Preparing to climb

A simple, high-signal checklist to get you from choosing an objective to arriving ready: inspiration, gear, fitness, insurance, and travel logistics.

1. Get Inspired

Choosing the right objective is the foundation of everything that follows. This section helps you understand different expedition styles, levels of commitment, and what climbing a particular mountain actually involves day-to-day. Through recommended books, first-hand accounts, and long-form guides, you’ll get a realistic picture of the physical, mental, and logistical demands before you commit time, money, and energy to a goal that isn’t right for you.

2. Get Your Gear

Gear decisions can make or break a climb. This section breaks down clothing systems, boots, sleeping setups, and essential equipment based on terrain, altitude, and climate rather than marketing hype. You’ll learn what to prioritise, what can be rented or skipped, and how to build a reliable system that keeps you warm, dry, and efficient across long days in the mountains.

3. Get In Shape

Most climbs fail because of pacing, endurance, or accumulated fatigue rather than lack of strength. This section focuses on practical, time-efficient training that prepares you for long days of uphill movement with a pack. You’ll find guidance on aerobic base building, hiking-specific strength, altitude preparation, and how to taper so you arrive fit rather than exhausted.

4. Get Insured

Insurance is often misunderstood and frequently inadequate for trekking and mountaineering. This section explains what standard travel insurance usually excludes, how altitude limits work, and what to look for in evacuation and rescue cover. You’ll also learn how to match your insurance to your objective so you’re protected if plans change or something goes wrong.

5. Get On The Plane

The final stage is turning preparation into action. This section covers the practical details that often get overlooked: visas, permits, baggage strategy, cash access, SIM cards, vaccination planning, and last-minute checks. A solid logistics plan removes uncertainty and lets you focus on the climb rather than firefighting problems after you arrive.

Preparing to climb – FAQ

How far in advance should I start preparing for a climb?

For most high-altitude treks and expeditions, allow at least 3–6 months of preparation. This gives you time to build hiking-specific fitness, test your gear, and plan logistics without rushing key decisions.

Do I need to be extremely fit to attempt a big trek or expedition?

You don’t need elite fitness, but you do need consistent endurance and the ability to hike for multiple days with a pack. Structured training matters more than natural athletic ability, especially at altitude.

What’s the most common mistake people make when preparing?

Leaving things too late. Fitness, footwear, insurance, and permits all take time. Rushing preparation increases risk, stress, and the chance of having to abandon a trip.

How important is gear compared to fitness?

Both matter, but poorly chosen footwear and clothing can ruin a climb even if you’re fit. Focus on a proven layering system, boots you’ve worn in, and equipment that suits your objective rather than the most expensive options.

Do I need specialist insurance for trekking and mountaineering?

Yes. Standard travel insurance often excludes altitude limits, technical terrain, and helicopter rescue. Always check maximum altitude, evacuation coverage, and exclusions for the activity you’re doing.

Is altitude the biggest risk on most climbs?

For many popular objectives, altitude-related illness is a greater risk than technical difficulty. A conservative itinerary, good pacing, and knowing when to descend are more important than moving fast.

How do I know if I should go guided or unguided?

Consider your experience, the remoteness of the route, local regulations, and rescue options. Guided trips reduce logistical and safety burden, while unguided trips require strong self-sufficiency and contingency planning.

What should I have sorted before booking flights?

Confirm your itinerary, permits, insurance coverage, visa requirements, and baggage needs. Flights should be booked after you understand dates, acclimatisation days, and buffer time.

Can I prepare properly if I have a full-time job?

Absolutely. Most people train around work by focusing on consistency rather than volume. Weekend hikes, mid-week aerobic sessions, and advance planning make preparation manageable.

What’s the best way to use Summit Scanner when preparing?

Start by choosing your objective, then compare expedition operators and itineraries. Use the preparation guides to plan fitness, gear, insurance, and logistics alongside your booking.