Before he headed out for Everest, Gulf News spoke to Everest for Peace expedition member Ali Bushnaq on what he plans to pack. In a last minute interview, Ali briefed us about his expedition must-haves:
Hiking boots
"I will bring Italy OneSport shoes," says Ali. "They run up to the knee and they are very comfortable because they are multi-layered and waterproof." He already has a pair ready in Nepal. "Size thirteen," he says with a grin. A pair of boots costs about Dh500.
Clothes and face mask
You will need multi-layer clothing for climbing in changing temperature. "One or two layers of lightweight clothing under fleece will work well." On top of this, he will wear a lightweight windbreaker and down suit for the summit. And plenty of lightweight socks.
Crampons
A climber's best friend, crampons must be secured to the boots. "People slip because they forgot their crampons. Never walk without them," Ali advices. Bring a spare for safety.
Rope
Always carry a rope and hold on to it, Ali says. "Also have a safety rope tied to your friend. Tie yourself in to each other if there are no fixed ropes at dangerous sections so that if you fall into a crevice, you reduce the risk of falling to your death."
Water
You need around 4-5 litres of water at altitude to feel great. When climbing, you dehydrate a lot so drink, drink, drink!
Ice Axe and harness
This will help you get better leverage while climbing on ice.
Oxygen
Climbers will each need at least 20 3-litre bottles of oxygen. Each bottle weighs around 2.6 kg when full. "We carry one canister of oxygen at a time. Our sherpas help us carry the other canisters and they help us by distributing it along the route up to the top."
Sleeping bag and tent
Sleep is essential so make sure you will have the most comfortable one you can have. Two or three sleeping bags will be needed for the climb. Bring high quality tents.
Communication
A satellite phone and laptop. "We will also bring batteries and maybe a generator for power."
