The essentials on the list: Clothing & backpack for crossing the Alps

1. The backpack

Before you can pack your rucksack, you need a hiking rucksack suitable for multi-day hut-to-hut hikes such as your Alpine crossing. Hans recommends the larger models from the deuter Futura series: the Futura Pro 36 as a unisex model or the Futura Pro 34 SL as a women's version.

This backpack is a comfortable and robust companion that offers many well thought-out details and enough space for multi-day hikes. At 36 or 34 liters, the Futura model is the right backpack size for a six to eight-day crossing of the Alps. When buying, make sure that the rucksack is equipped with a well-ventilated back system, plenty of separate storage options and a hiking pole holder. Ask a sports retailer to help you adjust the backpack.

Our tip: It's not just what you pack in your rucksack for crossing the Alps that is important, but also how: heavy luggage should be carried close to your body's center of gravity. You can find detailed instructions in our guide "Packing your rucksack correctly".

2. Change & hut clothing

The basic equipment for every Alpine crossing includes the right clothing. Look for functional sportswear that is as light as possible and packs down small. Dress appropriately for the weather at the start of your tour. You should wear at least ankle-high hiking boots with a treaded sole, functional hiking trousers and a sports shirt, as well as telescopic hiking poles. You can also attach these to your rucksack if you are not using them. The rest is packed in the rucksack. As always: as little as possible, as much as necessary. Underwear and socks, a change of trousers and T-shirt, sweater and light hut shoes are best stowed in the main compartment of the rucksack. Don't forget a hut sleeping bag - this is compulsory in almost all mountain huts and is always hygienic.

Expert tip: Mountain hiking guide Hans swears by pack sacks for packing: "Pack sacks make it much easier to organize your rucksack. Everything I don't need until the evening at the hut goes into a bag. Even the hut sleeping bag fits in there."

Crossing the Alps on foot: pack weather & sun protection

3. Sun protection

At best, bright sunshine awaits you on every stage. Protection from the rays is therefore essential. Because be careful: the high-altitude sun is aggressive and is often underestimated in combination with light winds. Therefore, always choose sun cream and lip protection with a higher sun protection factor than you would normally use. Sunglasses and a hat are also a must on tour. Pack these in a side pocket of your rucksack.

4. Rain protection and warm clothing

In the mountains and especially on a multi-day crossing of the Alps, changes in the weather are to be expected at any time. That's why a full rain cover consisting of a rain jacket and trousers should be in your luggage even when the sun is shining. The Futura is well protected at all times thanks to the integrated rain cover. You should also think about an additional insulating sweater, thin gloves, a headband or a hat. Pack these items in the front pocket or side pocket of your rucksack so that they are easily accessible.

Expert tip: "In addition to rainwear, an umbrella is a must in my rucksack," says Hans. "When buying, you should look for a lightweight but very sturdy trekking umbrella."

5. First aid & medication

A mountain accident can often be the end of your Alpine crossing. However, minor injuries such as knocked knees and hands after a fall can be treated well on the way - with the right equipment. A well-equipped first aid kit is therefore a must. It is also advisable to pack painkillers and personal medication. If the going gets tough, a rescue blanket, bivouac sack and a cell phone with emergency numbers stored in it are essential.

Expert tip: "Listen to your body and don't force yourself. Of course, you often have to overcome your inner bastard in the morning, but walking shouldn't be painful," advises the experienced mountain hiking guide. "Small warm-up and stretching exercises in the morning stimulate your circulation and prevent injuries".

6. Laundry

What about showering in the mountains? Resources such as water and electricity are always limited in mountain huts and should therefore be valued and used sparingly. You can usually get a hot shower by inserting a coin - then you have hot water for a few minutes. You should pack a small wash bag for personal hygiene, e.g. the super-light Wash Bag Tour I or simply a plastic zip bag. Include a travel shower gel or small bar of soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, a small functional towel, a small tube of hand wash and most importantly: earplugs!

Expert tip: "When it comes to personal hygiene, you have to limit yourself compared to everyday life: a hairdryer or even styling products have no place on the mountain. We've seen it all before!" states Hans.

Must not be missing on the hike or on the Alpine crossing

7. Water & provisions

When hiking from hut to hut, you will be served a hearty mountaineering meal and breakfast by the host in the evening. This is usually included in the price of the overnight stay and cannot be canceled. Advantage: You don't have to carry so much if you only have to take a small snack with you. Plan in advance when you can replenish your supplies at a supermarket in the valley. Hard cheese and sausage, boiled eggs, bread, bananas and apples are recommended as provisions. Make sure you take enough fresh tap water with you for each stage. A hydration system can be found in every good hiking rucksack and saves you the hassle of taking your rucksack off and on. Your water is always to hand via the drinking tube.

Expert tip: "Energy bars save space and weight and still provide enough power for a midday snack," says Hans and warns: "Never fill up your hydration bladder from streams! These are often contaminated with cow dung, even if the water looks temptingly pure. Only drink water from the tap in the hut."

Orientation & safety: the last items on your Alpine crossing packing list

8. Navigation aids

Where am I coming from, where am I going? A map and a hiking guide are a must on your tour. A compass or GPS device will help you find your way. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the devices and the individual stages before setting off on your crossing of the Alps. It is best to practise finding your way with a map and compass at home.

Expert tip: "Plan each stage the evening before using your hiking guide and the map. That way, you won't be dependent on the signs on the route and will know what to expect the next day," recommends Hans. "Always try to keep your bearings on the way so that you know where you are at all times - this is not only important in an emergency to call mountain rescue."

9. Electronic devices

Electronics include not only your smartphone with emergency numbers, but also the right charging cable. Spare batteries for your GPS device are advisable and a headlamp is essential, as it is often pitch dark at night in the dormitory and in and around the hut.

Expert tip: Hans reveals his personal insider tip: "If I need a bit of peace and quiet at the hut in the evening, I always have my e-reader with me."

10. Valuables

For weight reasons, you should not take your entire wallet with you. ID, cash and debit card are enough! Put everything in a lightweight touring wallet or a plastic zip bag. An old-fashioned but extremely practical option is a chest pouch, which you can also wear on your body while you sleep.

Expert tip: "In the huts, only cash is king. So always carry enough cash with you."

We wish you lots of fun on your tour!