The adventure starts before the trail

What do I need
for the mountains?

Pack with purpose. Understand your layers, organise your equipment and arrive ready to enjoy the journey.

Build my checklist ↓
A starting point for high-altitude trips in Mexico.

The final list depends on your destination, season and conditions. Alpath provides technical and camping equipment for your route; bring your personal clothing and accessories. International expeditions have their own requirements.

01

Clothing and accessories

Four layers. One adaptable system.

Add or remove layers as your activity and the weather change. Open each tip for a closer look.

01Base layer

Manage moisture

Base layer

A breathable, quick-drying technical top worn next to your skin.

Trail tip +

Choose a comfortable fit that lets you move. Help sweat escape instead of trapping it beneath the rest of your layers.

02Mid layer

Warmth on the move

Mid layer

A fleece adds warmth while you walk.

Trail tip +

Open zippers or adjust layers when you feel hot. You do not need to wear every layer at the same time.

03Insulating layer

Your warmth reserve

Insulating layer

A down or synthetic insulated jacket for cold conditions and breaks.

Trail tip +

Keep it within reach for stops. Protect it from moisture inside your pack.

04Outer shell

Weather protection

Outer shell

A waterproof, windproof jacket to protect you from the elements.

Trail tip +

Check that it fits over your other layers and that the hood and zippers work properly.

Mountain boots
Gloves & mittens
02

Everything within reach

A well-packed bag makes a difference.

25–35 litres as a reference

Confirm the required capacity for your trip. Keep water, snacks, your headlamp and weather protection easy to reach.

Water and energy

Bring 1–2 L water bottles and snacks you know agree with you. Your guide will tell you how much water to carry for your route.

Light and sun protection

Check your headlamp before packing it. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen and category 3 or 4 sunglasses as appropriate for your route. Hand warmers are optional.

03

Safety and progression

The right equipment. The right guidance.

Helmet, poles, harness, ice axe and crampons have different roles. The equipment required depends on the terrain and the activity.

Helmet
Poles
Harness
Ice axe
Crampons

Alpath provides the technical equipment needed for your route. We check fit and boot compatibility with you, and your guide explains how to use it.

04

Camping and rest

Your next day starts with tonight's rest.

Shelter

Alpath provides your tent, selected for the terrain, weather and conditions of your trip.

Sleeping bag

Alpath provides a sleeping bag with a comfort rating suited to the expected temperatures. Keep it dry to preserve its warmth.

Insulation from the ground

Alpath also provides your sleeping mat to insulate you from the ground. Protect your sleeping bag and dry clothing from moisture.

05

Before your ascent

Preparation goes beyond your backpack.

01

Hydration

Look after your hydration in the days before the trip. Do not force excessive amounts, and confirm how much water to carry with your guide. Electrolytes can help replace salts lost through sweating.

02

Food

Eat enough and choose foods you tolerate well. Combine complete meals with easy-to-carry snacks: gummies, nuts, bars, chocolate, seeds, chips or jerky.

03

Rest

Keep a regular sleep schedule and arrive rested. Sleeping at camp may be a new experience: prepare your sleeping system before departure.

04

Medication and altitude

Consult a healthcare professional about altitude or sleep medication. Do not stop prescribed treatment on your own. Acclimatization takes time and gradual ascent; if symptoms develop, tell your guide and do not keep ascending.

Make it yours

Your packing checklist.

Tick your personal items as you pack. Technical and camping equipment is provided by Alpath and is already checked. Your personal selections are saved in this browser.

8 / 27items ready or included
Clothing and footwear
Personal accessories
Pack, water and snacks
Technical equipment · Included

✓ Included by Alpath for your route. No need to pack it.

Camping equipment · Included

✓ Included by Alpath for your route. No need to pack it.

Download the original guide (PDF · Spanish · 15 MB) ↓

Before you buy, ask

Let's check your gear together.

Tell us which trip you are joining and send us your questions about what you already own.

Ask the team ↗