Switzerland is one of the most beautiful parts of the world. Sitting in the heart of Europe, you couldn’t ask for a more breath-taking landscape. But Switzerland is unforgiving to those who are not prepared. Here are five things you must bring when going to Switzerland.
Plenty of Warm Clothing
When you think Switzerland you think mountains and snow. It’s not really the kind of place you can visit in shorts and a singlet. Even in the height of summer many parts of Switzerland can reach below freezing. With that knowledge, it is important to pack plenty of warm clothes. Winter jackets, gloves, scarves, beanies, everything. Coming from a warmer climate, you probably don’t want to be wearing all these clothes onto a plane. A big suitcase, like those you can get from Luggage Direct, is a must-have when traveling to Switzerland.
Currency
Though Switzerland is in the heart of Europe, it is not a part of the European Union. As such, it does not share the EU’s currency. Rather it uses its own, the Swiss Franc. Most places in Switzerland will not accept other currency so you will need to stock up on Francs before you arrive. Switzerland’s stable economy keeps its currency quite high, making it an expensive country to visit.
Hiking Gear
Once you are outside the major cities in Switzerland there isn’t really much to do, aside from adventure sports. They have some of the best hiking tracks in the world, and if you are going there you simply cannot miss them. These tracks lead to some of the most magnificent views in the world. You will want to take a good pair of hiking shoes, ones that have been broken in, and any other necessary hiking gear, such as walking poles and backpacks. Warm clothes are, as always, a must for hiking in Switzerland.
Ski Gear
To go to Switzerland without skiing is to go to the beach without seeing the sand. Parts of Switzerland offer skiing all year round, even at the height of summer. Though ski resorts offer ski rentals, you might still consider bringing your own, especially if you plan to stay for more than a week. Boots, however, are not something you want to be renting. Ski boots are hard to get right, and if you plan on skiing all day then you want the right kind of boots. So buy them before you leave so you know you are happy with them.
Sun Protection
It might sound a bit odd that sun protection is a must have in a country so cold, but it is still very important. The high altitude makes the ultraviolet rays far more intense, making burning significantly easier. Not only does the altitude affect it, the snow will reflect the sunlight, burning you from below. Good sunscreen is a must alongside full body covering. Though the cold will have you covering your body anyway, parts of your face will no doubt be exposed.
Switzerland is a truly amazing part of the world to visit. It has so much to offer, from breathtaking mountain views to awesome lakes and forests. Have you been to Switzerland? What advice do you have?
