Heading to the mountains and not sure what to pack? When it comes to packing for the mountains, the contents of your luggage will largely depend on the activities you have planned and whether you’re travelling in winter or summer. To make sure you don’t forget anything, I’ve put together a multi-purpose checklist of what to take to the mountains.
Planning and preparing for your mountain trip
Whether you’re travelling for skiing, mountain hikes or high-altitude trekking, there’s no avoiding the packing process. The essentials are a suitable bag (a hiking backpack is a practical choice), the right mountain gear and good functional clothing. Your packing list will, however, depend on the activities you choose, the number of days, the season and your own preferences.
What to pack for the mountains in winter
When you’re getting ready for a winter mountain trip, it’s important to think carefully about what to take with you, so you’re not caught short and you’re prepared for the ever-changing mountain conditions.
💡 You might also like: How to choose the right travel gear.
Clothing
In winter you simply can’t go to the mountains without proper layering. The foundation is functional base-layer underwear (such as nano boxers) that wicks away sweat and keeps your body dry. The second layer should be insulating – think a fleece or a jumper. As the top layer, go for a waterproof, windproof jacket with a membrane (e.g. Radical Gore-Tex). And don’t forget warm socks, a hat, gloves and a scarf or neck gaiter to protect you from the cold and wind.
So, on your mountain packing list, jot down:
- thermal clothing (check out the functional Craft Core Warm Baselayer set),
- underwear and socks (especially long ones, such as Warg Merino Ski),
- short- and long-sleeved tops,
- ski trousers and a jacket (for example the Trimm Marol jacket),
- waterproof trousers (for example Ortovox 3L Guardian Shell Pants),
- winter snow boots,
- a neck gaiter,
- a hat, gloves, a scarf and a balaclava to wear under your helmet.
The right footwear
Quality winter footwear is the foundation of comfortable movement in the mountains. Choose boots with good insulation, waterproofing and a sturdy sole that gives you stability even on slippery terrain. Waterproofing treatment matters too – it keeps your feet dry even when it’s snowing or raining. So pack a spray-on waterproofing treatment like Nikwax Nubuck Spray-on.
For the gents, I recommend the Revel IV MID Polar trekking boots, and for the ladies the Kamik Iceland snow boots.
💡 TIP: Our guide to the best trekking boots.
First aid kit
You can either buy a ready-made first aid kit (such as the Lifesystems Camping Kit) or remember to pack the following:
- any medication you take,
- plasters,
- bandages,
- medicine for digestive problems,
- disinfectant,
- scissors,
- a multi-tool knife,
- a thermometer,
- painkillers and fever medication,
- antihistamines,
- hand sanitiser gel.
It’s also worth packing frostbite cream, panthenol, sunscreen and a lip balm with UV protection.
Hand luggage
If you’re flying to the mountains, get your hand luggage ready and pack everything essential in it (in case your checked bags go missing, for instance). You’ll find the best cabin bags RIGHT HERE.
Pack it with:
- your documents, including your health insurance card (don’t forget travel insurance),
- your wallet,
- your boarding pass,
- personal medication,
- a water bottle,
- a small snack,
- basic toiletries,
- your phone, e-reader and laptop,
- a charger and a power bank,
- a change of clothes.
Ski equipment
If you’re planning to ski, definitely don’t forget your full ski kit. Skis, ski boots, poles, a helmet, goggles and a back protector (such as the Acepac Sas-Tec Sc-1/CB52) – those are the basics. Also remember sunglasses, ski gloves and thermal underwear to wear beneath your ski clothing, which keeps you warm even when you spend the whole day on the slopes. You can either hire your gear or bring your own if you have it.
Toiletries
Hygiene is essential when packing for the mountains. Pack:
- a toothbrush and toothpaste,
- shampoo and soap,
- deodorant,
- a towel (e.g. the quick-drying Zulu Comfort),
- moisturiser,
- sunscreen,
- a comb,
- laundry detergent (check out Nikwax Tech Wash),
- tissues,
- toilet paper.
Documents, money and other essentials
Always carry personal documents such as your ID card, driving licence or passport. Keep your money and bank cards safe, ideally in a waterproof pouch (such as the Ferrino Busta). And don’t forget your insurance policy if you’ve taken out travel insurance, along with the contact details for the local mountain rescue services.
A few extras that might come in handy
You might also find the following useful in the mountains:
- a travel coffee maker,
- a thermos flask,
- travel cookware,
- a head torch,
- a lighter,
- an avalanche transceiver (take a look here),
- a knife (the True Utility Seven).
💡 TIP: Read our article about travel coffee makers.
What to pack for the mountains in summer
If you’re planning a summer trip to the mountains, it’s important to bring gear that keeps you comfortable and safe. The foundation is lightweight, breathable clothing that wicks away sweat well – but don’t forget warmer layers too, because mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Clothing
In summer it’s important to dress in lightweight, breathable materials that wick away sweat and dry quickly. But layering is still essential – the base layer should be functional, the second layer light and insulating (such as the functional Zulu Ore hoodie), and the outer layer should protect you from rain and wind.
Also remember a hat to protect you from the sun. It’s a good idea to carry a spare T-shirt and socks too, so you can change after a demanding hike. And if you’re planning to cycle, don’t forget your cycling clothing (take a look here for a complete cycling kit).
As far as clothing goes, pack:
- hiking boots,
- underwear,
- short- and long-sleeved tops,
- sports leggings or shorts,
- waterproof trousers,
- a hoodie,
- a lightweight jacket,
- trekking poles (e.g. Leki Makalu FX Carbon AS trekking poles),
- swimwear,
- a hat.
The right footwear
If you plan to do some hiking in the mountains, you won’t get far without suitable hiking boots. Your footwear should be comfortable, breathable and, above all, have a sturdy sole that gives you stability even on uneven terrain.
A great choice is the lightweight Asolo Tahoe LTH GTX trekking boots or the high-cut Aku Alterra Lite Mid GTX.
Your boots should also be well broken in, so they don’t pinch or cause blisters during long walks. And don’t forget socks, ideally made from a functional material that helps prevent chafing and keeps your feet dry.
First aid kit
When it comes to your first aid kit, the contents won’t differ much from the winter version. I’d just add the following:
- products for treating insect bites,
- chafing cream,
- sunscreen,
- gel or cream for burns,
- a cooling gel,
- insect repellent.
Hand luggage
A smaller daypack comes in handy not just on the plane but also for short trips into the mountains. For both, backpacks of around 20–30 litres are ideal – plenty for day trips. I’d recommend the Thule Aion travel backpack.
Pack the basics in your backpack, such as a water bottle, a snack, sunscreen, a rain poncho, a first aid kit, documents, money and other essentials. The backpack should have padded straps for comfort even when worn for longer periods.
💡 TIP: What you can take on a plane
Gear for mountain hiking
For summer hiking, be sure to pack a map, a compass or a GPS device so you can find your way around the terrain easily. Telescopic trekking poles can help you stay stable and take the strain off your joints during tougher ascents or descents.
Also pack a rain poncho or a lightweight waterproof jacket. For longer hikes, don’t forget energy bars or trail food.
And depending on whether you’re doing day trips or camping overnight along the way, pack a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat and a tent too. I recommend the Ultralight 700 sleeping bag by Zulu, the inflatable Warg NeoLite Insulated sleeping mat and the two-person Warg Midi tent.
So, on your packing list for mountain hikes, write down:
- a hiking backpack,
- a navigation device,
- trekking poles,
- a water bottle or hydration bladder,
- trail food,
- a sleeping bag, sleeping mat and tent,
- a stove and travel cookware,
- a head torch.
💡 Read also: How to choose a sleeping bag
Toiletries
Pack the basic toiletries. The list stays the same as the one I described above.
At most, you might add wet wipes, antibacterial gel, high-factor sunscreen, a lip balm with UV protection and a quick-drying towel. In the mountains it’s also handy to carry a small pack of tissues or some toilet paper.
Documents, money and other essentials
For every mountain trip, take your documents, such as your ID card, a bank card and some cash. If you’re a student, a student ID card can come in handy too. If you’re heading abroad, also pack travel insurance and the contact details for the local mountain rescue services. Don’t forget your mobile phone, camera, chargers and a power bank either.
A few extras that might come in handy
For a summer mountain holiday, you might also find these useful:
- a travel coffee maker,
- a tarp shelter,
- laundry detergent,
- water filters,
- a washing line and pegs,
- a multi-tool knife.
💡 TIP: Gear for camping and tent trips
Frequently asked questions
What are the essentials for winter hikes?
For winter hikes don’t forget:
Snowshoes or crampons: For better movement in deep snow or on icy surfaces.
Headlamp: With spare batteries, especially if you’re planning a long hike.
Better clothing layering: Greater emphasis on insulation and protection against frost.
Avalanche kit: If you’re moving in avalanche areas – avalanche probe, beacon, shovel.
What should I bring on a mountain hike?
Here’s the translated HTML:
For a mountain hike, it’s important to bring:
Footwear: Quality trekking boots with good grip and ankle support.
Clothing: Layered clothing (thermal underwear, mid-layer, waterproof and windproof outer layer), hat, gloves, and scarf.
Backpack: A comfortable backpack with sufficient capacity for your needs (e.g., 20-30 liters for a day hike).
Food and water: Energy foods, snacks, plenty of water or a water filter/purifier.
Navigation aids: Maps, compass, or GPS device.
First aid: First aid kit, bandages, medication for common health issues.
Tools: Multi-tool knife, matches or lighter, emergency shelter (e.g., bivvy bag).
What to bring on a multi-day hike?
On a multi-day trek don’t forget:
Tent or bivvy bag: For overnight stays.
Stove and cookware: For preparing meals.
Food and water supplies: Including foods that store well.
Hygiene essentials: Toilet paper, hygiene wipes.
What are the safety rules in the mountains?
Check the weather: Follow the forecast and prepare for possible weather changes.
Let someone know: Tell your loved ones your route and expected return time.
Mind your fitness level: Adjust the difficulty of the hike to your physical condition.
Learn first aid: Basic skills can be very valuable in a crisis situation.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
