Skardu Packing List
Everything you need for the Karakoram — organized by category, with season notes.
Seasonal Quick Notes
Spring (Mar-May)
Rain jacket essential. Layer up — mornings are cold, afternoons mild.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Cotton during day, warm layer for evenings. Sunglasses and SPF are non-negotiable.
Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Best packing window: mid-weight jacket handles the whole trip. Colors are magical.
Winter (Nov-Feb)
Serious down jacket (-10°C rated), thermal base, insulated boots. Not for beginners.
Clothing (Layered System)
- Base layers (merino or synthetic) — 2 sets
- Insulating fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell
- Trekking pants (2 pairs) + 1 warm pair
- Quick-dry t-shirts (3-4)
- Thermal underwear (for nights / high altitude)
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, buff/scarf
- Wool socks (3-4 pairs)
- Comfortable sleepwear
Footwear & Gear
- Broken-in hiking boots (waterproof, ankle support)
- Comfortable walking shoes for towns
- Sandals or slippers for evenings
- Daypack (25-35L) for day hikes
- Main duffel or backpack (60-80L)
- Dry bag / rain cover
- Trekking poles (for K2 BC / longer treks)
- Headlamp + spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle (1L+)
Sun & Cold Protection
- High-SPF sunscreen (50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses (UV-400, mountain-grade)
- Hand warmers for winter visits
- Cold-weather cream for dry skin
Health & Medicine
- Personal prescription medications (with prescription)
- Diamox for altitude sickness (consult doctor)
- Pain relievers (ibuprofen / paracetamol)
- Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium)
- Electrolyte packets / ORS
- Plasters, blister pads, antiseptic cream
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
Documents & Money
- Passport (6+ months validity) + 2 photocopies
- Pakistan visa (printed e-visa)
- Travel insurance papers
- Emergency contact list
- US Dollars cash (ATMs are limited in Skardu)
- Pakistan Rupees for local spending
- Credit/debit cards (inform bank about travel)
Electronics
- Phone + charger + universal adapter (Type C/D)
- Power bank (20,000 mAh recommended)
- Camera + extra batteries + memory cards
- Drone (check local regulations first)
- Offline maps downloaded (Maps.me)
Extras that Matter
- Small gifts/sweets for remote villages
- Travel journal + pen
- Snacks & energy bars
- Water purification tablets
- Small cable lock for luggage
- Modest clothing for cultural sites
Still have packing questions?
The Skardu Trips team helps with gear suggestions, rental options in Skardu, and can adjust the list for your exact tour.