Packing for a Summer Trip to Switzerland
Switzerland is best known for its snowy mountain peaks and luxurious ski resorts, but it’s also a beautiful summer destination. The landscape allows for plenty of warm-weather activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting. There’s also plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy and delicious foods to try. So what should you pack for a summer trip to Switzerland? We’ve got you covered with this handy guide. Read on to discover what the country is like during summer and how to pack accordingly.
Summer Climate in Switzerland
The Swiss summer begins halfway through June and ends around mid-September. According to Switzerland Tourism, temperatures during this time average between 77—86°C. It can also get pretty humid, but this varies depending on altitude. Switzerland also receives rain during the summer. Since the landscape is dominated by towering peaks, some areas maintain cool conditions all year round. Zermatt, for example, one of the country’s largest ski resorts, sits at an elevation of 5,210 ft. In the summer, the temperatures here average between 68–77°F.
Summer Activities in Switzerland
Thanks to the mild temperatures, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors in Switzerland. There are many ways to do this, including walking, hiking, mountain biking, paddle boarding, and skydiving. If you head up into the mountains, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding as well. Switzerland also boasts an impressive train network that allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the countryside.
There’s also plenty to explore in the towns and cities, including ancient ruins, historic castles, thermal spas, zoos, and museums. During the summer, many festivals also take place. In July, the country hosts the two-week Montreux Jazz Festival, which is held on the shores of Lake Geneva. On August 1, Switzerland celebrates its National Day with community-led performances and parades. You can also join thousands of music lovers at the annual Gurtenfestival in Interlaken.
Packing for Your Summer Trip to Switzerland
Planning out a rough itinerary for your summer trip to Switzerland can help with packing. The truth is, everyone’s list will look different. It all depends on the area you’ll be visiting and the kind of activities you want to do. Still, there are some classic options that will have you covered in all situations. We’ve compiled them into a handy list below that you can use as a template for your trip. You can edit it however you see fit to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy yourself.
Clothes
The number and type of clothing items you need will depend on where you’re going, what you’re doing, and how long you’re staying. In general, summer temperatures in Switzerland are warm. It’s a good idea to take a couple of t-shirts, tanks, and short sleeve tops. You’ll also need some shorts or lightweight pants to wear with them.
Women’s skirts and dresses are also a great choice, as you can dress them up or down. Be sure to pack a sweater or hoodie, too, as it can get colder at night. If you’re heading up into the mountains, you may need a few more layers. It’s also a good idea to pack one or two dressier outfits for nights out.
During your downtime while traveling, it’s great to have a set of cozy clothes to relax in. We suggest taking two loungewear sets—one for chilling and one for sleeping.
Activewear
Everybody has their favorite workout clothes, whether it be running shorts and a tank, or leggings and a tee. Choose one or more sets to take with you on your trip. With so many outdoor activities on offer, you’ll need something comfy and breathable to explore in. Activewear also makes a great traveling outfit for the airport and any shorter trips you may make during your stay.
Swimwear
With so many lakes and pools to enjoy in Switzerland, it’s a good idea to pack swimwear and beach towels. Just be aware that in some spas and saunas, swimwear may not be permitted due to hygienic reasons. Don’t forget to take sunscreen, too, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
Shoes
When it comes to shoes, it’s best to go for versatile options to save on packing space. A pair of sneakers is great for walking and hiking, but you can rock them with casual outfits, too. Depending on your itinerary, you may want to pack a dressier pair of shoes for evening outings. A pair of leather brogues is a great alternative to heels as they’re sleek yet comfy. Finally, you’ll want a pair of flip flops or slides for any water activities. These can also be worn with your casual outfits on extra hot days.
Rain Jacket
Switzerland does experience rainfall in the summer months, so it’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket for your trip. Even if it doesn’t pour, you’ll have an extra lightweight layer on hand. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip; if it’s going to rain a lot, you may want to take a pair of rain boots as well.
Feel free to edit this list to suit your individual plans and itinerary. Depending on where you’re headed and how long you’re staying in Switzerland, packing lists will look different for everyone. Focus on versatile, breathable pieces that can be mixed and matched. It’s also important to take comfortable shoes. Throw in whatever else you may need and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience.