So, you have made plans to climb Mount Kinabalu. You’ve booked your climb, trained for it and shopped for your trekking gear. Now, it’s time to get your food supply!

An idea of the food you should be getting for an enjoyable climb. Image courtesy of Gypsyshack.com

Food is an essential contributor in any physical activity. Just like in any workout, your choice of food can either make or break your climb. Check out these tips to keep you properly fueled and energized throughout your climbing expedition:

  1. The night before the climb, eat a nutrient-rich, carb-heavy dinner consisting of whole grains, beans, and fruits to store glycogen—your fuel source for climbing. In short, carbo-load before the climb like you would a night before a marathon.

    Pasta is always a good choice when carbo-loading. Opt for wholemeal pasta that will keep you full and fueled for longer!

  2. In the morning before your climb, eat easy-to-digest carbs, like oatmeal, fruit, pancakes, or yogurt, and make sure you get enough liquid on board, including coffee for some adrenaline fix.
  3. On the climb, plan to eat during every hour of activity, especially carb-rich foods, which get absorbed directly into the bloodstream to help keep muscles moving.
  4. Pack easy-to-eat snacks so they’re accessible (i.e., in a chest or hand-warmer pocket). By easy-to-eat, we mean fast-open packaging, tastes you enjoy, and food that you can munch on even while you’re moving.
  5. Pack what you know you like; this isn’t the best time to try anything new.
  6. Don’t skimp on the calories. You’ll be burning a ton, so pack enough to replenish those calories burned.
  7. Here are some recommended snacks to fuel your climb:

    Always have some fruits handy during your trekking trip. You can’t go wrong with the potassium-packed banana, which can help ward off muscle cramps mid-hike
  • Water
  • Chocolate bars
  • Dried fruit
  • Banana
  • Energy or granola bars
  • Caffeinated gel packets
  • Fruit juice
  • Unsalted nuts, like cashews and almonds
  1. On the other hand, here are some foods and beverages that you should avoid:


It’s best to avoid junk food like chips and soda when trekking. Aim for nutrient-rich calories from whole foods instead

You’ll need a clear mind for a heavy trekking trip up Mount Kinabalu. Save the drinks for the celebration after you’ve descended from the mountain

  • Spicy food (if you’re not used to spicy food)
  • Instant noodles
  • Salty chips and crackers
  • Alcoholic beverages

We trust that you have all necessary info needed to make a grocery list; it’s time to go food shopping before your climb. Good luck and happy trekking!