Packing for Mount Kinabalu
Packing list
Packing everything you need and nothing that you don't is the key to keeping your backpack weight under control and making your Mount Kinabalu climb just that little bit easier. Make sure you check the list below at least a few days before your climb and again after packing your bag to be sure you have everything you need. You will need to bring your passport or Malaysian IC with you as it is required for registration at Kinabalu Park. After registration, you will be issued with a climber ID Tag that you are required to wear at all times whilst on the trail. Via Ferrata climbers, please read until the end of the page as there are a few specific items you will need.
Packing tips
- Aim to carry a small backpack weighing no more than 7kg including 2L of water
- Use the luggage storage room at Kinabalu Park to store any extra luggage (RM12 per bag, any size)
- Don't bring a sleeping bag as blankets are provided at Laban Rata and sleeping bags are provided at Pendant Hut.
- Hire a porter if needed, they and their families rely on climbers for income
- Leave space in your bag for your packed lunch, it will be given to you before setting off.
- Remember to wrap the contents of your bag in a plastic bag just in case of heavy rain, especially any electronics!
- Leave anything you don't need for the summit climb at your accommodation and just bring warm clothes, head torch, water, snacks & camera/phone with you to the summit. After sunrise, you will head back down to the accommodation for breakfast and can collect the rest of your belongings before continuing back down to Park HQ
- Contact us with any questions about what to or what not to bring, we'll be happy to help!
What to wear to climb Mount Kinabalu
The temperature at Timpohon gate where you will begin your climb is usually around 18 to 24 degrees and most climbers begin their Mount Kinabalu climb in shorts or leggings and a T-shirt. By the time you reach Layang-Layang shelter for lunch, you will notice the temperature start to drop and may want to add a fleece and/or raincoat.
Your accommodation is located at 3200m asl and the temperature is typically between 8 to 12 degrees. After checking into your room you will want to change into trousers a thermal layer and a fleece plus add a jacket if you are spending much time outside When you wake up at 2am you will want to dress quickly for the summit, pull on some trousers, a thermal layer, a fleece and a jacket. The hike to the summit will help to keep you warm but once you reach the exposed granite slopes close to Low's Peak and finally stop and sit to watch the glorious sunrise you will chill down fast. Bring gloves, a hat and a scarf, the temperature at the summit of Mount Kinabalu is typically 0 to 3 degrees with an additional windchill factor. |
Packing notes for Via Ferrata climbers
In addition to the above, Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata climbers should take note of the following:
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