When heading off on a summer mountain holiday, you might think flip-flops and swimsuit, plus a pair of trainers and maybe a light cardigan for the mountain version. Summer mountain packing: be careful — at altitude, the weather is not to be taken lightly!
To make your preparations easier and let you enjoy wide-open spaces and fresh air without being caught out, here are the key things to keep in mind when packing for a perfect summer mountain holiday.
Mountain weather specifics for summer mountain packing
- The cool air
Beyond the beauty of the landscapes, what makes the mountains one of our favourite destinations during the hot summer months is their cooler air. The higher you climb, the cooler it gets — by about 1°C every 100 m of elevation.
It is easy to see why you should put the sliders aside and dress warmly to head up to a beautiful 2,500 m summit, when your holiday chalet sits at 1,000 m.
- The sun: our “best enemy”
We love feeling its rays warm our cheeks and bronze our shoulders. Yet beware — at altitude the UV index rises by 10% every 100 m of elevation. With the cooler ambient temperature, we tend to underestimate the sun’s effects and end up with unpleasant surprises in the evening. So do not skimp on sun protection — and remember to protect your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses.
- Don’t get caught out
Another particular feature of the mountain weather is how quickly it can change. Many factors (surrounding peaks, temperature differences across altitudes and times of day, wind patterns, precipitation…) can drive these shifts, which can be as sudden as they are dramatic. So always pack something to protect you from bad weather, even if you set out under clear blue skies.
Checklist of essentials for your summer mountain packing
- A backpack to keep your essentials within reach without weighing down your back.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, a cap or — even better, because it covers more — a hat.
- A water bottle (you dehydrate quickly at altitude…).
- A lightweight down jacket: practical, takes up no space and slips in anywhere.
- A fleece, and more generally warm, breathable clothing.
- A windproof jacket.
- A waterproof outer layer.
- Sturdy lugged boots for better grip on terrain — ideally above the ankle for better support.
If you fancy it and have a little space left in your bag, you might also add:
- Telescopic walking poles. Foldable, they are practical to clip to a backpack without taking up too much space. While hiking, they help your progress and give you a fuller workout by engaging more of your upper body.
- Binoculars. Because the mountain stages many sights worth a closer look: a chamois on a cliff face or a bearded vulture passing overhead — the spectacle can be breathtaking (never look directly at the sun through binoculars, at the risk of damaging your retina!).
- A head torch, for early risers who want to experience hiking at dawn and watch the sun rise as nature wakes up.
Now ready for anything with your mountain bag packed, all that is left is to enjoy your summer with peace of mind and discover our summer mountain stays with original, sport or relaxation activities!
How to dress in the mountains
The best solution is to dress using the three-layer principle, adopted by mountain guides worldwide.
- A breathable base layer.
- A warm insulating layer such as a fleece.
- A waterproof outer shell.
This allows you to adapt easily to changing weather conditions throughout the day.
Common packing mistakes
Avoid these common errors:
- bringing only trainers or city shoes;
- forgetting warm clothing;
- underestimating the mountain sun;
- leaving your waterproof jacket behind.
Adapt your packing list to your activities
Your equipment will naturally depend on your plans.
If you’re planning:
- hiking, bring walking poles and a refillable water bottle;
- mountain biking, choose breathable sportswear and gloves;
- rafting or canyoning, pack a microfibre towel and a change of clothes;
- relaxing at your chalet, don’t forget your swimsuit if your chalet features a swimming pool, jacuzzi or spa.
👉 Discover our guide to Summer Mountain Activities.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need warm clothes during summer?
Yes. Temperatures can be surprisingly cool in the mornings, evenings and at higher elevations.
What shoes should I bring?
Walking shoes or hiking boots with good grip are strongly recommended if you plan to hike.
Do I need a waterproof jacket?
Yes.
Mountain weather can change very quickly, even during the height of summer.
What size backpack is best?
A backpack between 20 and 30 litres is ideal for most day hikes.
What should I never forget?
Our essentials are:
- sunglasses;
- sunscreen;
- reusable water bottle;
- suitable footwear;
- fleece;
- waterproof jacket;
- hat.
Ready for your Alpine adventure?
Once your suitcase is packed, all that’s left is to choose your destination.
Explore our guides to help you plan the perfect holiday:
- Summer Mountain Holidays
- Summer Mountain Activities
- What to do in La Plagne in summer
- What to do in Les Arcs in summer
- What to do in Méribel in summer
- What to do in Courchevel in summer
- Luxury Summer Holidays
- Summer Mountain Holidays with Teenagers
- All-inclusive Summer Mountain Stays
- All-inclusive Mountain Rental
- Luxury Chalets in the French Alps
