Gear & Packing
Our packing and gear list is based on typical seasonal and environmental conditions we are likely to encounter.
This is a fully supported hike led by experienced local guides. Each day we will be transported by vehicle to our hike's starting point, and transported at the end of the day’s hike to our lodge or hotel for the evening. On the trail we carry lightweight day packs, while the rest of our gear is transferred for us between accommodations.
When packing for our hikes, we recommend you avoid cotton clothing. Compared to technical synthetic material, it is heavier and dries slowly. Synthetic materials and even wool are warmer, dry fast, and allow you to pack light. You can easily wash a piece of synthetic clothing in the sink as you arrive at the mountain inn and have it dry and ready to wear by the next morning.
Hiking Gear
Backpack / day pack. Required for each guest, to comfortably fit gear needed during the day (snacks, water bottle, extra layers, personal items, etc.). Minimum recommended pack size is 30 liters (bigger is better than too small). Consider a professional fitting if you are purchasing a new backpack for this trip.
Waterproof pack cover
Durable water bottle (2 liters)
1 pair telescoping/collapsible hiking poles
Optional: Low gaiters (early season trekking)
Footwear
Hiking boots. Ankle-supporting boots with technical rubber sole (i.e., Vibram or similar). It is critical that you break in your boots before arrival, as traveling with blisters is a painful way to enjoy the French Alps
2 - 3 pair synthetic/wool mid-weight hiking socks
1 pair of ultra-light shoes (i.e., flip flops, slippers)
Outerwear
1 waterproof/breathable rain jacket
2 -3 long-sleeve shirts (synthetic)
2-3 T-shirts
Underwear
1 pair of long underwear
1 - 2 pair of shorts
1 pair of hiking pants
1 polar fleece or light down jacket
1 poncho
1 pair of warm gloves
1 warm beanie hat (synthetic or wool)
1 billed hat
Personal Items
Sunglasses with case
Toiletries
Personal medications
Sun screen/lip protection
Fast-dry towel
Book/reading materials
Camera
Journal and pen
Binoculars
One-person sleep sheet (silk is the most comfortable and the lightest)
A small amount of laundry detergent
Personal first-aid kit with bandages, stretchable strapping tape, 'second skin' blister coves, medicine for common aches and pains