The Ultimate Interlaken Packing List: What to Bring for Your Swiss Mountain Trip

Planning a trip to Interlaken, Switzerland? Let me tell you straight—this isn’t your average beach vacation or city break. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, surrounded by the iconic Swiss Alps (think Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch), Interlaken is a playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. But here’s the thing: the mountain weather is unpredictable, the terrain can be tricky, and Swiss customs (and socket types) are different from what you might be used to back home.

I’ve visited Interlaken half a dozen times, in every season—summer hikes, winter ski trips, even a rainy spring weekend—and I’ve made every mistake you can think of: forgetting the right shoes, packing cotton underwear that left me freezing after a hike, and showing up with a regular European plug that wouldn’t fit Swiss sockets. This packing list isn’t some generic “bring a toothbrush and a jacket” guide. It’s the real deal, built from hard-won experience, designed to make sure you don’t waste a single minute of your trip stressing about forgotten items. Whether you’re coming from Paris, London, New York, or anywhere else in the world, this list is tailored for international travelers heading to Interlaken—no fluff, just practical, actionable tips.

1. Carry-On Backpack: Your Day-to-Day Lifesaver

First off, let’s talk about your carry-on. This isn’t just for your laptop and a book—it’s your “emergency kit” and your constant companion, especially if you’re hopping on trains to Jungfrau or taking day trips to nearby villages. You don’t want to be digging through your checked luggage every time you need something important. Here’s what needs to go in it, no exceptions.

1.1 Documents & Money: Don’t Leave Home Without These

Let’s start with the non-negotiables—lose these, and your trip could go off the rails fast. First, your passport. I cannot stress this enough: make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your trip ends. Swiss border control doesn’t mess around, and if your passport is close to expiring, you might get turned away. Pro tip: Make a physical copy of your passport (the photo page and visa page) and keep it in a separate pocket from your actual passport. I also email a copy to myself and my travel buddy—just in case the worst happens and your passport gets lost or stolen.

Next, your Schengen visa. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, so if you’re not from a visa-exempt country, double-check that your visa covers your entire stay. I once met a traveler from Australia who thought her 90-day Schengen visa started when she arrived in Paris, but she’d already spent 2 weeks in France before coming to Interlaken—she had to cut her Swiss trip short because she was over her limit. Don’t make that mistake.

If you’re planning to use public transport (and trust me, you will—Swiss trains are amazing), invest in a Swiss Travel Pass. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth every cent: free trains, buses, and boats across most of Switzerland, plus free entry to over 500 museums. If you buy a physical pass, keep it in a waterproof sleeve—rain in the mountains comes out of nowhere. If you go for the e-pass, make sure your phone is charged, and download the PDF version to your phone (in case you lose service in the mountains).

For money: Yes, Switzerland is super cashless, but not everywhere. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere—cafés, grocery stores, taxis, even small souvenir shops. But here’s the catch: small stalls at markets, rural bakeries, and self-service laundromats (if you’re staying longer) often only take Swiss Francs (CHF). I usually bring 200-300 CHF in cash—enough for snacks, small purchases, and emergencies. Avoid exchanging money at the airport; the rates are terrible. Exchange a small amount at your home bank before you leave, and if you need more, use an ATM in Interlaken (they’re everywhere, and the rates are much better).

Also, throw in printouts (or saved PDFs) of your flight tickets, hotel reservations, and travel insurance. Hotel staff might ask for your reservation when you check in, and border control could ask for proof of accommodation. Travel insurance is non-negotiable—if you get hurt hiking or need to cancel your trip, you’ll be glad you have it. Make sure your insurance covers mountain activities like hiking and skiing (some basic policies don’t).

1.2 Electronics & Extras: Stay Connected and Prepared

Your phone is your lifeline here—navigation, photos, translating German (since most locals speak German, though many speak English too), and checking train times. Before you leave, activate international roaming or buy a European eSIM (I use Airalo—cheaper than roaming and works across the EU and Switzerland). If you prefer a physical SIM card, you can buy one at Interlaken’s train station—look for the Swisscom or Sunrise kiosks.

A power bank is a must. Hiking up Harder Kulm or taking the train to Jungfraujoch (the “Top of Europe”) means you’ll be using your phone a lot for photos and navigation, and outlets are hard to come by. Get a 10,000mAh or 20,000mAh power bank—small enough to fit in your backpack, but powerful enough to charge your phone 2-3 times. Don’t forget the charging cable!

Now, the most common mistake I see: bringing the wrong plug. Switzerland uses Type J sockets—three round pins, and the socket is recessed. A lot of travelers bring a standard European Type C plug (two round pins), which technically fits, but some thicker Type C plugs won’t stay in the recessed socket. Save yourself the frustration and buy a Swiss-specific Type J adapter before you leave. I have a universal adapter that includes Type J, and it’s been a lifesaver—especially when traveling with friends who have different plug types.

Throw in a cheap ballpoint pen too. You might need it to fill out an entry card on the plane (though it’s rare these days), or to write down your hotel address in case your phone dies. Trust me, you’ll regret not having one when you need it.

2. Clothing: The “Onion Method” Is Non-Negotiable

Interlaken’s weather is a wildcard. I’ve been there in July, wearing a t-shirt and shorts in town, then taken the train to Jungfraujoch and needed a jacket and gloves. In January, it’s freezing, but if the sun comes out, you might overheat in a thick coat. The solution? The onion method—layer up, so you can add or remove clothes as the temperature changes. Here’s what to pack, broken down by what you need year-round, and what to add based on the season.

2.1 Year-Round Clothing: These Items Go in Your Bag No Matter When You Visit

First, a waterproof, windproof jacket. Not a thin raincoat—something sturdy, with a hood. The mountains get sudden rain showers and strong winds, and an umbrella is useless (it’ll just blow inside out). I have a Patagonia Nano Puff jacket that’s lightweight, packable, and waterproof, and it’s been with me on every Interlaken trip. Look for one with zippers under the arms for ventilation—you’ll thank me when you’re hiking and start sweating.

Next, a warm mid-layer. A fleece jacket or a thin down vest works perfectly. It’s light enough to pack, but warm enough to keep you cozy when the wind picks up. Avoid thick down jackets unless you’re visiting in winter—they’re too bulky for spring, summer, or fall.

Base layers are crucial, especially if you’re hiking. Do NOT pack cotton t-shirts or underwear. Cotton soaks up sweat and stays wet, which will make you freezing cold (and could lead to hypothermia in the mountains). Instead, buy synthetic or merino wool base layers—they wick away sweat, dry fast, and keep you warm even when they’re damp. I have a few merino wool t-shirts that I wear on hikes, and they’re worth every penny—no more sticky, cold clothes halfway up a mountain.

Comfortable pants: Jeans are fine for exploring town, but if you’re planning to hike, get a pair of waterproof hiking pants. They’re lightweight, stretchy, and will keep you dry if you step in mud or get caught in rain. I prefer pants with zip-off legs—they turn into shorts, which is perfect for warm afternoons in town.

Shoes are the most important item in your bag—don’t skimp here. Interlaken’s streets are cobblestone, and the hiking trails are rocky and steep. You need a pair of comfortable, waterproof, broken-in hiking boots or sneakers. Do NOT bring new shoes—you’ll get blisters, and that will ruin your trip. I wear a pair of Salomon hiking boots that I’ve had for years—they’re waterproof, have good traction, and are comfortable enough to walk 10+ miles a day. If you’re not a hiker, a sturdy pair of sneakers (like Adidas Ultraboost or Nike Air Max) will work, but avoid flip-flops or sandals—they’re useless on cobblestones and hiking trails.

2.2 Seasonal Add-Ons: What to Pack for Summer vs. Winter

Summer (June-August): Interlaken’s summer is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in town, but cooler in the mountains. Add a few short-sleeve t-shirts (synthetic or merino wool, not cotton) and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun protection. A sun hat is a must—wide-brimmed is best, to keep the sun off your face and neck. A lightweight sun-proof clothing is also good for hiking—even on cloudy days, the mountain sun is intense. Don’t forget swim trunks or a swimsuit—Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are beautiful, and locals love swimming in them (even if the water is cold!).

Winter (December-February): Temperatures drop to -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) in town, and even colder on the mountains (Jungfraujoch can be -15°C or lower). Add a thick down jacket—look for one with a hood and fur trim (for extra warmth). Waterproof snow boots or high-top hiking boots are a must—snow and ice are common, so you need good traction. Thermal leggings or fleece pants to wear under your hiking pants, and thick wool socks (bring 3-4 pairs—you’ll want to change them if they get wet). A warm hat (beanies work best), gloves (waterproof is better), and a scarf—even if you think you’re tough, the wind on the mountains will freeze your face.

2.3 Accessories You’ll Regret Forgetting

Sunglasses: Non-negotiable. The mountain sun is intense, and the snow (in winter) reflects sunlight, which can damage your eyes. Get a pair with UV protection—polarized is even better, to reduce glare. I once forgot my sunglasses and had to buy a cheap pair at a gift shop—they broke after two days, and my eyes were sore the whole trip.

Slippers: Most Swiss hotels are eco-friendly and don’t provide disposable slippers. Bring a pair of lightweight, foldable slippers—your feet will thank you after a long day of walking.

A small scarf: Even in summer, the wind on the mountains can be chilly. A lightweight scarf is easy to pack and can add warmth when you need it. In winter, a thick wool scarf is a must.

3. Checked Luggage: The Extras You Don’t Need Every Day

Your checked luggage is for the items you don’t need to carry around with you every day, but still need for your trip. Don’t overpack—Swiss trains have limited luggage space, and you’ll have to carry your bag up stairs at some train stations (not all have elevators). But don’t skimp on these items either—they’ll make your trip much more comfortable.

3.1 Toiletries & Daily Essentials

Toiletries: Most Swiss hotels don’t provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, or towels (some do, but it’s not guaranteed). Pack your own toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and a small towel. If you’re traveling light, bring travel-sized toiletries—they’ll save space. A small bottle of shampoo and conditioner is also good, but many hotels do provide these (check your hotel’s website before you leave).

Skincare: The mountain air is dry—really dry. Even if you have oily skin, you’ll notice your face and hands getting chapped. Pack a moisturizer with SPF, a lip balm (with SPF—sunburned lips are the worst), and hand cream. I use a thick moisturizer at night and a lighter one during the day, and my lips never get chapped anymore. If you’re visiting in winter, add a face oil— it’ll keep your skin from getting too dry.

A foldable reusable bag: Swiss supermarkets (Coop and Migros are the big ones) charge for plastic bags—usually 0.50 CHF to 1 CHF per bag. A foldable reusable bag takes up almost no space in your luggage, and you’ll use it every day—for groceries, souvenirs, or even wet clothes after a hike. I have one that folds into a small pouch, and I keep it in my carry-on just in case.

3.2 Medications: Better Safe Than Sorry

Over-the-counter meds: Pack a small supply of Cold medicine, fever reducer, pain relievers (ibuprofen or paracetamol), stomach meds (for indigestion or traveler’s diarrhea), and motion sickness meds. The train to Jungfraujoch is a winding, uphill ride—if you get motion sickness, you’ll want those meds. I also pack antihistamines, just in case I have an allergic reaction to something (pollen is bad in spring and summer).

Prescription meds: If you take any prescription drugs, bring enough for your entire trip, plus a few extra days (in case your flight is delayed). Also, bring a copy of your prescription (in English)—Swiss customs might ask to see it, and if you need to refill your meds while you’re there, you’ll need it. Don’t forget any medical devices you need—like insulin, inhalers, or EpiPens.

First-aid kit: A small first-aid kit is a good idea—band-aids (for blisters or small cuts), antiseptic wipes, and tweezers (for removing splinters from hiking trails). You can buy one at home or at a pharmacy in Interlaken, but it’s easier to bring your own.

3.3 Electronics & Extras

Camera: Interlaken is one of the most beautiful places in the world—you’ll want to take lots of photos. A smartphone camera is fine, but if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, bring it. Don’t forget extra memory cards and a camera charger. I always bring a small tripod—perfect for taking group photos or long-exposure shots of the mountains at sunrise.

A small power strip: Hotel rooms in Switzerland often have only 2-3 outlets, and if you’re traveling with a friend or family, you’ll be fighting over them. A small, compact power strip (with a Swiss adapter) is a lifesaver—you can charge your phone, camera, power bank, and laptop all at once. Just make sure it’s compatible with Swiss voltage (230V).

Headphones: Long train rides or flights call for headphones. Bring a pair that’s comfortable—over-ear is better for noise cancellation, but in-ear works too. I always bring a spare pair of earbuds, just in case my main ones break.

4. Optional Items: Bring These If Your Trip Calls for Them

These items aren’t essential, but they’ll make your trip better if you’re planning specific activities. Don’t pack them if you don’t need them—save space!

Swimsuit: If you’re staying at a hotel with a pool (many in Interlaken do) or planning to swim in the lakes, bring a swimsuit. The water is cold, but it’s refreshing on a hot summer day. Some hotels have saunas too—so a swimsuit is a must if you want to use them.

Ski gear (winter): If you’re coming to ski, you don’t need to bring skis or snowboards—you can rent them at the ski resorts (Jungfrau Ski Region, Mürren, or Grindelwald). But bring your own ski goggles and helmet—rented ones are often dirty or ill-fitting. If you have favorite ski gloves or a neck gaiter, bring those too.

Water bottle: Swiss tap water is safe to drink—some of the cleanest in the world. Bring a reusable water bottle (stainless steel or plastic) and fill it up at your hotel or public fountains (they’re everywhere in Interlaken). It’ll save you money (bottled water is expensive—2-3 CHF per bottle) and help the environment.

Hiking poles: If you’re planning to do serious hiking (like the Eiger Trail or the Hardergrat Trail), hiking poles are a good idea. They help with balance on steep trails and reduce strain on your knees. You can rent them in Interlaken (at outdoor shops like Intersport) if you don’t want to bring your own.

Binoculars: If you’re a nature lover, binoculars are a great addition. You can spot mountain goats (ibex) on the cliffs, eagles flying overhead, or distant glaciers. I bring a small, lightweight pair—they fit in my carry-on and don’t take up much space.

5. Packing Hacks: Save Space and Avoid Stress

I’ve learned a few packing tricks over the years that make traveling to Interlaken (and anywhere else) easier. Here are my top ones:

Leave 30% of your luggage empty: Interlaken is a great place to shop—Swiss army knives, watches, chocolate, and handwoven textiles are all popular souvenirs. You’ll definitely buy something, so leave space in your suitcase. If you’re traveling light, bring a foldable duffel bag—you can use it to carry your souvenirs back home.

Use vacuum bags for winter clothes: If you’re visiting in winter, you’ll have thick coats and sweaters. Vacuum bags compress them down to a fraction of their size, saving tons of space. I use them every time I travel in winter—they’re a game-changer.

Pack clothes in packing cubes: Packing cubes keep your luggage organized. I use different cubes for tops, bottoms, and underwear—so I don’t have to dig through my entire suitcase to find a shirt. They also help with compression, so you can fit more clothes.

Roll your clothes, don’t fold them: Rolling clothes takes up less space than folding, and it reduces wrinkles. I roll all my clothes except for my jacket (which I fold to keep it from getting creased).

6. Last-Minute Tips for Your Interlaken Trip

Before you leave, download the SBB Mobile app—it’s the best way to check train, bus, and boat times. Swiss public transport is punctual, but schedules can change, so having the app is essential. You can also buy tickets on the app, which saves time.

Learn a few basic German phrases: Most locals in Interlaken speak English, but it’s polite to learn a few words—“danke” (thank you), “bitte” (please), “entschuldigung” (excuse me). Locals will appreciate it, and it might even get you a better table at a café.

Book Jungfraujoch tickets in advance: If you’re planning to visit the “Top of Europe,” book your tickets online a few days before your trip. In peak season (summer and winter holidays), tickets sell out fast, and you might have to wait in line for hours (or not get a ticket at all). You can book tickets on the Jungfrau website or through your hotel.

Know the store hours: Swiss stores close early—most close by 7 PM, and almost all are closed on Sundays (except for stores in train stations). So if you need to buy groceries or souvenirs, do it during the week. Coop and Migros are open until 8 PM on weekdays, which is later than most other stores.

Finally, don’t overpack. You can buy almost anything you forget in Interlaken—pharmacies, outdoor shops, and grocery stores have everything you need. But it’s cheaper and more convenient to bring what you can. This list is designed to cover all the bases, so you can focus on enjoying your trip—not worrying about forgotten items.

Interlaken is a magical place—snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and endless adventure. With this packing list, you’ll be prepared for anything the mountains throw at you. Now go pack your bags, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

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TrailBlazer

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I’ve lived in Barcelona for 8 years, and my mission is to guide you past the bustle of Las Rambla. Together, we’ll uncover the hidden alleyways where only locals know to find the best tapas spots.

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