By now, you probably have a packing list for Switzerland in mind. (If not, I have a complete guide to that here.)
But, from my extensive experience consulting with travelers in the last year, I have discovered “another list” of must-have things people often forget!
These are the kinds of things that can make or break your trip and you absolutely don’t want to forget!
1. Power Adapter (Keep Your Gear Charged)
Switzerland has a unique power plug that will not fit any other plugs in the world, even ones from Europe!
So, be sure to have a power adapter that fits the Swiss plug and also allows you to charge your different devices (I recommend something with various USB ports and a power outlet so you are good to go for everything).
Here is one on Amazon that should be perfect for just about anyone! (I checked the plugs and the Swiss one is labelled Europe as it fits both).
2. Water Bottle (For Free Water)
One of the best things about Switzerland is that there is free, clean water almost everywhere.
Water fountains are on the streets in most towns and cities and along hikes. This is the water we all drink in Switzerland and is perfectly healthy mountain water. (Note: if the water is not drinkable there will be a sign).
So, forget buying bottle water and wasting your money and ruining the environment! Bring your own bottle instead and enjoy the best water Switzerland provides you for free!
3. Some Cash (But Not Too Much)
You can certainly use your debit/credit card just about anywhere in Switzerland, so don’t worry too much about that.
However, you will need a little bit of cash for toilets (bathrooms), shopping carts and perhaps to tip someone (read all about tipping here)
My suggestion to my clients is to bring 20 or 50 CHF and break it as soon as you arrive by buying some gum or a drink in a supermarket or local store so you have some small coins to use.
4. High-SPF sunscreen
When the sun shines in Switzerland, it can be very hot, especially in summer.
However, the real danger is up in the mountains, where for every 500ft you rise, the protection from the sun decreases significantly. On top of that, if you are in snowy areas like the Jungfraujoch, the sun reflects and burns even more.
So, don’t make the mistake of thinking “it’s not hot today” (but sunny), or we are on the top of a mountain and the wind is blowing so its cold – you WILL still get burnt!
5. Waterproof Jacket
The weather in the Swiss mountains can be quite changeable – it’s just the nature of mountains (unfortunately).
So, you should always be prepared for rain (or snow in later months) no matter how sunny it looks when you leave the hotel.
So, if you are heading up into the mountains, always have a waterproof jacket with you – just in case ( you will thank me later :>).
6. Good Walking Shoes
Want To Save This For Later?
You will be doing a lot of walking in Switzerland, even in the cities. Switzerland is a pedestrian’s paradise!
And once you leave the cities, you will, of course, be walking even more in the mountains and on uneven mountain paths.
On top of that, the weather does not always play along and your feet might get wet.
So, I recommend that you get some decent waterproof walking shoes, if you don’t have them already.
I wear shoes like those pictured above, which have great grip and are waterproof.
Or, if you want something sportier, you can try these kinds of trail running shoes.
7. Binoculars
If you enjoy wildlife spotting, there is a chance you will see some Swiss mountain goats like the Ibex or perhaps even smaller marmots as they whistle their warning cry as you approach.
And failing that, it is cool just to look up into the distance and see all the peaks and even spot a climber doing something nutty high above you.
8. Swiss Army Knife
When in Rome…well, Switzerland, you should get yourself a Swiss Army Knife. Just pop into a Migros supermarket and they have super affordable ones with a knife, can opener, bottle opener and a few other bits and pieces.
Why are they so handy? Well, one of the best ways to save some money in Switzerland is to take your lunch with you. Head out in the morning to the supermarket and stock up on bread, cheese, ham, wine and fill up your water bottle in your bathroom (drinkable :>). Good to go!
Picnic in the Alps, here you come!
9. The Right Mobile Apps
I have discussed this in detail here but I will mention it again – there are some absolute must-have apps when you are traveling in Switzerland:
- SBB Mobile app (train/bus timetables and purchase)
- Google Maps (or Apple Maps)
- A Translation app
10. Enough Mobile Data
And since you will be using Google Maps and SBB to figure out all your movements and navigation, you will be needing some data too.
If you home data plan includes a reasonable option (and $10 for data is not what I would call reasonable) then go for it. But most don’t.
I recommend adding an eSIM to your phone and topping up as you go with one of these amazing providers I have used in dozens of countries!
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