Packing list – winter
Having the right equipment is crucial, especially in the winter and you should adjust it based on how long you plan to be away and how you plan to stay. A day trip or an extended tour? A mountain cabin or a tent? We guide you with our basic packing lists to keep the weight of your backpack down.
Packing list for winter excursion or extended tour
The foundation of your packing remains the same whether you’re on a day trip or a longer expedition. However, additional gear for overnight stays and changes of clothes are needed if you’ll be away for several days. During winter, it’s particularly important to dress in layers. Also, remember that you can easily get cold when you stop for breaks. Therefore, bring insulating clothing, such as a down jacket, when taking a break. On an extended tour, it’s crucial to have a good jacket that withstands both wind and moisture.
If you’re going on a multi-day trip in the snow, you can pull your gear on a sled to lighten the load on your back. In the mountain regions, you can avoid carrying food if you check in advance which of the STF mountain cabins have shops. Don’t forget to read up on mountain safety before you set off.
Packing for children in the winter time
Children need roughly the same equipment as adults, but often with a few more changes of clothes. Waterproof outerwear is, of course, essential on the packing list. Winter also demands proper footwear, extra mittens, and socks for the kids. It’s wise to dress them in merino wool or synthetic materials closest to the skin. Wool is the warmest, merino wool is the softest, and synthetics dry the fastest. For these reasons, cotton is best avoided.
It’s a good idea to bring some lightweight toys to make the trip more enjoyable if patience runs thin. Dried fruit or nuts can quickly provide new energy. Finally, remember to pack sunscreen, as the sun can be strong even when it’s cloudy.
What should I pack?
Packing list for the mountain cabin in the winter
For a hike between STF mountain cabins, a suitable backpack should have a capacity of 50-65 liters. Add the following to your packing list:
Packing list for winter camping
It’s advisable to camp near a mountain cabin or station the first few times. This way, you can warm up before crawling into your tent or bivouac for the night. STF offers courses for those who want to learn more about winter camping. For a winter camping trip, your backpack should have a capacity of about 70-90 liters, or you can use a sled. Add the following to your packing list:
