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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Central Switzerland And Berner Oberland, Switzerland

Layering for All Seasons

Lucerne's weather shifts, especially between seasons and altitudes. Layering clothes works well for any time of year. Pack light, breathable layers for warmer days, and include warmer layers for cooler evenings or higher altitudes.

Season-Specific Attire

  • Spring/Autumn: Medium jacket, sweaters or fleeces, Long-sleeved shirts, t-shirts, waterproof/windproof outer layer.
  • Summer: T-shirts, shorts, light trousers or skirts. Light jacket or fleece for evenings, waterproof layer for thunderstorms.
  • Winter: Warm, Waterproof winter coat, thermal layers, warm trousers, Gloves, Scarf, hat.

Cultural & Activity Attire

Lucerne has a generally casual dress code. No specific modesty requirements exist for tourists. However, respectful attire for visiting churches is appreciated, usually meaning shoulders covered.

Specific Attire Needs

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city's cobblestone streets and pedestrian areas. You will walk a lot.

Hiking Boots

Waterproof hiking boots or shoes are recommended for mountain excursions, especially on wet, muddy, or snowy trails, providing good grip and support.

Casual Shoes

Bring sandals or lighter shoes for warmer summer evenings or comfortable indoor wear.

Essential Documents

Documents for Travel

Keep your important documents organized and secure to avoid delays and problems during your trip.

  • Passport and visa documentation (if applicable), with sufficient validity.
  • Travel insurance policy information (printed and digital copies).
  • International driving permit (IDP) and national driving license, if you plan to drive.
  • Vaccination records or other health documentation, if specific situations require.
  • Printed and digital copies of all reservations for flights, accommodation, and tours.
  • Emergency contact information (local contacts and contacts back home).
  • Student, senior, or press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Credit and debit cards, plus some local currency (Swiss Francs).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right technology items for Switzerland.

Essential Tech Gear

Cameras & Apps

Capture Lucerne's beauty and navigate with ease using these tools.

Photography & Navigation

Data & Security

Mobile Phone Compatibility

Switzerland uses a GSM network, compatible with most international phones. Check your provider for roaming plans or consider a local SIM/eSIM.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure internet access on public Wi-Fi. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are popular choices for travelers.

Device Security

Keep devices updated with security patches. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication where available.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Prepare a small kit for common health needs and personal comfort during your trip.

Your Health Kit

  • Compact travel first aid kit with Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment, and Anti-diarrhea medication.
  • Prescription medications: Carry enough, plus extras. Include a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note. Keep medications in original packaging.
  • Over-the-counter medications: Remedies for colds, allergies, or stomach upset.

Protection & Hygiene

Safeguard yourself from environmental factors and maintain personal hygiene on the go.

Outdoor and Personal Care

Addressing Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Concerns

  • If planning trips to high-altitude mountains like Jungfraujoch, be aware of symptoms like headache and nausea.
  • Ascend slowly, allowing your body to adjust.
  • Stay well-hydrated to mitigate effects. Discuss medical options with your doctor.

Motion Sickness

  • Consider bringing medication if you experience motion sickness on winding mountain roads or boat trips.
  • Over-the-counter remedies are available.
  • Fresh air and focusing on the horizon may help.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For daily excursions on trails around Lucerne and nearby mountains.

  • Daypack (20-30L capacity).
  • Trekking poles for stability.
  • Durable hiking boots (essential).
  • Layered clothing system.

Snow Sports Gear

If you plan winter activities at nearby resorts like Engelberg or Melchsee-Frutt.

  • Ski or snowboard gear (often rented at resorts).
  • Your own layers, Helmet, goggles, and Gloves.
  • Warm, waterproof outer shells.
  • Thermal base layers.

Specialty Items

Items that enhance your specific experiences.

  • Binoculars for mountain views or wildlife spotting.
  • A small, lightweight umbrella for sudden rain showers.
  • A universal travel adapter.
  • Headlamp for early morning or late evening walks.

Equipment: Rent vs. Bring

Consider Renting

  • Skiing or snowboarding equipment due to high transport costs.
  • Large or heavy items that add significant luggage weight.
  • Specialized gear you use infrequently.
  • Bicycles for city exploration if you do not own a specialized one.

Consider Bringing

  • Your own comfortable hiking boots; broken-in boots prevent blisters.
  • Personal clothing layers, as these are adaptable.
  • Small electronics like power banks and adapters.
  • Essential medications and a small first aid kit.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These small items contribute to a more comfortable and secure trip.

Travel Essentials

Eco-Friendly & Personal Items

Pack items that align with sustainable travel or are hard to find locally.

Mindful Packing

  • Consider refillable toiletries to reduce plastic waste.
  • A reusable coffee cup for beverages on the go.
  • Travel utensils for takeaway meals to minimize single-use plastics.
  • Specific brands of toiletries or specialized dietary snacks if you rely on them, as they might be difficult or expensive to purchase locally.

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Filter

For hiking, consider a LifeStraw to purify water from streams.

Recyclable Bags

Carry foldable bags for shopping, reducing plastic consumption.

Solid Toiletries

Shampoo bars and solid soap minimize liquid waste and travel better.

Rechargeable Batteries

For cameras and other devices to reduce disposable battery waste.

Destination-Specific Items

For Mountain Excursions

  • Light scarf or neck gaiter for wind and sun protection at altitude.
  • Printed or offline maps of hiking trails, complementing digital ones.
  • Snacks for energy, like Swiss chocolate or trail mix.

For City & Lake Activities

  • Comfortable city shoes for extensive walking on cobblestones.
  • Swimsuit if visiting the lakeside beaches or indoor pools.
  • A small notebook and pen for jotting down travel notes or sketches.

Packing Smart

Pack a versatile scarf. It adds warmth, provides sun protection, and may assist with cultural modesty when visiting churches or sacred sites.

Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize different clothing categories.