High altitude must haves for your next trip
Traveling to high altitude destinations like Cusco, La Paz, or Lhasa requires preparation. Altitude sickness can hit anyone — even fit, experienced travellers — so having the right gear before you go can make the difference between a miserable trip and a great one. Here's what to pack.
1. Altitude sickness prevention
Your first line of defence is prevention. Start before you even land. If you're heading somewhere above 2,500m, speak to your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox), a prescription medication that speeds up acclimatisation. For over-the-counter options, these products have strong reviews from high-altitude travellers:
Summit Altitude Sickness Prevention Patches
72-hour continuous protection. These patches are the most convenient way to manage symptoms while on long trails.
Summit Altitude Sickness Prevention Bundle
The complete toolkit. Includes patches, tablets, and roll-on. Best for those travellers unsure of how their body will react.
2. Fast-acting relief
Even with preparation, symptoms can still strike. Headaches, nausea, and breathlessness can come on quickly at altitude — these are the items to reach for when they do.
Boost Canned Supplemental Oxygen
95% pure oxygen for immediate relief of shortness of breath. Essential for those landing directly in high-altitude cities.
Note: canned oxygen cannot be brought on a plane, but it is widely sold in pharmacies and tourist shops in most high altitude cities — you should have no trouble finding it when you arrive.
Summit Altitude Sickness Emergency Roll-On
Fast-acting roller for on-the-spot relief from headaches and nausea. Compact enough to carry in any pocket or bag.
Allclair Herbal Inhaler
Drug-free herbal inhaler for instant nausea relief. Fits in any pocket — ideal for the moment symptoms hit mid-hike.
3. Hydration and acclimatisation
Staying hydrated is one of the most effective things you can do at altitude. Aim for 3–4 litres of water per day, and consider adding an acclimatisation drink mix to support your body as it adjusts.
Summit Altitude Sickness Acclimation Tablets
Caffeine-free hydration tablets with ginger to prevent nausea and boost oxygen intake. Just drop one in water before ascending.
Acli-Mate Mountain Sport Drink Mix
Natural drink mix with Rhodiola and Ginkgo to support acclimatization, hydration, and energy at altitude. Great for pre-hike prep.