Switzerland, Switzerland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Switzerland, Switzerland? If you're planning to go to Switzerland, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Switzerland, Switzerland

Based on the climate and weather in Switzerland, Switzerland, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Switzerland, Switzerland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Switzerland, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Switzerland, Switzerland by month

January

January in Switzerland is very cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with several days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to get the right kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February in Switzerland is very cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

March in Switzerland is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Be careful to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

April

April in Switzerland is brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to high 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Switzerland is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

June

June in Switzerland can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

July in Switzerland is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to choose the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

August

August in Switzerland is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

September

In September, Switzerland can be chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Switzerland, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Make sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in Switzerland can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Check that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

November

If you go to Switzerland in November, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain or snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to get the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

In December, Switzerland can be extremely cold. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Switzerland, with several of the days of the month having rain. There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Switzerland has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Switzerland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and J. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Switzerland, Switzerland

Switzerland is a beautiful country nestled in the heart of Europe, and it is renowned for its soaring mountain ranges, shimmering lakes, and charming medieval cities. With so much to see, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we will highlight some of the top tourist attractions in Switzerland that you won't want to miss.

1. The Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is Switzerland's most famous mountain, and it attracts millions of visitors each year. This iconic peak soars up to 4,478 meters, and the view from the top is simply breathtaking. You can take a cable car to reach the top, or you can hike up the mountain for a more challenging experience. Either way, the Matterhorn is an unforgettable experience.

2. The Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Switzerland, and it is simply stunning. The falls are located near Zurich and can be easily reached by train or car. You can take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls, or you can hike around the area to enjoy the stunning scenery.

3. Lucerne

Lucerne is a picturesque medieval city located in the heart of Switzerland. The city is famous for its wooden bridges, colorful buildings, and stunning vistas. There are plenty of things to see and do in Lucerne, including taking a cruise on Lake Lucerne, visiting the famous Lion Monument, or simply strolling through the quaint old town.

4. Jungfraujoch

Jungfraujoch is a mountain pass located in the Swiss Alps, and it is one of the highest points you can reach in Europe. The pass is home to a massive glacier, a cogwheel train that takes you to the top, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. If you want to experience the thrill of the Swiss Alps, Jungfraujoch is a must-see destination.

5. Zermatt

Zermatt is a charming mountain village located at the base of the Matterhorn. The village is car-free, and the only way to get around is by foot or electric taxi. Zermatt is famous for its skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore in the village.

Conclusion

Switzerland is a beautiful country that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for stunning mountain vistas, charming old towns, or outdoor adventures, Switzerland has it all. These top tourist attractions are just a taste of what this beautiful country has to offer, and they are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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