Many dream of seeing the world’s highest peak with their own two eyes but few are able to make it happen. Some get distracted with other things, grow too frail for the journey, or fail to secure the funds. If you are standing at the threshold of this dream, then you are part of the lucky ones so you must make the most of it. Do everything that you can to ensure that you are ready for a Mount Everest Base Camp Trek. While this is not as perilous as an actual climb to the summit, it is still a worthy challenge that deserves respect. The following can help you complete the task with a smile:

Read First-hand Accounts of Past Trekkers

If you haven’t been to the area, then you might get overwhelmed when you reach Nepal and the trail itself. Eliminate unwanted surprises by learning from the experience of the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek. Many of them post blogs about the base camp trek. Some of these are so detailed that you will feel as though you were with them on the journey. These should be eye-opening reads that will make you mentally and emotionally prepared for what you are about to encounter. You can even interact with these authors if you have specific questions.

Get as Fit as You Can Be and Put Time on Your Feet

This trek unfolds over several days and dozens of miles at high altitude. You will be carrying much of your own gear throughout. Your feet will be pounded mercilessly by the terrain. Your lungs will be pushed to its limits. The best thing that you can bring to any trek is a strong mind and body. Physical training is essential to success. Check out the training regimen of past trekkers. Listen to the advice of your guiding company. A combination of hiking, running, and cycling should serve you well. Lift weights if you can.

Gather the Gear You’ll Need and Test Them

You’ll see a long list of gear on many blogs. Learn from what other people brought, what they wish they left behind, and what they wish they had with them. Note that their needs may be different from yours so adjust accordingly. Gather your gear in advance to test them out before the real thing. You should have plenty of time to make changes if things don’t work out.

Go out there, have fun, and be sure to respect the locals.