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.

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.

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 or Contact Us for a personalized itinerary.