Packing List for Your Hut Tour in the Alps (Multi-Day Trip)

Have you decided to go on a hut tour? That means you can explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes nature offers.

But before you leave for your adventure, there’s one important thing you need to do: Pack your bag.

Don’t worry. I’m here to help you out. I’ll give you a comprehensive packing list for a hut trip in this blog post. I’ll ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable trip, from essentials like food and water to gear like a headlamp and map.

Basic equipment for a hut tour

There’s nothing better than a hut tour in the mountains.

You’re exploring new terrain, taking in breathtaking views, and spending time with friends or family in the great outdoors.

But before you head out on your next hut trip, make sure you know the basics.

Here’s a quick list of essential gear for a successful tour:

Hiking boots: A good pair of hiking boots is essential for a hut tour. Make sure they are comfortable and well broken in before you head out. Don’t use new boots on a long hike because you don’t know how they will feel after hours of wear.
Hiking Pants: I prefer long hiking pants that zip off the knee. You can wear shorts in high temperatures and pants again in cooler weather. Make sure they are water-resistant and have lots of pockets.
Functional shirt: a breathable, quick-drying shirt is key to comfort on the trail. I like to pack a few different shirts to layer up if needed.
Fleece Sweater: A lightweight fleece sweater is great for cool mornings or evenings around the campfire. It can get pretty cold in the mountains during the darker hours, so it’s good to have a warm layer with you.
Rain Jacket: Pack a waterproof and windproof jacket that will keep you dry and comfortable in wet or cold conditions. With a rain jacket, you can hike in any weather.
Hiking Backpack: It is important to have a large and sturdy backpack for a hut tour. Make sure it has plenty of compartments and pockets where you can logically store all your gear.
Hut sleeping bag: Some huts provide sleeping bags, but it is always a good idea to bring your own just in case. This is a better choice for hygiene reasons alone. It’s best to buy a sleeping bag that weighs little.
Food and drink: Most huts offer food, but it is always a good idea to bring your food. Make sure you pack enough snacks and drinks for the trip. I also recommend bringing a water filter if you run out of clean water along the way.

Other equipment for the hut tour

To be prepared for your hut tour, you’ll need more than just your food and clothing.

You’ll need other essential gear.

I’ll give you an overview of what you need to bring on your hut tour to have a great time.

Fleece jacket: You will need a fleece jacket for a hut tour. The nights can be cold even in the summer, so it’s good to have a warm layer with you.

Zippered hiking pants: As I mentioned earlier, it can get pretty hot on a hut tour. That’s why I recommend you pack a pair of zip-off hiking pants. Depending on the weather, they are versatile and can be worn as shorts or pants.

Spare hiking socks: This is a must for any hike, especially for a hut trip. Your feet will sweat, and you’ll need a clean pair of socks each night.

Spare hiking pants: you should pack a second pair of pants if your first pair gets wet or dirty.

Rain pants: This is not a must, but it is always good to have rain pants with you if you are expecting rain.

Hat: You should always pack a hat, especially on a hut tour. It will protect you from the sun and keep your head warm in the evening.

Sunglasses: The sun can be strong at high altitudes, so you should have a good pair of sunglasses.

Hiking poles: Hiking poles can be very helpful on a hut tour. They provide extra stability on steep trails and help you move faster.

Rain cover for your backpack: Maybe it’s just me, but I always seem to get caught in the rain on my hikes. That’s why I always carry a rain cover for my backpack. It’s a small item, but it can be very useful.

These are just a few of the most important gear you’ll need for your hut trip.

You should pack them all to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Technology and maps to help you find your way on your tour

In today’s technologically driven society, countless applications can help hikers find their way on their tours.

I’ll share some of the most commonly used apps and an overview of their features.

Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned outdoorsman, these tools can help make your next hike more enjoyable and safer.

Compass: A compass is a must-have for any hiker. You can use it to find your way when the GPS goes down. To use it, though, you should first learn how to use a map to find your way.

Topographic Map: I never hike without a topographic map. It contains a detailed representation of the terrain with elevations, contours, and landmarks. This information can be very useful when trying to navigate unfamiliar terrain.

GPS unit: A GPS unit can be very helpful, but you should not rely on it exclusively. Make sure you are familiar with using your device and know its limitations before you set out on your hike. I would still use a map and compass in conjunction with my GPS unit as a backup.

Headlamp: A headlamp is an essential piece of equipment for any night hike. It keeps your hands free and allows you to see in the dark. It’s also recommended for your hut trip, as trails can be dark and treacherous in the evening.

Emergency Whistle: A whistle can be a lifesaver in an emergency. You can use it to call for help or scare away animals. Take one with you on your next hike – mine is always hanging on your backpack.

Smartphone and Charger: We all know how valuable our smartphones can be. They can be used for navigation, communication, and photography. But they can also run out quickly, so be sure to take a charger.

Photography equipment: I like to take great photos for my blog and keep my hikes memorable. That’s why I always have my photography gear with me, including a tripod, camera, and lenses – I use a Fujifilm X100V, among others, because it’s small and lightweight.

These are just a few tech tools that can help hikers on their trips.

Familiarizing yourself with their features will help you make the most of your next hike.

For an overnight stay in a mountain hut

An overnight stay at a mountain lodge is the ultimate way to take your hiking experience to the next level.

You spend more time in nature, but you also have the opportunity to meet other hikers and learn about the area.

Cabin Sleeping Bag: A cabin sleeping bag is a must if you spend the night at a cabin. These sleeping bags are specifically designed for use in huts and are more practical than your big sleeping bag.
Cabin shoes or sandals: Cabin shoes or sandals are another important piece of gear for your cabin stay. This is important because they will not allow moisture from the ground to penetrate your sleeping bag. The cabin may not often be used without them.
Sweatpants: there is nothing worse than sleeping in wet sweatpants. So be sure to pack a pair of sweatpants to wear at the end of the day. They’re cozy and will keep you warm.
Dry Socks: Dry socks are an absolute must for any hiker. They keep your feet warm and dry, which is important if you spend the night in a cabin.
Hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. These things are important to keep you clean and comfortable during your stay.
Washbag: A wash bag is a great way to keep your hygiene items organized and easily accessible.
Travel Towel: A small travel towel is a great way to dry yourself off after a shower or swim.
Insect repellent: Insect repellent is important to keep mosquitoes away at night.
Plastic bags: for your trash and dirty laundry.
Entertainment: Card games or other small games are a great way to pass the evening.

Tip: It can get crowded in the cabin, and many people snore loudly. Other noises can keep you awake, such as the sound of the wind or animals outside.

Earplugs are a good way to block out these noises.

Food and supplies on the hut tour

When planning your hut trip, there are a few things you need to consider.

First and foremost, what are you going to pack for food?

And secondly, what supplies will you need for the hike?

I’ll give you an overview of what to expect regarding food and supplies on your hut tour.

Drinking: I recommend at least 1.5 liters of water per person and snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit.
Lunchbox: foods like energy bars, dried fruit, and nuts are ideal for long days of hiking.
Dinner: It is recommended to bring food that does not require cooking, such as sandwiches, pasta salad, or cold cuts.
Pocket knife: A pocket knife, can opener, and multitool are essential items for any hiker.
Trash Bags: What you bring, you should take back, and zip-lock trash bags are great for this.
Lighter: A lighter is important to start a fire on the gas stove and cook your food.

Know where you’re going and how long you’ll be on the road so you can pack the right food and supplies.

Over time, you’ll get a sense of how much food is enough for you and what tastes best when you’re on the road.

Health and first aid for your hut hike

Is there anything more satisfying than finishing a hut hike? You’ve done your research, planned your rod, and packed the necessary gear.

But have you prepared for any first aid needs that may arise on your hike?

I’ll give you some important health and first aid tips for your next hut hike.

Whether preventing blisters or knowing what to do if someone gets altitude sickness, you’ll be prepared for anything with these simple tips.

First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is an important part of any hiker’s kit. You should have bandages, gauze, band-aids, and scissors in it.
Bivy Sack: A bivy sack is a lightweight and waterproof alternative to a tent. It can come in handy if you get stuck on the trail overnight.
Band-Aids: blisters are not uncommon among hikers, and band-aids can keep them from getting worse.
Sunscreen: sunscreen is essential on any hike, especially in the summer months. I recommend a sun protection factor of 30 or higher (though 50 is better).
Handkerchiefs: A handkerchief can be useful for many reasons, such as wiping your face or dressing a wound. Especially on a multi-day trip, you’ll be glad to have a roll of paper.
Seat cushion: A seat cushion can make your hut stay and hike more comfortable, especially when you take a break to enjoy the view.

Other accessories for the hut hike

Besides the essential items already mentioned, a few other accessories should be stowed in your backpack on your hike.

I always take the following with me on a multi-day tour:

Documents: passport, insurance card, and other important documents.
Money: You will need money for food, transportation, and other small things.
Swim trunks: Bring your swim trunks if you’re like me and jump into every mountain lake.

Tip: Just enough cash you should always have with you. I heard from an acquaintance how he and his wife were turned away at the door during a heavy snowstorm because the hut operator only takes cash. Fortunately, another guest was able to help out.

I hope these tips helped prepare for your next hut hike.

Remember to pack the essentials and some extras that can make your trip more enjoyable.

How many clothes do you need for a hut tour?

That depends entirely on how long you’ll be out and the weather.

If you’re doing a short hike, you can make do with socks and shirts.

However, if you plan to be out for a few days or the weather is unpredictable, you should pack more clothes.

You should pack a full change of hiking clothes per person per day as a rule of thumb.

This includes things like shirts, pants, socks, and underwear.

You should also pack a few extra items if you get wet or dirty along the way.

And don’t forget to pack a bathing suit if you want to swim in one of the lakes along the way.

What should the maximum weight of the hiking backpack be?

We all know how important it is to have the right gear when hiking.

But what about the weight of your backpack? Is there a limit to how much you can carry?

The answer is: it depends.

Some backpacks are designed to carry more weight than others. And how much weight you can carry also depends on your strength and fitness.

A good rule of thumb is that the weight of your backpack should be less than 25% of your body weight.

For example, if you weigh 100 kg, your backpack should not weigh more than 25 kg.

This includes the weight of your gear, food, water, and other supplies.

Remember to consider the weight of your backpack when choosing your gear. And don’t be afraid to lighten your pack by leaving some non-essential items behind.

Of course, this is just a general guideline.

If you’re taking a lot of gear or food, you may need to increase the weight limit.

And if you’re particularly strong or fit, you may be able to carry more weight than the average person.

But it’s always a good idea to start with a lower weight and increase it as needed.

Remember, your safety always comes first.

More tips for the multi-day trip

I have more tips for you if you want to do a hut tour.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Make sure you’re comfortable: your pack should be comfortable and comfortable in your hiking boots.
Keep your pack tidy: A tidy pack will make your hike more enjoyable and less stressful. There is nothing worse than searching for your cell phone or sunscreen in a messy backpack.
Don’t experiment on a multi-day trek: If you’re going to be out for several days, don’t take untested gear. Make sure everything is working properly before you head out.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can quickly lead to fatigue and dizziness. Make sure you drink plenty of water, especially on hot days.
Be prepared for all weather conditions: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack accordingly.
Consideration in the hut: You are not alone in the hut, and you should consider that. Be considerate of the other guests and keep the noise level down after dark.
Don’t expect a fairy tale castle: If it’s your first time doing a hut tour, don’t expect extreme luxury and a friendly welcome. Most of the staff are up there for several weeks, lose their smiles upstairs. So don’t expect too much, but always remain friendly.
Take the trash back with you: You must leave the cabin as you found it. So take your trash with you when you leave.

Also, I recommend you take hand sanitizer because common areas like the kitchen and restrooms can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

And last but not least: Have fun!

The mountains are beautiful, and there’s nothing like a hut tour to get you up close and personal with nature.

I hope these tips have been helpful.

Have fun on your hut tour in the alps!