Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List - The Ultimate TMB Gear List
So, you've booked on to the Tour du Mont Blanc, and it's time to start preparing for your trek of a lifetime.
Below, we provide a detailed Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. This is a comprehensive list of everything you need for this epic trek, as recommended by our expert guides.
Complete Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List
Happy trekkers on the Tour du Mont Blanc highlights route.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it's essential to pack wisely. We've broken your essential kit list down into sections so it's easier to follow. From paperwork to warm layers, get ready to start packing for this epic journey!
Documents
Don't forget your passport!
Nothing ruins a trip quite like getting to the airport and realising your passport is back home! Double-check that you have all the necessary documents for travel before you leave the house.
We also highly recommend that you take out travel insurance for this trek. Keep a copy (electronic or physical) of the policy number and other information you would need to make a claim.
The following are very important items to bring with you on your adventure to Switzerland and Mont Blanc:
Passport
Travel insurance details
Medical insurance details
Boarding passes for flights
Accommodation booking confirmation (if you're staying extra nights)
For the cash amount, we recommend 150 Euros and 150 CHFs each per person. You can use this for buying lunches during your trip, buying drinks during the trip, and for purchasing souvenirs or other items that catch your eye.
It is important to have cash on hand. Remember, you will be trekking in the mountains, and in some places, card machines aren't available or don't work well.
If you're spending more time in Chamonix around your Tour du Mont Blanc trip, you'll need to budget a bit more. Need some inspiration for Chamonix activities - check out our post.
Tour du Mont Blanc Gear List
Trekking poles are extremely helpful on this mountainous route.
This is a non-technical trek, so you don't need any fancy equipment. You do, however, need to bring the basic trekking gear.
If you don't have everything at home, you can purchase or rent some of the items on this list at the lodge before you begin your trek.
Sleeping bag liner: this is for use in the refuges and is usually for sale at the lodge before your trek.
A daypack you can carry: a small backpack with a 35L to 45L capacity should be plenty to fit all your kit. We recommend one with a waist belt.
Trekking poles: these are available for rent from Vert Lodge (approx EUR 10)
Quick dry, lightweight travel towel
Dry bag
Water bottle: at least 2L or two smaller bottles equalling this.
You will warm up as you hike - wearing layers makes it easier to stay comfortable.
Anyone who has done this trek will confirm that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. It's important to pack appropriate clothing and be prepared for all conditions (it can snow even in the summer).
The views will be all the more spectacular if you are warm and dry!
We recommend packing everything on this list. When you arrive at the lodge, your guide will let you know whether you can leave anything behind as stored luggage.
N.B.: cotton clothing is not recommended for trekking. This is because cotton soaks up sweat and does not dry easily.
The following is a good Tour du Mont Blanc clothing checklist:
Trekking boots: 3- or 4-season lightweight boots or trail runners
Comfortable shoes for the evenings (flip-flops, sandals etc.)
2 x t-shirts for the hike (fast dry material)
1 x comfortable shirt for the evening
4 x socks for hiking
3 to 4 pairs of underwear
Fleece jacket (optional)
Light down or Primaloft jacket
Rain and windproof hooded jacket (fully waterproof)
Rain and windproof trousers
1 x pair of hiking trousers (pants with zip-off legs that change into shorts are ideal)
Comfortable trousers for the evening
Lightweight hat and gloves
Swimsuit (optional)
Sunglasses
Medical and Other Items
Sun cream, an essential in every hiker's backpack.
As you'll be up in the mountains on the trail, it's important that you bring all of your necessary personal medication, including allergy-related medication.
Also, be sure to pack chargers and extra batteries for electronics.
The following is a list of extras to pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc:
Sun cream and other sun protection, such as a hat and buff
Personal medication: inhaler, blister pads, etc.
General toiletries
Contact lenses and glasses (if needed)
Electronics: phone, charging cable, USB plug. You can buy Swiss-compatible plugs before you start the trek.
Lip salve
Hand sanitiser
Wet wipes
Final Tips On What to Pack For Tour Du Mont Blanc
Pack light for a more comfortable trek.
All in all, the key is to pack light! Remember, you will be carrying your own bag while on the trail.
Other than that, quality trekking clothing and a layered approach to dressing will greatly improve your personal comfort level.
By packing thoughtfully, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges and make the most of this incredible adventure.
