Sunny autumn days are invitations for hiking in the glorious mountains of Switzerland. However despite the marked trails and inviting hills it makes good sense to be prepared. Here is a list of essentials for a safe and pleasant hike.
Equipment:
The first thing you are going to need a good hiking boots. Whether you splurge on hiking boots or go for good trainers be sure to have shoes that fit and that keep your ankle stable. Hobbling back to base on a twisted ankle is not fun.
Be sure to wear layers of clothes. It might start off as a sunny day, but the wind might pick up or rain could set in, you never know; so layer your clothes so as not to freeze or boil.
Lather the sun cream on, yeap just because you’re not by the seaside or on snow doesn’t mean that the sun isn’t super fierce.
Wear sunglasses and a hat.
Trekking poles can come in handy but not everyone likes using them so if possible borrow some before investing in a pair.
Then you are going to need a backpack, and fill it with plenty of food and water, but it‘s a delicate balance plenty of sustainance and too heavy a backpack.
You will also need a first aid kit, mosquito/tick repellent, and a pen knife.
Some kind of GPS is also essential, just bear in mind that you won‘t always get perfect reception for your phone.
Finally if you are planning on hiking a lot then we recommend you become a member of the REGA. This is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation that provides year round mountain rescues.
