What to Pack for a Switzerland Adventure

The following packing list contains general recommendations for a Switzerland adventure. If you are currently booked on Wild Switzerland: Peaks, Lakes & Glaciers, please consult your pre-departure materials for the most up-to-date packing list for your trip. You will receive these pre-departure materials 60–90 days before your departure.

Simplify your packing—shop at Nat Hab’s online Gear Store for some of the key items recommended for your adventure. Look for this icon in the list below, then go to the Nat Hab Gear Store to start shopping.

CLOTHING

• 2 KN95 masks per person (included in your pre-departure package)
• Lightweight neck gaiter (included in your pre-departure package)
  —Useful for wearing over the KN95 masks to keep them clean and extend their use.
  —Also provides sun, wind and/or dust protection.
• Additional cloth face coverings
  —We recommend bringing a few more face coverings of your own.
• Lightweight, breathable, waterproof rain gear
  —Weather during the adventure can be highly unpredictable. You should bring extra layers with you every day so that you can stay warm while participating in our outdoor activities. Remember that in Switzerland, rain is ALWAYS a possibility!
  —You will need both a waterproof jacket with a hood and waterproof pants (GORE-TEX fabric or similar is highly recommended). It is extremely important that your rain gear be fully waterproof, not just water-repellent, as it can rain frequently and quite heavily in the areas we will be visiting. Plastic ponchos are not allowed as they will not provide sufficient protection from the elements.
• Waterproof hiking boots (with ankle support and broken in to prevent blisters)
• Warm hat and gloves 
• Warm fleece or jacket 
• Several pairs of socks made of wool or synthetic material.
  —Cotton socks are not recommended for hikes.
• 2-3 pairs of long pants (or nylon, zip-off pants)
• 2 pairs of shorts (you may not need extra shorts if you are bringing zip-off pants)
• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts 
• 2–3 short-sleeved T-shirts 
• 1–2 dressier outfits (optional)
  —You may feel more comfortable at dinners and walking around towns in slightly dressier clothing.
• Underwear
  —1 long-sleeve thermal layer (top) and one pair of thermal bottoms
  —In case the weather turns cold at higher elevations.
  —Wool or recycled synthetic materials are great options for your thermal layer.
• Sleepwear
• Extra pair of walking shoes. Tennis shoes are fine, or these could be casual shoes that you wear with any dressier clothing you choose to bring.
• Sun hat with brim (and strap so it won’t blow away) 
  
  

ADDITIONAL ITEMS

• Cash 
  —For discretionary gratuities (you may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation)
  —For personal spending (souvenirs or food and beverages not included in your trip fee)
• Binoculars
  —A good quality pair of binoculars will definitely enhance your wildlife-viewing experience, and you will get the most out of them if you practice using them at home and make a habit of having them with you regularly on the adventure. Waterproof binoculars work well but are not required.
• Water bottle
  —In our continuing effort to operate adventures with as little impact on the environment as possible, we will provide you with a reusable water bottle upon arrival.
• Water-resistant daypack (to carry camera gear and other equipment during outings) 
• Outlet adapter and/or power converter 
• Hairdryer (optional and available at all accommodations)
• Sunglasses with U.V. filter
• Headlamp or small flashlight (if you are sharing a room with another guest)
• Earplugs
• Toiletries in reusable bottles to minimize waste
  —Shampoo, soap and sometimes lotion are provided at all accommodations.
• Insect repellent & anti-itch ointment (optional)
  —Mosquitos are not a big concern on this trip, but you might want to bring repellent and ointment just in case.
• Sunscreen & lip balm (at least SPF30)
• Prescription medications & favorite remedies
  —For headaches, colds, upset stomach, skin irritations, etc.
  —If you are prone to motion sickness you may want to bring your favorite remedy for drives and boat activities.
• Wash cloth (optional, not typically provided at hotels in Switzerland)
• Prescription glasses/contact lenses
• Reusable waterproof bags
  —Bring several sizes. These are great for wet or dirty clothing and for protecting camera equipment. 
• Hiking poles (optional but highly recommended)
  —Many of our hikes take place in steep, uneven terrain, and poles can provide additional stability and assistance on inclines.
  —If you are bringing hiking poles, they must be able to fit in your check-in luggage, as you generally will not be allowed to carry them on the plane.