What to Pack for Your Ski Holiday in Switzerland

Packing for a ski holiday can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. Whether it’s your first time in the Swiss Alps or you’ve been hitting the slopes for years, there’s always that one small thing you forget. Usually something obvious and rather important, like a plug adaptor or your toothbrush.

So, to make sure you arrive fully prepared - and avoid a late dash to the nearest shop - here’s a quick checklist of the easy, and not so easy, to miss.

The Frequently Forgotten

Swiss plug adaptor

Probably the most common mistake made by anyone coming to Switzerland is bringing an EU plug adaptor. As it is, Switzerland uses a unique three-pin plug (type J) so you’ll need to make sure you have at least one Swiss specific adaptor with you.

Water bottle (and/or a hip flask)

Skiing is surprisingly thirsty work. A small, lightweight bottle that fits into your jacket or backpack is perfect for staying hydrated on the go. (Optional bonus: a hip flask for a little chairlift or après warm-up.)

Shoes with grip

It sounds simple, but icy pavements and packed snow can make even short walks treacherous. Leave the smooth-soled trainers at home and bring something sturdy with a good tread for wandering around the village or heading to après.

The Creature Comforts

A good camera

Whilst most phones have got a fantastic camera on them nowadays, the Swiss Alps are a photographer’s dream so if you have a ‘proper’ camera, or a GoPro/insta360, then bring it along!

Hand warmers

A small luxury that can make a big difference on frosty mornings. And for those that really suffer from the cold, heated gloves and boots are relatively commonplace now.

Sun cream, sunnies and lip balm

On the flip side, the Swiss Alps get plenty of sunshine, and even on cloudy days the glare off the snow is stronger than you might expect. Add in the dry mountain air and it’s a quick recipe for a burnt nose and chapped lips, so this is a trio you’ll be glad to have with you.

Skiwear Tips

Goggles with the right lenses

Conditions in the mountains can switch from flat light to blazing sunshine in a matter of minutes. If you can, go for goggles with interchangeable or hybrid lenses that work well across all light levels - your eyes (and legs at the end of the day) will thank you.

Thin, well-fitting ski socks

Warm but thin ski socks make all the difference. Thick, chunky ones might look and feel cosy, but by lunchtime you’ll be dealing with every skier’s nemesis - boot pain.

Layer up – don’t bulk up

With regrettably warmer winters in recent years, heavy insulated jackets are often overkill. You’re normally better off layering up with thermals, a fleece and a waterproof shell.

While we’re on the subject, at the top of any ski holiday packing list should be your ski gear! This basically boils down to a jacket, salopettes, gloves, helmet, buff, base layers and ski socks. If you don’t own any of that, or prefer to travel light, our partners at Cirkel Supply offer high-quality ski clothing and equipment rental delivered straight to your accommodation. It’s a great way to save luggage space (and money) without compromising on comfort or style. Check out their selection here.

With the right gear, you’ll spend more time enjoying Switzerland’s incredible slopes and less time hunting for forgotten bits. Pack smart, ski happy - and if you do forget something, don’t worry. There’s usually a shop, or a friendly OTP rep, nearby to help.