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What to Pack for St Moritz

What to Pack for St Moritz

St Moritz Graubunden, Switzerland Travel Guide

Winter Clothing December-March

This period requires serious cold-weather gear.

Layering System

Spring & Autumn April-May & Sep-Nov

These transitional periods require flexibility, focusing on warmth as temperatures drop in autumn.

Seasonal Transition

Footwear Recommendations

Winter

Waterproof, insulated Winter boots with excellent grip for snow and ice.

Ski boots for skiing.

Summer/Hiking

Sturdy, waterproof Hiking boots with ankle support for trails.

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for town.

General

Comfortable walking shoes are suitable year-round.

Good for strolling around town.

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Keeping documents organized and accessible for a stress-free trip. Have both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport & Visa: Valid passport, properly issued visa (if applicable). Photocopies and digital copies separate from original.
  • Travel Insurance: Physical copy of policy, policy number, 24/7 emergency contact. Digital copy on phone.
  • International Driving Permit: If renting a car and national license not in Swiss language or English.
  • Health Documentation: Vaccination records. Doctor's note for pre-existing conditions or prescription medications.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flights, accommodation, train tickets, pre-booked tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Local emergency services (112, 117, 144, 1414), embassy/consulate, insurance emergency line, family/friends.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student (ISIC), senior, or press IDs for potential discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Pack the right electronics and accessories.

Power Details

Photography & Power

St. Moritz has stunning photographic opportunities.

Gear and Backup

Recommended Apps

Navigation

Google Maps/Apple Maps. Komoot or AllTrails for hiking.

Public Transport

SBB Mobile (Swiss Federal Railways) app for schedules. Engadin Bus app for local routes.

Weather & Translation

MeteoSwiss (official Swiss weather). Google Translate (offline languages: German, Italian, French, Romansh).

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A well-stocked kit aids minor ailments.

Essential Contents

  • First Aid: First aid kit with Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), allergy medication, Anti-diarrheal, blister treatment.
  • Prescription Medications: Enough for trip, original containers. Doctor's note for controlled substances/large quantities.
  • OTC Medications: Cold/flu remedies, antacids, motion sickness pills.

Sun & Insect Protection

High-altitude and outdoor activities require specific protection.

Climate-Specific Items

  • Insect Repellent: Necessary in summer/autumn (ticks, mosquitoes). Products with DEET or picaridin.
  • Sun Protection: High SPF Sunscreen (30+). Apply frequently due to high altitude and reflective surfaces (Sun Protection).
  • Lip Balm with SPF: Protection against dry, high-altitude air and intense sun (Lip Balm with SPF).

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness

  • Mild symptoms upon arrival (headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness) possible at 1,822m.
  • Hydrate well. Avoid strenuous activity on first day.
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) if prone, consult doctor.

Motion Sickness

  • Winding mountain roads.
  • Over-the-counter remedies like Dramamine.
  • Consider if prone to car sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Skiing & Hiking Gear

Equipment for specific alpine activities.

  • Skiing/Snowboarding: Helmet, goggles, ski poles, ski/snowboard boots and skis/snowboard (if owned).
  • Hiking: Hiking poles for stability, Daypack for water/layers, and a Water bladder.
  • Ice Skating: Skates are rentable at rinks.
  • Mountaineering: Technical gear (crampons, ice axe) usually provided by certified guides for tours.

Water Activities

Gear for aquatic pursuits.

  • Swimming: A Swimsuit for lake or hotel pools/spas.
  • Water Sports: Specific gear for sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing (often rentable).
  • Safety: Personal flotation devices (PFDs) for water sports.
  • Sun Protection: Swim shirt, waterproof sunscreen.

Other Equipment

Items for enhanced experience.

  • Photography: Extra camera batteries (cold drains).
  • Wildlife Viewing: Binoculars for distant observations.
  • Event Viewing: Binoculars for events like White Turf.
  • Portable Charger: For devices when out.

Rent vs. Bring

Rent

  • Skis, snowboards, boots, helmets (convenient, cost-effective for short stays).
  • Ice skates (easily rented at rinks).
  • Bicycles, e-bikes (widely available for rent).
  • Often more economical than daily rentals for longer trips if you own gear.

Bring

  • Ski goggles (personal fit).
  • Ski gloves (Ski Gloves, personal fit, warmth).
  • Well-broken-in hiking boots (comfort).
  • Warm base layers (Thermal Base Layers, personal preference).

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

Small items enhance comfort and security.

Essentials

Region-Specific Essentials

Beyond general alpine gear, nothing specific is unique to St. Moritz.

Local Availability

  • Specialty medications or specific outdoor gear sizes might be difficult/expensive to find.
  • General electronics and personal care items available, but at Swiss prices.
  • Bring personal favorites or specialty items.
  • Local maps and guidebooks are generally available.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill with excellent tap water.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For groceries and souvenirs.

Reusable Utensils

For takeaway meals.

Portable Charger

Reduce power outlet use.

Destination-Specific Items

For Winter Events

  • Warmest attire for outdoor events like White Turf.
  • Ski goggles for snow glare protection.
  • Lip balm and moisturizer for dry air.

For Summer Hikes

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light but smartly. Lay out clothes and gear, then remove items that are not truly necessary. Consider mix-and-match outfits.

Use packing cubes to organize and compress clothing. Roll rather than fold to save space and reduce wrinkles.