Negeri Di Bawah Bayu, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (Preparation)

Planning started 8 months prior to the scheduled climb. We had to plan how to spend 1 week in Kota Kinabalu and Mt. Kinabalu different groups coming together, the 4 who are climbing and the 2 who are staying in town. 

For those only interested in the climb, this website is pretty useful - http://www.mount-kinabalu-borneo.com/

Anyway, this is a guide on planning my overall trip (6d5n) and the climb itself.  

Planning

1. 8 months before the climb, make a reservation with Sutera Sanctuary Lodges for your accommodation at Park HQ, Laban Rata, guides, insurance and other things.

2. Book your flight ticket in advance for better rates.

3. Start exercising, both upper and lower body strength. Climb stairs, lift some weights, run around, climb a few neighboring hills. Trust me, you will need it.

4. Plan your gear. Winter wear, number of clothing, etc. The key is travel light but not at the expense of hypothermia.

What To Bring?Wardrobe for Laban Rata to peak

1. Outer shell jacket (like Columbia)
2. Thermal wear
3. Gloves (waterproof preferable)
4. Min 2 ponchos! (very important, it will rain!)
5. Walking stick (use on the way down)
6. Beanie for your head
7. 3 pairs of socks to keep warm and to wear
8. Underwear/ Sports bra
9. 2 sets of dry quick clothes
10. Hiking slippers
11. Headlamps (very important for Day 2 of the climb)
12. Thermos (to drink hot coffee near the top)
13. Heat packs (warmers for the cold nights)
14. Good hiking shoes. Sneakers/cross trainers are insufficient!
15. Towel
16. Toiletries (especially moisturizer)
17. Lip balm
18. Knee guard(s)
19. Energy bars/ electrolyte water
20. Plain water
21. Camera (again, very very important)
22. Money