Winter wear is certainly vital on the summit of Mount Kinabalu.

We read as many blogs as we could find regarding Mt K and from my experience the posts I have read have certainly over packed. We did not take much in comparison but even still we could’ve gotten away with less. It is best to keep it light and simple as you are carrying your items and it would be best to save your back and keep your energy for the climb.

However, the combination of being sweaty from the walk, the icy chill from the wind and the fact you summit before the sun rises creates an exceptionally cold experience at the summit. This chilling surprise, post check in point, also makes it difficult in packing your lightest, so please ensure you use your own discretion and pack sensibly. For this I have separated my packing lists to outline the necessities for the summit.

Here is my advised packing for the 2 day 1 night trek;

• Bag cover – to keep your bag dry in chance of rain
• Underpants
• Change of hiking socks
• Wet wipes – to cleanse yourself unless you wish to brave a cold shower at Pendant Hut but keep in mind you don’t get a towel so you’d have to carry your own with you.
• Head torch with spare batteries – your head torch is needed for dinner as well as for ascending in the morning. During this time your head torch will be on for about 5 hours so spare batteries are essential.
• Hiking pole – I always use only 1 and find it particularly useful when descending
• Sturdy hiking shoes/boots
• Shorts or tights- particularly for the days as they are hot and steamy
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Breathable trekking clothes- 1 short sleeved and 1 long sleeved top
• Energy bars
• Electrolytes
• Rock climbing gloves – that provide your hands with protection from the elements particularly if you are doing Via Ferreta or Walk the Torq.
• Sunscreen
• Deodorant

If you are taking any valuables I’d recommend a small dry bag or plastic bags to ensure your items do not get greeted by the ever changing weather.

There is electricity and power points available too so bring your adaptors and you can charge your electronics at the hut.

What do I need in addition for the summit?

• Long trekking pants – the morning summit is very cold
• Warm/ waterproof trekking jacket – particularly warm for the summit
• Thermal shirt
• Winter gloves
• Beanie
• Scarf

If you require any items once you are in KK then I’d recommend visiting the following stores for your purchases. However, I cannot guarantee authenticity on ‘branded’ items.

Store                   Location

Tech City            Next to Cock and Bull at Jesselton Point

Tongs.                 L/G floor of Suria Sabah Shopping mall

For further information on what to expect during the hike please read my blog Mount Kinabalu which may provide more insight and may also further assist you with your packing tasks.