind and rain barrier up high, and extremely light weight. - Insulated Pants
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Insulated Pants
These are the pants you will spend the majority of your climb in, comfortable and cozy, side zips for easy on and off over boots and crampons. - Base Layer
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Base Layer
Stay away from cotton. Light colors are better than dark... cooler when it's hot. Zip-T is great for ventilation. 100% Merino wool does not stink as bad as capeline after heavy use. - Insulated Top
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Insulated Top
Light layer for the lower mountain and heavy layer for the upper. Wear both for extreme cold and wind. - Backpack
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Backpack
Look for a 4500-4800 cubic inch pack for a summit climb, around 6000 cubic inches for an expedition. Design should be simple, lightweight, and capable of carrying 40+ lbs comfortably.
