Good packing is mostly about layers, not quantity. Mountain weather can swing from hot sun to freezing wind within an hour, and a heavy bag makes every climb harder. This list works for day walks, village stays and hut-to-hut trips from the Alps to the Himalaya. Adjust it for the season, your altitude and whether you carry your own bag or a porter does.
The layer system
Think of three layers that you add or remove:
- Base layer. A thin top and leggings in merino wool or a synthetic fabric that dries quickly. Avoid cotton, which stays damp and cold.
- Mid layer. A fleece or light insulated jacket for warmth when you stop.
- Outer layer. A waterproof, breathable jacket with a hood, and waterproof trousers if rain is likely. This layer also stops the wind, which cools you faster than low temperatures alone.
Add a warm hat, light gloves and a neck tube or scarf. A down or synthetic puffer jacket is worth its weight for evenings and rest stops at altitude.
Footwear
Comfort matters more than the brand. Choose boots or shoes with good grip and ankle support for rough trails, and break them in before you travel, because new boots cause blisters. Take two pairs of wool or technical socks for each day, and a pair of light shoes for the evening. If you will cross snow or ice, check whether you need crampons or microspikes, and hire them with a guide if needed.
Sun and heat
The sun is stronger at altitude, and snow and water reflect it. Carry sunglasses with good protection, a hat with a brim, and sun cream with a high factor, plus lip balm with sun protection. Cover your skin with light long sleeves on exposed days.
Carrying and drinking
- A daypack of 20 to 30 litres with a hip belt and a rain cover.
- A water bottle or bladder that holds at least one litre, and purification tablets or a filter if you drink from streams or taps.
- Snacks such as nuts, dried fruit and chocolate. You will want them when a meal is late.
First aid and health
A small kit with plasters and blister dressings, pain relief, rehydration salts, antiseptic wipes, bandages, tape and any personal medicines. Add a whistle and a head torch with spare batteries. If you are going above about 2,500 m, read about the signs of altitude sickness and talk to a doctor about your plans. Check which vaccinations your destination recommends.
Documents and money
- A passport with at least six months of validity, visas and permits.
- Printed or offline copies of bookings, insurance details and emergency numbers.
- Travel insurance that covers the activity and altitude you plan, including rescue and medical care.
- Cash in local currency, in small notes. Cash machines can be far apart and unreliable in the mountains.
Electronics
A phone with offline maps, a power bank, charging cables and a plug adaptor. Keep the phone warm, because cold drains batteries. A paper map and compass are useful backups if you know how to use them.
Sleeping
For huts and teahouses, bring a light sleeping bag liner. For cold nights or camping, a sleeping bag rated for the lowest temperature you expect. Earplugs help in dormitories.
What to leave behind
- Cotton jeans and hoodies for the trail.
- Multiple pairs of heavy shoes.
- Big towels (a small quick-dry one is enough).
- Valuables you would hate to lose.
A last check
Before you close the bag, weigh it. As a rule of thumb, a daypack should usually weigh no more than about a tenth to a seventh of your body weight, and a larger pack should be something you can carry comfortably for a full day. Everything you do not need is a favour to your knees.
Sources and further reading
Written by the LuxPines editorial team and last updated 25 October 2026. Conditions, prices and rules change, so confirm details with official sources before you travel. See how we work and our affiliate disclosure.
