When traveling in the highland Tibetan regions, unless you're on a guided tour or just taking a short trip to big cities like Lhasa, Bayi, or Shigatse, a backpack and a sleeping bag are essential.
1. About Backpacks.
Generally, men should choose backpacks with a capacity of 65 liters or more, and women 45 liters or more. It's better if they can accommodate a 15-liter smaller bag or a waist pack for storing small items. In addition, as summer rains are frequent, it's recommended to equip your backpack with a rain cover. Based on personal experience, the Peguar series is quite good—well-made, with wide and thick shoulder straps for comfort, and some water resistance, though they are a bit pricey. Freetime backpacks are cheaper (a 70+10 liter model costs just 350 yuan), and the carrying feel is decent, but they aren’t waterproof, and the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom is small, making it difficult to store a sleeping bag.
2. About Sleeping Bags.
If you’re traveling to the Tibetan region in summer and don’t plan to go to remote areas, a regular cotton sleeping bag (80–100 yuan) is sufficient, mainly to keep your other gear clean. If you’re not worried about getting dirty, you might not even need one. But if you're traveling in winter, even in major Tibetan cities, you should bring a sleeping bag. In Lhasa, common rooms at budget hostels like Banak Shöl, Gyirai, and Ya often have no heating in winter. Without a sleeping bag, you might wake up in the middle of the night freezing, even if using the cotton blankets provided. When heading to Ali, the northern Tibetan grasslands, or traveling along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway in winter—even if you're not camping—a down sleeping bag is essential. For winter use without camping, a duck down sleeping bag weighing around 1000 grams with a comfort rating of -10°C is adequate. For camping in the wild, it’s best to have a bag with a comfort rating of -20°C and one that resists down leakage.
3. About Tents
In high-altitude areas, windproof and waterproof performance is key. Don’t skimp by buying cheap ordinary camping tents, and try to buy your tent before you depart—don’t wait until you get to Lhasa. Outdoor gear in Lhasa is expensive, and counterfeit products are common. Of course, if you have money to spare and only plan to pitch a tent indoors or take a short excursion near the city just for show, then go ahead.
4. About Down Jackets
Many netizens think a down jacket is essential for traveling in Tibet. But I believe it depends on your physical condition, the season, and where you’re going. Usually, wearing thermal underwear, a cotton undershirt, and a fleece jacket is enough. Even in Namtso in February, a down jacket isn’t necessary, let alone in summer. Unless you’re going to extremely cold areas, a down jacket is naturally indispensable.
5. About Windproof/Rainproof Jackets
When traveling to Tibet in summer, bringing a windproof/rainproof jacket will make things much easier. This year, the rainy season in Tibet arrived early, with frequent rain in the afternoons and evenings, sometimes lasting for hours. Wearing a windproof/rainproof jacket when going out can effectively protect your belongings from getting wet and also reduce your chances of getting completely drenched.