What to pack for the Alps in summer: A girl’s guide

Wondering what to pack for an adventure in the Alps this summer? My packing guide (and printable packing list) should have you covered for mountain walking, lakeside lazing and evenings enjoying the towns and cities in my favourite part of Europe.

Towering peaks, deep blue lakes, emerald green forests and mountain pastures.

There are a lot of good reasons to head to the Alps in the summer.

This mountainous region of Europe has long been my summer getaway destination of choice. Aside from the staggering natural beauty, it’s a region that’s packed with things to do that make it perfect for active travellers like us. First time visitors also might be surprised to find that glorious sunshine and warm weather are the usual here. Temperatures in the mid 20s through to low 30s are common, especially in July and August. Conditions can change fast though, and late afternoon thunderstorms and wet days can spring up out of nowhere.

With this in mind, packing for the Alps in summer can pose a bit of a challenge. With so many activities on offer – and a potentially wide range of possible weather conditions – it can be hard to know where to start. But never fear. With years of practice under my belt, I’ve got packing for the Alps down to a fine art.

In this guide I’m sharing my secrets to packing success, and unpacking what you’ll find locals wearing (so you’ll feel right at home). PLUS, I’ve created a helpful packing list you can download, customise and print – so you can focus your time planning the fun parts of your trip.

So let’s get started. Here’s my guide to what to pack for your alpine adventure.

There’s no AI here! Every post on Travels with a Saddle Bag is written by myself and based on my own travels. This post was written in September 2018 and last updated in December 2024, based on dozens of visits to the Alps in summer.

Packing for the Alps in summer: An overview

I’m making an assumption that you’re heading to the Alps for the same reasons as me: to explore the mountains on foot (or maybe bike), potter round mountain towns and cities, and relax from time to time – maybe by a lakeside or river and almost certainly at a local bar or restaurant terrace. Hopefully that means we’re on the same page.

To keep things as simple as possible, I’ve broken this guide down into the following sections;

• Active wear
• Casual wear
• Footwear
• Everything else

For each of these, I’ll talk through the essentials. And much as this might seem a lot, it’s not! I’ve packed hand luggage only for a week and more in the Alps on numerous occasions and I’ve had everything I needed. Remember that this is a laid-back part of the world and outdoor wear is the norm in most places. With my packing list in hand you can feel confident to leave behind what’s not needed, knowing you have everything you do.

Active wear: How to dress for active days in the Alps in summer

If you plan to spend your days exploring mountain trails on foot or by bike you’ll want to pack clothes that are comfortable, lightweight and adaptable to different weather conditions.

No problem! A few essentials will have you kitted out for most of your stay.

The basics

You’ll want to start with a couple of pairs of lightweight shorts and technical (breathable) t-shirts or vest tops to wear during the day. You can opt for gear from specialist hiking clothing brands, but any sportswear you’re already comfortable in works. As a runner, I wear a lot of my running kit, and find that I never look out of place.

If, like me, you have sensitive skin that’s prone to burning, I’d recommend opting for long or short sleeved t-shirts instead of vest tops. It can be pretty exposed if you’re exploring high up in the mountains.

Layering up

Obviously, shorts and t-shirts aren’t going to cut it if the weather turns. It’s best to pack a few layers to adapt your outfits to differing weather, and be prepared on longer walks with extras in your bag. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains.

I’d recommend one or two pairs of long sports leggings or walking trousers for cooler mornings or wet days. A couple of long sleeve technical t-shirts will give you options for cooler days. I often layer these on top of short-sleeved t-shirts if it is cool in the morning, days usually warm up quickly.

A lightweight but warm fleece or two is another must have – especially if you plan to head up high. I always carry one in my rucksack and have a spare back at my accommodation.

In case it’s wet

My number one essential for this part of the world? A good waterproof jacket. Whilst the weather is pretty dependable in mid-summer, it rains in the mountains from time to time, and usually when you least expect it. It’s important to be well-prepared and have something up to the job. The right jacket means you can still enjoy being out of doors, even if the weather turns. Opt for something lightweight and breathable – as wet doesn’t necessarily mean cold at this time of year. A jacket that’s also windproof is great, it’ll act as another warm layer if it gets a little blustery.

Casual wear: When relaxation calls

With your adventure wardrobe sorted, it’s time to turn our attention to everything else.

When you’re not walking, cycling or otherwise active, the chances are you’ll probably want to pull on something that isn’t sports clothing. Even if I’m in the mountains to walk or cycle, I still enjoy exploring local towns (and the occasional big city) and I’m just as likely as the next person to find myself heading out for dinner or drinks at the end of the day. And for this part of my trip, I want to get out of my running shorts. Alpine resorts tend to be casual and laid back. Think jeans and a t-shirt sort of places. There’s no expectation to dress up for dinner, unless you want to.

The basics

I like to pack a small selection of casual shorts, skirts and t-shirts to give me plenty of options. Items I can mix and match are best (similar colours help) and make it easy to create different outfits each day without packing much. In hot weather, I tend to steer towards floaty cotton tops rather than tight-fitting tees, but it’s entirely up to you.

Oh, and I’ve got a secret weapon. Travel dresses.

Summer dresses made from stretchy, comfy, breathable fabrics – the sort you’d normally find your sportswear made from. And you’ll find them in the usual places you’d look for technical clothing (I like Go Outdoors and Snow + Rock in the UK), and from brands you’ve heard of, like Marmot and Roxy. And rather than looking frumpy, or dare I say it – ‘practical’, they’re available in a huge range of style, colours and fun prints.

Easy to wear, easy to wash, easy to pack. My favourite travel wardrobe shortcut.

In case it’s cooler

Come July or August in the Alps, there’s a good chance you’ll be blessed with balmy evenings. But on the off-chance of a cooler one, a casual jumper or cardigan or two, usually does the trick. I also pack one pair of jeans or lightweight trousers in case the weather turns – there’s nothing more miserable than being stuck in shorts if it does pour down.

Down by the water

Lastly, if you’re heading somewhere with a lakeside beach or a pool (great plan, by the way) don’t forget your swimwear and a beach towel.

Footwear: Getting off on the right foot

It goes without saying that comfortable shoes are essential in the mountains.

For serious walking, you’re going to want a shoe with a decent amount of grip underfoot. I’d recommend trail running shoes or summer walking shoes as a lighter weight alternative to walking boots for the summer months. These are what you’ll see most locals in, unless tackling very technical trails. Although of course if you’ve boots you’re happy in, there’s no reason not to take these instead. I’m a huge fan of Salomon Speedcross trail running shoes for summer walking, a choice I see many others wearing on mountain routes.

Whatever walking shoes you go for, pack plenty of cushioned walking socks to keep your feet fresh and blister free.

When you’re off the mountain, sandals that you can comfortably walk in should cover you for days in town or evenings out. You might also want a pair of flip-flops for kicking around at the beach or pool – your call. Steer clear of anything with even a small heel as roads in resorts can be steep and you’ll almost certainly find yourself off tarmac at some point. It’s not worth the bother.

I’ve been traipsing up hills and round bars in Birkenstocks for years and find they’re perfect for this sort of trip. They don’t look out of place in town or a restaurant, and have both grippy soles and adjustable straps to help them fit just right. As a bonus, it seems nearly everyone else in alpine resorts has the same idea.

Alternatively, casual trainers are never out of place round here and can be ideal for giving your feet a break from heavier walking shoes.

Discover my favourite walking shoe to pack for the Alps in The best women’s walking shoes for summer: A Salomon Speedcross review.

Everything else: What else to pack for summer in the Alps

With your clothes packed, there are a few other essentials I’d always suggest for summer in the mountains.

Daypack. First up is a good rucksack – one that is at least big enough for a picnic lunch and a few extra layers. Depending on the weather, length and difficulty of our walk I either carry a 10L Salomon trail pack (for easy, shorter walks) or a 25L Lowe Alpine rucksack with waterproof cover (for longer days and unpredictable weather).

Water bottle or bladder. You’ll want to carry at least a litre of water with you and have plans for refilling on long or hot days. I love my Platypus bottle for reliability, much better than reusing a single use bottle.

Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen. Make the most of those sunny days, safely. Keep in your rucksack, days can start cloudy but clear quickly.

Small first aid kit. If you’re exploring in the mountains, this is a no-brainer.

Casual bag. The chances are, like me, you’d rather a small handbag or casual backpack around town than the one you’ve hiked with. My ubiquitous saddle bag is ideal, but not essential.

Top tips for packing

There are a couple of simple tricks I’ve learned along the way that make packing even easier.

• Book accommodation with a washing machine, or pack travel wash. Rather than preparing fresh outfits for every day of a trip, keep costs and packing down by doing a quick bit of laundry halfway through. On a summer’s day it’ll dry in no time.
• Outdoor brand clothing is great, but not essential. If you have gym or other sports clothing you’re comfortable in, this should do the trick just fine – aside from waterproofs and footwear.
• Check the forecast ahead of time. Whilst long range forecasts always have a degree of unpredictability, they can be helpful. If unexpected wet weather or a heatwave is predicted, pack accordingly (with a few reserves in case this changes).

My printable packing list

Why not keep things as simple as possible and download my Summer in the Alps packing list?

I’ve included handy tick boxes and blank spaces for you to add your own essentials. And where I’ve written ‘x ___’ you can add your own magic number to remind you how many of each item to pack.

Download your packing list for summer in the Alps here.

Squeezing it all in

Packing for the Alps in summer needn’t be daunting. It’s simply a case of figuring out what you’d like to do, and adding the essentials for these activities. You’ll want to dedicate more of your suitcase to activewear so you’re comfortable come rain or shine. But casual evenings need just a few basics – you’re here for the sunsets and spritzes after all. If you’re not afraid to mix and match, and keep half an eye on the weather, it’s a breeze.

Save your energy for planning a spectacular stay rather than baggage dramas. Wherever you’re heading, have the most wonderful trip.