Chilean 8 years youngest girl record EBC trek with family

Why We Chose the Everest Base Camp Trek with Kids?

A Family Journey in the Himalayas

We were keen from the beginning to do this trek as a family adventure in the Himalayas. We decided that a trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) – one of the world’s most iconic trekking trails – was attractive for both our adult group and, more significantly, for our children. We wanted something that would be a challenge and bring us closer together, get us outdoors, and let our children experience new cultures, new landscapes.

Educational and Life‑Changing Experience

One reason we had been drawn to take on this trek with our children was the educational opportunity: along these trails of geography, altitude, and weather lay paths for lessons about mountain ecology and cultural immersion. 

For our children (then 13, 15, and 17), we hoped for something beyond sightseeing: to engage them with their surroundings, ask questions, respond to changing circumstances, and emerge more confident and globally aware.

Opportunity for Bonding and Quality Time

In a digital and fast‑moving, yet disconnected world, the trek afforded that uninterrupted time together. Hiking together, sleeping in isolated teahouses, confronting the effects of altitude and fatigue these are conditions that engender trust, teamwork, and long-lasting memories. 

Why Was This the Right Time for Our Family?

We also considered our children’s age and fitness levels, and decided the time was now.

They were old enough (13, 15, and 17) to sense the challenge and consent to participants. They were used to being on the go, and we wanted to build a slow‑paced, family-focused itinerary.

This sounded like the right window to me: not so young that the baby would knock us over, and not so late that our family dynamic or work commitments might clutter things up.

At the time that we were in that stage, we realized it would be doing the EBC trek with kids would provide us with maximum benefit in the long‑term: memories, growth, and connection.

Profile of a Family Trekking to Everest Base Camp Trek

Day by Day Hiking Experience With Kids

We opted for this trek since it has reasonable day lengths, time built in for acclimatisation/rest days, and indeed goes to the famous summit viewpoint of Kala Patthar. “Reasonable-paced itinerary” allowing enough time for your children to acclimatize to the altitude and not having to hike 7‑8 hours every day. Flying into Lukla also eliminates all of the long road travel when trekking with a child. This alternative offers big mountain vistas, while still feeling like adventure right up a pace suited to families.

Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

We began our adventure with a brief flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The youngster sensed the thrill and mild apprehension tiny plane, runway in the mountains. Once in the ground, we move on a 3‑4 hour walk to Phakding with an easy descent to the valley. The woods, the river, and the suspension bridges were all new and exciting to her. It’s a pleasant, “warm‑up” day: altitude is moderate and spirits are good.

Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,443 m) (5‑6 hrs)

This is the day of the first major climb. We ascend slowly to the famous Sherpa town of Namche from Phakding. By now, the landscape change is becoming more dramatic, mountain walls rise up, and the trail passes over bridges, whilst at other times the DudhKoshi runs to our side. For the 8‑year‑old, it was a long but doable climb, made possible by plenty of stops for snacks and the dream of treats in Namche. Reaching Namche is a huge inspiration.

Day 3: Acclimatisation and Rest Day in Namche

This is an important day to let our bodies adjust, and for the kids, especially. We took it slow; gentle walks around town, viewpoints, maybe a museum or monastery to explore, and gave our daughter time to absorb the new environment and heal. The altitude is starting to show now, so the leisurely pace is just right. We swigged hot drinks, played games, and braced for the roughness to come.

Day 4: Trek from Namche to Tengboche (3,875 m) (5‑6 hrs)

Going up again, we follow an increasingly undulating path (fir forest and small villages) to the famous Tengboche Monastery. And then the views of AmaDablam and the ridge of Everest start to unfold. For our daughter, it was thrilling: we stopped at a tea‑house with a view, pointed out peaks, and let her lead for parts of the journey. In the evening in Tengboche, we felt the mountain air fresh, high, and invigorating.

Day 5: Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m) (6‑7 hrs)

It’s a longer day of trekking today with much higher altitude. The track climbs towards the tree line, where it becomes rougher. It was both exciting and exhausting for our young trekker. We made sure she wasn’t carrying a heavy pack, took plenty of rest breaks, monitored her energy, and celebrated each small achievement e.g., you just climbed up that hill or opened the gate, etc. It's also noticeable how less air we get at night up here in Dingboche, and there is very little noise.

Day 6: Rest and Acclimatisation in Dingboche

Another rest and acclimatisation day. During this time, we rested, soaked up the high altitude village atmosphere, and went on a short hike, which took us to a ridge for some panoramic views. The child enjoyed seeing the yak, listening to the sound of the wind, and family bonding time. Today helped us prepare for the higher days.

Day 7: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m) (5‑6 hrs)

The pace of the climb picked up today as we ascended higher and the trail got steeper and rockier. For our daughter, it was a tough day, but we kept the ascent fun by turning it into a game, counting flags and peaks from afar. We were all really feeling the altitude as we reached into Lobuche. 

Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,140 m) to EBC (5,364 m) and back to Gorakshep (7‑8 hrs)

Today was the highlight of our hike – Everest Base Camp. We left early, moved upwards, walking on the barren edge of the glacier and above moraines of the Khumbu Glacier. Our daughter couldn’t have been prouder when she made it to the iconic EBC sign. We had a short party there, but came back down to Gorakshep for the night. It was hard, but the feeling of accomplishment and those stunning views more than made it all worth it.

Day 9: Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5,555 m) to Fly back to Lukla then Kathmandu

We awoke before dawn for the last effort towards Kala Patthar the viewing point above EBC that affords panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. It was icy and cold, but for our daughter, her memory of standing on top of the ridge will last forever. Then we flew back to Kathmandu in a helicopter. The descent was the lap of reward: lighter steps, big smiles, tales to tell.

Days of Trekking, Acclimatisation 

• Trekking (walking) days: Days 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 – a total of 7 active trekking days.
• Acclimatisation/rest days: Days 3 and 6 – 2 full rest/half‑exploration days.
• Flying/arrival day: Day 1 included flight; Day 9 includes flight out.
• High altitude zone: From Dingboche upwards (4 410m), we are now in the high altitude region, so those rest days become increasingly important.
• They balance climbs and rest in a way that gives your 8‑year‐old the best chance of success and of enjoying the views and not burning out.

Hiking To EBC and Kala Patthar Experience

The trek to Kala Patthar stands as the most pivotal part of our trek. We began in the pre-dawn cold from our lodge in Gorakshep (about 5,130 m) to a ridgeline that would bring us up to about 5,550-5,600 m. The air was thin, with each breath heavier than the previous, while below, the sun rose and cast long shadows across the glacier.

The trail steepened dramatically, with switch-backs through moraine and rock, the wind biting and knowing we were high up. The trekking guides warn that it is steep and that at altitude, it makes each step a bit more challenging.

For our 8‑year‑old daughter, it was all about making the ascent a shared experience - we took breaks, admired the prayer flags flapping in the breeze, she led short sections, and we paid close attention to her energy and enthusiasm. 

The third section was the most challenging, scrambling across boulders, and after so many photo breaks full of satisfaction, she crested the top ridge with a smile that made up for every chilly blast. 

The reward: a 360° view of the world's tallest peaks, including Mount Everest, illuminated with morning gold. Group guides often say that the vantage point is steep but doable if you're fully acclimatized.

How Young Is Too Young For EBC Trek? Age, Readiness

Age  and  Readiness: Key Considerations

When planning a family trip like a trek to Everest Base Camp with children, one of the most common questions posed is, How young is too young? As it turns out, age is just one factor in the equation. Factors such as physical readiness, mental maturity, pace adjustments, and how well the itinerary suits young trekkers also need to be considered.

A few trekking guides for the Everest region state that the Nepalese authorities don’t set an official minimum age for the EBC trek. However, practical advice does suggest that the minimum age should likely fall within the range of 8 to 12 years, with consideration of the child’s overall trekking experience, physical fitness, and vocalization of their experience.

In our family case (children ages 8, 13, 15, and 17 years during this trek), our assessment of readiness was made based on their past hiking experience, interest in the experience, and commitment. While our youngest was technically older than many of the "minimum recommended" ages, our ideas would apply just as equally, even if the ages were younger, with adjustments to pace and support.

From what we learned:

• If your child is 10 years old or under, then yes, you may consider the trek, provided that:
• They have demonstrated stamina for prior hiking (enough stamina for long walks, previous high-altitude short day hikes).
• You've included some acclimatisation days, and will consider a trip of 14-16 days to allow for flexibility (instead of a more tightly scheduled trip of 10-12 days).
• You have a strong trekking company/guide with family experience, and an emergency backup plan (evacuation, rest-day buffer).
• If your child is 10 to 12 years old, is good at most physical activities, and you know they can adapt physically and mentally, then yes, the trek is realistic.
• Again, regardless of age, fitness, acclimatisation, pace, and support are always way more important than age alone.

Checklist: Is Your Child Ready?

• Can your child trek for 5+ hours in a day on uneven terrain with a moderately-heavy backpack? Has your child completed at least one long hike (4-6 hours) within the last 3-6 months? 
• Do they know what it means to acclimatize and go at a slower pace
• Are they able to talk about how they are feeling (fatigue, headache, nausea) and when to follow safety protocols?
•  Are you in a position to provide extra rest days, a porter, and/or have added flexibility in your itinerary? 
• Are you prepared to lower your expectations (distance, elevation gains, etc.) based on how your child is doing on the trek? 

If most of the questions are answered yes, then you, as a family, are in a very good position to consider the Everest Base Camp trek as a young kid-friendly adventure. However, if one or more are answered no, potentially consider waiting a year, increase training before the trek, and/or choose a definitely easier trek in Nepal aimed at younger children.

Difficulty Of Everest Base Camp Trek With Kids

To be honest, it ended up being more difficult than we thought  especially when hiking as a family with young children along for the trail.

On average, we were walking for about five to six hours (though sometimes more) a day, and that’s including rest days (or acclimatisation days). There was pushback, and there were consequences directly related to elevation, every step more tiring. 

With kids, the rhythm naturally slows  every rest stop, every word of encouragement, every snack break contributes. The terrain (rocks, pavers, switchbacks, suspension bridges) required concentration and strong legs.

The higher we ascended, the more the problem became one of not just “walk far”, but “mind and body management under altitude”. From around 3,000m and above, it is well-known that the incidence of fatigue, headaches, or other symptoms associated with altitude dramatically increases.

The further we climbed, the more the challenge changed from “walk far” to “staying in control of body and mind at altitude”. Between approximately 3,000m and higher than 5,000m, one is substantially more at risk of fatigue, headaches, or other Altitude‑related symptoms.

For children, this is even more important, they may not be able to identify or verbalize how they're feeling, and then the family has to check in consistently, limit gains day to day, and plan in some extra rest. One guide says you shouldn't gain more than about 500 m a day above ~2,700 m and for kids, you may even want to go slower.

Even with older children or teenagers in the group, the accumulated impact of several days of hiking, the altitude, and modified accommodation started to deplete mental resilience. The youngest in our group often reported trouble most with the non-hiking parts cold nights, shared bathrooms, food prep, and transitioning into the next iteration of the day. One family stated: 

Staying motivated became a conscious endeavor: cheering each other on, setting mini-goals (we'll reach that viewpoint today), and accepting slower days instead of pushing too hard.

Achievable but Demandingly Different

Yes, you definitely can do the Everest Base Camp trek with kids. It isn't easy. The exertion, the altitude, the way you have to move at a pace that's comfortable for kids. With planning, pacing, and flexibility, the experience changes from a check‑off on some "bucket list" to a meaningful family adventure.

All Challenges The Family Faced While Hiking to EBC With Children

Going to the Everest Base Camp (EBC) with children was an amazing experience but it came with more unexpected and real‑world challenges than we first thought.

1. Altitude and Getting Used to the Air

The higher we went, the less air there was to breathe, and it was as though everything was filled with lead. And this wasn’t just impacting us adults it impacted the kids as well. We needed to walk more slowly, take rest breaks, and even have extra “rest” days for our bodies to catch up. You can’t be in a hurry,” one guide said about taking kids trekking, “you have to give them enough time to adjust.”

Because they are so young, the children’s bodies were also still developing, so we had to watch them closely for signs of tiredness and dizziness, or a headache.

2. Long Walking Days and Tough Terrain

It was several hours of walking every day. It was a mix of up and down, rocks, hanging bridges, along with a steep trail, and it got narrow. The kids did get tired, and so did we. And as noted in a family‑trek report, five or six hours of walking isn’t really too bad until you add altitude to the mix.

With children, we found our pace slowed naturally due to extra snack breaks, picture stops, water, and bathroom checks on how everyone was doing.

3. Comfort and Lodging Were Basic

Lodging high in the mountains is functional, but about as basic as you can imagine: cold rooms, shared bathrooms, and hardly any comfort. Children might find this harder, missing home comforts, being disappointed by cold nights, and less hot water, and unseasonal food. It’s not just the daily hiking; it’s also the cold sleeping quarters, suboptimal bathroom facilities and thinking about eating dahl bhat for the multiple times on this trek that make Everest difficult.

4. Keeping Motivation and Spirits Up

In a few days, the routine of the trail sets in: wake, walk, lunch, lodge, sleep. For children, that repetition can be very challenging, they may grow bored, restless, or impatient. We really had to work on making the hike fun, with games and milestones (“we made it to this viewpoint”) and copious encouragement. Mental challenges may arise like children can be scared, nervous, or ready to quit.

We also needed to reset our expectations. On the days when we could hang on to that, it was easier to make do with shorter distances and more flexible plans.

5. Logistics, Gear and Safety with Children

We were traveling with kids on the hike, so we had extra things to consider, like making sure that the children had good boots and warm clothes, gloves, hats, and a suitable backpack. We had to check on them more frequently: how were they sleeping, how did their mornings feel, and were they drinking enough water? It's better to pick shorter walking days and plan for more breaks if you have children. 

Safety was paramount: We would need to be ready to cancel the schedule if a child wasn’t doing well. We also had to select a trekking operator and guides who knew how to work with kids in terms of moving at the right pace, dealing responsibly with health matters.

6. Weather, Cold, and Unexpected Surprises

In the mountains high above you, conditions can change fast. The nights are cold, the winds blow strong, and the sky may change.. The children suffered much more from the cold than we did. We needed to carry additional layers, warm sleeping bags, and prepare ourselves for slower and grueling days. Long trekking hour, cold weather and basic tea houses, boredom or low motivation are all factors when it comes to trekking with kids.

Surprises were also challenges we hadn’t expected, an unexpected hike in elevation, for example, or a rainstorm that came out of nowhere and stretched into the night long enough to prolong their time in this kind of misery less so than we did.

Handling Emergencies While Trekking With Children and Family 

Having guides in a moment of emergency in the high altitude made a huge difference. As soon as our guide noticed one of the children wasn't feeling well, he stopped the walk to assess the situation. He showed up with a universally prepared first aid kit, and we could quickly deliver a basic treatment and prevent the condition from deteriorating. Also, part of the trekking company referenced in the insurance included a helicopter evacuation, which put our minds at ease knowing there was a backup plan if we needed it and things escalated.

Since we were at a high altitude, our guide advised us to go down a few hundred meters if altitude sickness symptoms emerged. We confirmed the insurance we bought would allow for high-altitude rescue and evacuation.

He spoke to the porters in a very clear manner and assisted us in modifying the itinerary for the next day, reducing distance and time trekking and increasing the time taken for rest. This flexibility and willingness to adapt the itinerary turned an episode of potential crisis into an manageable one.

How We Prepared Physically for the Trek as a Family?

We began our training early on so we could get used to a good amount of endurance. Every weekend, we found a local trail and went hiking with the kids while we gradually increased the distance and carried small day‑packs so the kids could get used to carrying the weight.

We added stair climbs and hill walks so we could strengthen our legs and lungs for the daily ups and downs of the trail. As the date of the trek got closer, we did a longer hike that included a little more elevation gain, so we could test how everyone felt and recover the next day.

It was important that we broke in our boots; the kids wore theirs during the hikes so we could help them make sure they fit well and wouldn’t cause blisters (which can be especially bad at high altitude).

We even added strength work into the mix for the adults so they could assist with the younger ones (if need be), and we made sure to add rest days for the kids so we didn’t push them too hard beforehand.

Choosing the Right Trekking Agency and Guide for Family Safety

We selected an agency that specifically stated "family-friendly treks" and had guides who had experience with kids.

This was critically important: a child may walk more slowly, they may need more breaks, and they don't always alert you when they are not feeling well. The agency we chose, Mountain Rock Treks, had managed to get families, even children ages 8 and 12  all the way to Everest Base Camp.

Our guide had first-aid training, spoke English, and knew exactly how to firm up the pace and seamlessly pull together a gradual itinerary designed for families. This gave us massive peace of mind because once you are at altitude, emergencies happen faster, and having someone who knows when to stop, when to descend, and ultimately to read a kid is priceless.

The agency also arranged porters, so our kids didn't have to carry as much weight, and this meant the kids could conserve energy and just think about the walk.

With that support in place, the right agency, the right guide, the right support - we felt safer and less stressed. It made all the difference to know there was a guide who had guided families on high-altitude treks.

Planning the Trek’s Duration: Ideal Pace for Kids

Instead of making the fastest itinerary possible, we built in additional days and rest. (Many sources suggest a slower progression, fewer hours of walking each day, and extra acclimatization days when children are involved).

Our guide informed us that a person’s chance of dealing with altitude issues increases when they ascend more than 500 m a day above approximately 2,700 m.

We built in shorter walking days (for example, 3–4 hours of walking instead of 6), breaks, and a buffer day, just in case someone was unwell.

This created space in our schedule for the children and kept an upbeat feeling that didn’t feel like a slog.  

We accepted that "slower" is "safer and happier" when engaging in trekking with young people.

The Importance of Consulting a Pediatrician Before Trekking with Kids

Before our departure, we consulted with a physician, and we received information about vaccination, altitude preparedness, and how the child might react to extended hiking and cool evenings.

The doctor examined each child’s basic health, reviewed symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, upset stomach (nausea), and fatigue), and emphasized how children may present differently.

We discussed if there was an insurance policy that included evacuation from high altitude, and what to do if a child doesn't appear to be acting normally descent is the best remedy. 

Preparing a Child Mentally for High‑Altitude Adventure

Getting the kids ready with their minds was equally relevant as the physical part. We discussed plainly what the hike may look like and feel like in terms of long walking times, cold nights, simple eating, reduced screen time, and much nature.  

We used a simple countdown chart with pictograms of the trail, engaging their involvement to help pack up the gear, and practiced some "mountain games" fun procedurally to demonstrate their own experiences. We also added little story goals along the way: "today we get to this village," "let's find a yak," "let's count the prayer-flags."  

Nights before the trek, we shared stories about successful young trekkers, watched pictures of the Himalayas, and talked about simple safety on the mountain using kid-friendly language. Ultimately, they will be really happy to have some skills in their minds and excitement to push through the sticky times on the trail, when cold or tired.

What To Pack When Trekking to Everest Base Camp With Kids?

What We Packed?

We made sure each kid had the right hiking boots (broken in before the trek), warm layers (thermals, fleece jacket, and down outer jacket), waterproof shells, a hat, gloves, and sun protection. 

Each of the kids carried compact backpacks that had snacks, water, a headlamp, and a small toy or journal to occupy their minds on the trek. 

Each adult had a duffel bag for the porter and a day-pack that had snacks, spare batteries, a basic first-aid kit, and extra water. The adult packs had rain covers, extra socks, hygiene items, and, just in case, familiar snacks for the kids' motivation. 

As one guide for family treks suggests: "Children's packs should be lightweight and they should wear layers, so they can add or subtract layers as the weather and altitude change."

What We Left Out (and Later Regretted)?

Looking back, we did forget a number of useful items. For instance, we didn't pack enough spare dry bottoms for the kids when their pants were wet or muddy, and we realized, too late, that we should have packed extra warm hats and gloves for our younger one (because it turns out she was colder than we expected). 

We also didn't realize how much weight, when it all added up, just small comforts (like a child's favorite small blanket or toy) would play a role in wishing we had just a little bit extra.

Although many of the gear items could have been rented either in Kathmandu or on the trek, the quality and fit when in some cases (e.g., children's clothing), isn't ideal.

Although one item's gear packing list states leaving "nice-to-have” options (blankets, toys, comfort items don't make or break a trip), leaving essential items to its success (e.g.,  warm base layers, hats, gloves, jackets) can. 

What We Realised Later?

By the time we reached the halfway point of the hike, we learned that less is often more - lighter bags meant happier children and fewer complaints.  

We also learned a lot about layering clothing - the kids were comfortable when hiking during warm daytime temperatures, but when the altitude increased and the cold nights set in, a good jacket and insulated gloves vastly improved morale.  

We also learned that a kid needed more small breaks, snacks, and distractions than we thought, so it was good that we had packed a few fun items, a journal, and a few games.  

And we were also very appreciative of the guide and porter support because having someone carry even just some of the heavier stuff meant the kids' bags were manageable, particularly as fatigue was starting to set in on the last days.

Altitude Sickness Management With Mount Everest Hike With Children

When we hiked to Everest Base Camp as a family, a primary worry was altitude sickness. 

From the outset, all of our experienced older kids struggled to catch their breath, became tired sooner than they usually would, and one got a mild headache after a long climb of over 3,000 m.

The guides told us children were not in a higher risk category for altitude sickness, but they might be less articulate in telling us about how they were feeling.

We all adjusted what we were doing by going slower, planning more rest days, drinking more regularly, and generally following the advice of “climb high, sleep low.” 

The little ones had more breaks and more snacks. We monitored them closely, watching for dizziness, nausea, fatigue, etc. We could also always descend if needed. All you need to do is let the guides know, and they can decide with you. Our guide, who was trusted as an expert, was watching the kids and knew when he needed to stop.

In the end, we made the correct choice, everyone stayed healthy and safe, and we had a positive trekking experience.

Altitude Management Schedule We followed While Hiking With Kids

Days 1-3 (Arrival and First Ascent) 

Arrive in Lukla (approx. 2800 m) and spend the first night here to help everyone settle in. Then, you will walk to the next village (approx. 2900-3000 m) on Day 2. Day 3 will be to around 3400 m, scheduling a low walking day with brief breaks in between. Reassess energy levels to encourage adequate hydration.

Days 4 (Acclimatization Day) 

Once you arrive at the village (for example, Namche Bazaar) at around 3400 m, rest is scheduled as you "walk high and sleep lower." You will stroll high to around 3800 m and return to sleep lower. This will allow for adequate acclimatization remember to remind the children to take a lot of breaks, snack, and for parents, monitor for headaches, nausea, and tiredness.

Days 5-7 Subsequent Higher Ascent 

Once again, use a gradual ascent. Day 5 will be at around 3900 m, Day 6 will be at around 4400 m to take a break, another as before, with a rest day, and Day 7 will be at around 4900 m for the night (or like altitude). Each day, pay attention to the time walking, which should always be shorter than the previous day, with many breaks and a more leisurely pace. Keep encouraging the children to ask how they feel throughout the days. 

Day 8 (Acclimatization / Buffer Day)

Take a rest or light activity day at  4900 m village (Dingboche). This is very important with kids; give them a chance to acclimatize before going over 5000 m. Kindly adjust the load or time walking down at any sign of altitude stress.

Days 9-10 (Final Push to Base Camp)

Day 9 move to 5300 m (Gorakshep), keep it very short and take many breaks along the way. On Day 10, there is an early morning hike to Base Camp (5364m), return to Gorakshep for sleeping or descending back to ~4900 m. Move slow, often drink, and use breaks for eating and/or resting.

Lukla Flight Experience: Was It Frightening for Kids?

When we flew to Lukla, at the Tenzing‑Hillary Airport, it was one of the highlights of our trip, especially since we were trekking with kids. The small runway high in the Himalayas is supposed to be one of the trickier landings in the world. 

While many dread the flight, it turned out to be thrilling, rather than terrifying, for the kids. They were mesmerized by the mountains below, the sound of a small plane, and the fact that the runway appeared to go up the mountain. We did our best to keep things calm by discussing what we should expect beforehand: a short flight, a small plane, awesome views, and a mountain environment.

Managing The Costs During EBC Hike

Package Booking and Finding a Good Deal

Our choice was to book through Mountain Rock Treks, which is called "Everest Base Camp Trek and Return by Helicopter". The price was US$2,850 per person according to their website at the time of booking for the 10-day program.  

As regular trekkers and families (kids included) willing to book ahead of time, we were able to hammer out a small discount and mutual agreement for our children. While the price is still high, the includes like (flight to Lukla, permits, guides, porters, accommodation and meals on trek, helicopter return) provided made this a great deal.

Budgeted Extras and Expense Tracking

While the main package included most of what we needed, we worked in an additional budget for child-specific items (boots, layers of clothing, gloves, hats), travel insurance for high-altitude and helicopter evacuation, and tips for guides/porters.

We also left a buffer for one-off costs: hot showers at higher lodges, extra water and snacks (the costs increased with altitude), and little treats for the kids. According to the provider's budget guide, food and water on a daily basis are as much as USD 30-100 per day per person in the upper areas.

Experience While Trekking With Kids and Cost Control

We found managing the budget with kids less difficult than expected.

Locking in our primary package felt great. With the kids, we were slower, and that turned out to be a benefit, as it helped us avoid paying for an emergency situations.

We also put an importance on shared gear for the kids , chose local treats instead of just imported versions as snacks, and carried refillable water bottles to avoid bottled water prices at altitude. 

At each lodge, we asked about what was free with meals, and what would be more (i.e., hot showers, charging electronics, etc). Through that awareness, we were able to stay on budget and not have to limit the kids in full adventure mode.

Teahouse Experience During the Route

We previously spent the nights in teahouses along the path to Everest Base Camp, and at each of those locations, we experienced differing levels of comfort, simplicity of design, and realities of life at altitude. 

The rooms were composed of foam mattresses, basic pillows, and blankets. Yet again, the higher we went, the rooms were considerably colder, and a good sleeping bag became necessary equipment. 

Sharing bath facilities were often squat toilets, and hot shower facilities were available for purchase (around US$4 or so). 

The higher we went, the fewer facilities were available. There was not much available water, heating was supplied only in the dining spaces, and the sleeping rooms were mostly not insulated and quite cold in the nighttime. 

Through all of this, though in the cold teahouse with basic amenities, we did not feel any loss as the dining halls of teahouses became the warm and social area for our family. 

After an ascending day outside, it was wonderful to become part of a familiar family dynamic in gathering together after dinner: sharing meals, talking about our stories, and warming ourselves together.

Teahouses in Lukla, Phakding, and Namche were invaluable for our family. They gave our kids a chance to recalibrate, meet other kids, and recover their energy.  As we climbed higher, we also adapted our pace and gear, especially for the younger kids.

By Lobuche and Gorak Shep, the comfort level declined, but we lived with simplicity. Our focus switched from comfort to just being together, enjoying the view, and all doing our best to stay safe, for better or worse. The all-important sense of community, connection, and support in teahouses was incredible on the trek.

What We and Our Children Ate During the EBC Hike?

What We Ate?

On the trek to Everest Base Camp, we stuck mainly with hearty, energy-focused meals each day to help with the demands of walking at high altitude. For breakfast each morning, we had porridge, Tibetan bread, eggs, toast, and jam. They were all simply prepared, warm, and filling; a nice way to start each day. 

Lunch and dinner always featured the local meal Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry), which kept us fueled throughout the day and provided a good amount of the needed energy.

From time to time, we had momos (dumplings) and noodle soups (thukpa), and even once in a while, we dined on pasta or pizza lower down in the villages, where there were ingredients to cook with.

Also, the hot drinks, ginger-lemon-honey tea, masala tea, and butter tea became a big part of our daily intake to help warm and hydrate us through the daily cold. The higher we climbed, the simpler the menus would be. The more we would rely on staples, versus variety.

What the Children Ate?

When planning meals for our children (aged 17, 15, 13, and 8), we made many of the same choices as we did for the adults, but adjusted for their tastes and needs. Breakfast meals consisted of slightly more familiar options of pancakes or jam on toast or cereal when it was available, and oats when it was not. 

• Snack breaks, we factored for somewhat more often: chocolate bars, trail mix, fruit snacks (when we could find them), or dried fruit helped keep their energy up between longer walks. 
• At lunch and supper, we as a family  shared some of the core meals, such as dal bhat and noodle soups, but we also ensured that the youngest, especially, had options she was comfortable with (plain rice + curry, so vegetable pasta) when the Nepali dishes became too unfamiliar. In the villages at lower altitudes, there were also pizza or grilled-cheese sandwich options, which the teens liked. 
• With drinks, the children tended to prefer hot chocolate or milk tea, instead of the heavier butter-tea flavour. Hydration was very important: we encouraged each child to drink frequently, whilst also trying to encourage water, teas, or soups, as high altitude increases fluid loss.