Caucaisus Trekking Packing List — The Ultimate Checklist

The Caucasus Mountains are unforgiving when it comes to poor preparation — weather above 2,500m can shift in under 30 minutes. This checklist has been curated by our mountain guides. Also, be sure to read our [Complete Safety Guide](/blog/is-georgia-safe-to-travel).

Footwear (The Most Important Part)

• Trekking Boots — Ankle-high and waterproof (Gore-Tex or similar). Break them in at home for at least 2 weeks before your tour.
• Change of Shoes — For relaxing at the camp or guesthouse.
• Socks — Wool or Merino, 4-5 pairs. Avoid cotton socks — they retain moisture and cause blisters.

Clothing — The Three-Layer System

Layer 1 (Base): Merino or synthetic thermal shirt and leggings. Bring 2 sets — one for trekking, one for sleeping.

Layer 2 (Insulation): A fleece or a lightweight down jacket.

Layer 3 (Shell): Waterproof and windproof jacket + trousers (Gore-Tex). You might not wear them the whole trip, but they are essential.

Extras: Hats (for both sun and cold), gloves, a buff (for neck and face protection), and sunglasses (UV protection is mandatory — radiation is intense at high altitudes).

Altitude Guide — Estimated Temperatures

| Altitude | Day (July) | Night | | --- | --- | --- | | 1,500m (Villages) | +20...+25°C | +10°C | | 2,500m (Passes) | +10...+15°C | +2°C | | 3,500m (Mountain Base) | +5°C | -5°C |

Medical Kit

• Diamox or similar for high altitude — for tours above 3,000m. Consult your doctor beforehand.
• Ibuprofen, Paracetamol.
• Blister plasters (Compeed) — essential for foot sores.
• Personal medications with at least a 2-day extra supply.
• Antiseptic and bandages.

For more on food and water safety, see: [Health and Safety](/blog/georgia-travel-health-water-food).

Equipment

• Luggage: A 50-65L backpack for mountain tours; wheeled suitcases are only suitable for the city portions.
• Water Bottle: At least 1.5L. A water filter (like LifeStraw) is useful for village springs.
• Headlamp + extra batteries.
• Power Bank: 10,000+ mAh — electricity in mountain villages can be temperamental.
• Spending Money: Cash in GEL (Georgian Lari) — POS terminals are rarely available in remote villages.

What Not to Bring

• Heavy books or excessive electronics — every gram counts in your backpack.
• Expensive jewelry — an unnecessary risk in shared guesthouses.
• High-priced minor warmers — you can buy effective local wool items in Georgia for around 50 GEL.

Next Step

Now that you're packed, check out our [Mountain Tours](/tours) or [Contact Us](/contact) for a personalized itinerary.