Plus, a few pro travel tips. |
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As an avid traveler, I’ve always had Switzerland on my list of dream destinations. This year alone, I've traveled to Japan, France and the Bahamas. I wasn’t planning on going abroad again anytime soon, for the sake of my wallet, but when prices on flights to Geneva dropped earlier this year, I knew I couldn't pass up this opportunity.
My five-day itinerary included several days in the quaint lakeside city of Lausanne, home of the Olympics Museum, and the tranquil alpine wonderland of Zermatt, renowned for the snowcapped Matterhorn peak.
With weather ranging from the 70s in the city to below freezing in the mountains, I knew packing my carry-on would require an immense amount of strategic planning. Below, I break down the items that made the cut, plus a few travel tips I wish I’d known sooner. |
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Marilyn La Jeunesse Newsletter Editor |
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The North Face Hiking Boots
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I put these hiking boots to the test during a downpour in the Catskills, so I knew they were perfect for my 8-mile hike through the Swiss Alps. Not only did they save me several times on slippery terrain, but they also helped protect my feet on my nearly five-hour trek up and downhill.
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Uniqlo Heattech Long-Sleeved T-Shirt
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With temperatures dipping into the low 30s at the mountaintop, I stocked up on several pieces of Uniqlo Heattech before my trip, including these undershirts, which helped keep me warm and toasty during the entire hike—even when the wind made it feel like it was in the teens.
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Osprey Tempest 22 Pack
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Never underestimate the power of a good hiking backpack. My husband and I borrowed a back-supporting pack from our hotel, but we noticed tons of people on the trails had this one from Osprey, which offers tons of features for avid walkers and is far more comfortable than a standard bag.
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The North Face Rain Jacket
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Layering is the key to success on any alpine vacation. I packed this rain jacket because it was super lightweight and easily folded down to fit inside a backpack. Not only did it keep me dry, it easily fit over my sweater and secondary jacket. I’d recommend sizing up if you plan on layering.
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| | |  |  | | The Lodge At Blue Sky | | Looking for a mountainous retreat that’s a little closer to home? Just 15 minutes from Utah’s Park City Mountain Resort, where the hotel operates a private ski lodge, The Lodge at Blue Sky sits on 3,500 acres of ranchland. The property offers a variety of rooms, suites and houses, plus amenities including indoor and outdoor fireplaces, private terraces and soaking tubs. There are five dining and drinking options on-site—including a whiskey distillery—as well as a spa. For entertainment, The Lodge at Blue Sky offers live music on weekends, nightly stargazing and s’more-making, guided group hikes and more. |
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Pro Travel Tips:
-Switzerland is incredibly expensive, especially if you’re traveling throughout the country. Save a few extra dollars by purchasing the Swiss Travel Pass, which allows you unlimited travel through Switzerland by train, bus or boat for a fixed cost. (Trust me, I did not do this, and my wallet and I both regretted it.)
-If you’re traveling to Zermatt, plan to stay a few days in order to increase the likelihood of a clear day for a hike. There are tons of webcams and weather-prediction sites to help make sure you’re not spending a ton of money on a hike without a view.
-Looking for a great place to stay that’s both upscale and relaxing? I booked CERVO Mountain Resort, which featured tons of spa-like amenities. I practically lived in the sauna, plus the restaurants and infinity hot tub both face the Matterhorn, a huge perk when the mountain is visible.
-Save a few francs by avoiding bars. Instead, shop liquor and beer at local grocery stores like Migros or Coop. These are also great places to stock up on tons of snacks for your hike. Don’t be like me and pack only a Toblerone. It will not sustain you. Trust me. |
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