MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Switzerland

Season-Specific Clothing

A layering strategy works best for Grindelwald's varied climate.

Layering Essentials

Activity-Specific Attire

Tailor your clothing to your planned adventures.

Gear for Activities

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and strong grip for varied terrain.

Useful for rocky, muddy, or snowy paths.

Casual Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers for village and light walks.

Ideal for urban exploration.

Winter Boots

Insulated, Waterproof boots with good grip for snow and ice.

Stability and warmth in cold conditions.

Essential Documents

Useful Travel Papers

Ensure you have all necessary documentation for smooth entry and stay.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Original passport, valid for Schengen. Printed/digital copies separate.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Policy number and emergency contact numbers. Both printed and digital copies.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): National license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Record of essential vaccinations, doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, train tickets, accommodation, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Family/friends back home, local emergency numbers.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable): ISIC card or senior citizen cards.
  • Vehicle documentation: Car registration and insurance if driving your own vehicle.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are powered and connected throughout your trip.

Essentials

  • Power Adapter: Switzerland uses 230 V, Type J (three-round pin). Bring a specific Swiss Type J power adapter.
  • Mobile Phone: Most modern smartphones are compatible. Purchase local SIM cards or use eSIMs upon arrival.
  • Portable Chargers: A Portable power bank with at least 10,000 mAh capacity helps keep devices charged.

Photography & Digital Tools

Capture stunning alpine scenery and navigate with ease.

Recommended Gear & Apps

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox for backing up photos and copies of important documents.

External Storage

Consider an External hard drive or large SD cards for camera backups during your trip.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure internet access, such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-prepared health kit addresses minor issues and supports your well-being.

Kit Contents

  • First Aid Kit: Blister plasters (Compeed), pain relievers (Ibuprofen), antiseptic wipes, bandages. A Compact kit streamlines packing.
  • Prescription Medications: Carry in original packaging with doctor's note; sufficient supply plus extra days.
  • Over-the-Counter: Anti-diarrhea, antihistamines, cold/flu remedies, Electrolyte tablets.

Sun & Insect Protection

Protect yourself from the elements.

Protection Essentials

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Remedies

  • Drink plenty of water to counteract the dry air at altitude.
  • Ascend gradually, taking your time to adjust to higher elevations.
  • Mild pain relievers alleviate headaches associated with altitude sickness.

Motion Sickness Remedies

  • Bring relevant medication if you are prone to motion sickness for train, bus, or cable car rides.
  • Consider motion sickness patches for longer journeys.
  • Ginger candy or supplements may help with nausea.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Skiing/Snowboarding Gear

Essential items for hitting the slopes.

  • Skis/board and boots (rentable in Grindelwald).
  • Helmet and goggles.
  • Specific ski jacket and pants.
  • Warm, waterproof gloves or mittens.

Specialty Items

Items for capturing and enjoying your alpine experience.

  • A GoPro or other action camera for thrilling activities.
  • Binoculars for spotting wildlife or distant peaks.
  • A Tripod for stable landscape photography.
  • E-reader or book for downtime.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Recommended to Bring

  • Broken-in hiking boots: Renting new boots often leads to discomfort.
  • Hiking poles: If you prefer your own for comfort.
  • Daypack & Water Bottle: Personal items for daily use.
  • Prescription Medications: Always bring these from home.

Recommended to Rent

  • Ski/Snowboard Equipment: Widely available for rent in Grindelwald, saving baggage fees.
  • Climbing Gear: Via ferrata sets and specialized climbing gear from local shops or guides.
  • Heavy Winter Clothing: If you do not own specific insulated ski wear, rental is an option.
  • E-Bikes: For exploring the valley floor, often available for rent.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small items that elevate your comfort and safety.

Essentials

Sustainable Travel Items

Reduce your environmental footprint during your journey.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Region-Specific Essentials

Quality Camera

For capturing the stunning mountain scenery.

Binoculars

For spotting wildlife (chamois, ibex, marmots) or distant mountaineers.

Offline Maps

Download local area maps for offline use on your phone.

Extra Batteries

Cold weather drains batteries faster, especially for cameras.

Items Difficult to Find Locally

Personal Care & Medication

  • Prescription medications are best sourced from home.
  • Specific brands of toiletries or personal items you rely on might be difficult to find or more expensive.
  • Specialized hiking or skiing gear can be expensive to purchase on the spot.

Specialized Gear

  • Well broken-in hiking boots are always preferred for comfort.
  • A universal power adapter covers multiple countries if your trip extends beyond Switzerland.
  • Consider a power bank for devices when outlets are not accessible.

Equipping Yourself for Grindelwald's Landscape

Packing for Grindelwald means preparing for a dynamic environment where weather changes quickly. The layering system is more than just a suggestion; it is an action that brings comfort and safety.

Good quality, broken-in hiking boots are perhaps the single most important item for summer visitors, giving stability and comfort on varied trails. In winter, insulated, waterproof boots are just as for navigating snowy and icy conditions.