What to Pack for a Northern Pakistan Trip: Complete Packing List (2026)
June 24, 2026 · 6 min read
From layered clothing to power banks, here is a complete packing list for a Hunza, Skardu or Naran Kaghan trip, organized by category so you do not forget the essentials.
Why Packing Right Matters in the Mountains
Northern Pakistan's weather can shift fast: warm daytime sun followed by near-freezing nights, even in peak summer. Power and mobile signal can also be limited in remote stretches. A well-packed bag makes the difference between an uncomfortable trip and a smooth one.
Clothing & Layers
Layering is the single most important packing strategy for any Hunza, Skardu or Naran Kaghan trip.
- A warm jacket or fleece, even in summer, for cold nights at altitude
- Quick-dry t-shirts and lightweight trousers for daytime
- A light raincoat or windbreaker, especially during monsoon-affected months
- Thermal layers if traveling in shoulder season (March-April or October-November)
Footwear & Gear
Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes matter more than anything else, since most itineraries involve some walking on uneven terrain at forts, lakesides and viewpoints.
- Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots
- Sunglasses and a wide-brim hat for high-altitude sun exposure
- Sunscreen (high SPF), as UV intensity increases significantly at altitude
- A reusable water bottle and basic first aid kit for minor issues
Health, Documents & Money
CNIC or passport copies, any required permits, basic medication (including altitude sickness tablets if heading toward Deosai, Khunjerab or higher treks), and enough cash, since ATMs are scarce or unreliable beyond Gilgit and Skardu cities.
Tech & Extras
A portable power bank is essential, as electricity can be intermittent in remote guesthouses. Offline maps downloaded in advance help since mobile signal disappears in many valleys. A basic camera or phone with extra storage is worth the weight given the scenery.
Season-Specific Packing Notes
In summer (June-August), prioritize sun protection and light layers for daytime with a warm layer for evenings. In spring and autumn (March-May, September-November), pack heavier layers as temperatures swing more dramatically. In winter, only attempt accessible routes and pack serious cold-weather gear, including thermal base layers and waterproof boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Even in peak summer, nights at altitude can drop close to freezing in places like Khunjerab Pass, Deosai or Fairy Meadows, so a warm jacket or fleece is essential regardless of season.