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Your ultimate Tour du Mont Blanc packing list-essential hiking gear, clothing, and a few luxury extras, all while keeping your pack light and ready for the adventure.
It can also be intimidating knowing what to pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc, especially if you're carrying everything yourself, haven't stayed in a mountain hut before and are trying to blalance having the essential gear for the TMB, with the weight of carrying it.
Besides our TMB Packing list, which you can shop for directly here, you can also check out our 6, 7 and 10-day TMB Self-Guided and Guided Tours.
Or, if you're wanting to plan it yourself and want further information, then check out: Tour du Mont Blanc: How to Plan for this Epic Trek.
My Experience of Packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc
The TMB was my first real long-distance hike. I had only a vague idea of what to pack since most of my other hiking trips were day hikes or just an overnight backcountry camping trip.
When I first laid everything out on my bed and tried to stuff it in my backpack, a third of it didn't fit. The next attempt, I managed to get it closed, but just barely.
After strapping it up and staggering a few steps, I quickly realized that if I was having a hard time making it across my bedroom, I had no chance of making it 160km across mountain passes every day.
S o I reduced it again. I can't emphasize how important it is to prepare your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list in advance and see if you can carry your backpack!
It's also a great idea to do some practice hikes with the equivalent weight of what you plan to bring with you on the TMB. Not only will your back and shoulders thank you, but it will also help build the muscles that you need.
The Tour du Mont Blanc packing list will also work for our 7, 11 and 14-day Haute Route and our Alta Via 1 hikes in Italy.Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List: Clothing for the Upper Body
Base layer: for wicking sweat off your skin. I LOVE Merino wool as a base layer because it repels ordor but quick-drying polyester will also work and is cheaper. Never wear cotton, you'll be too hot or too cold.
Your base layer can be a merino wool t-shirt or long sleeve shirt that's loose enough that you can push the sleeves up if it gets too hot. And you can actually wear your Merino wool shirt multiple days without washing it and it really doesn't smell, wicks away moisture and dries quickly. It's also really soft on the skin.
Two shirts is enough if they have sleeves that you can roll up. Otherwise bring two long sleeve and one t-shirt in your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.
Mid-layer: this is for insulating and helps your body retain heat. I always bring a lightweight fleece, even in summer, since temperatures can drop very quickly. You'll likely also wear it in the evenings if you go outside the mountain huts, as the nights do get chilly in the Alps.
Outer layer: this is a shell with a hood to protect you from wind and rain. There's a good chance that it will rain at least once while you're doing the TMB. Weather can change quickly, and it can often be cold and windy in the French and Swiss Alps.
Sports Bra: Obviously, this one is for women only. Ladies take care of your girls while staying comfortable and look for one that's breathable and quick drying to prevent uncomfortable moisture from building up.
I'd recommend bringing 2 sports bra, plus 1 more for wearing in the mountain huts after hiking.
You can see all these items in our TMB gear list on Amazon.
TMB Packing List: Lower Body
Convertible Hiking Pants: These are my favourite essential item of hiking gear. They are full length pants that zip off at either just below the knee and/or also zip off above the knee, turning them into shorts, depending on the style.
I almost never hike in regular shorts. These are much more practical should the weather change as it very likely while you're hiking the TMB. Plus, then you only have to pack one pair, making your load lighter.
W aterproof Pants: As mentioned, it will likely rain on your TMB hike, so bring a lightweight pair that doesn't take up much room.
Hiking Shorts: These are optional, since I still prefer the convertible hiking pants mentioned above.
Hiking Socks: Socks are one item you don't want to cheap out on. A good pair of socks will help prevent blisters by wicking the moisture away. They'll also help regulate your foot temperature.
All it takes it getting a bad blister once for you to be convinced of the value of a good pair of socks. Trust me, don't learn the hard way. Bring 2 pairs of hiking socks, and another regular pair of socks for wearing in the evenings in the mountain huts.
Quick Dry Underwear: Bring 3 pairs of quick-dry underwear. By being quick dry, you save space by not having to bring so many pairs.
Long Underwear: You only need these if you're hiking the TMB in June or September. A thin pair made from Merino wool that easily fit under your convertible hiking pants will do the trick.
Gaiters: You don't need gaiters if you're doing the TMB in July or August, but they do come in handy if you're doing it early season in June or mid-September when there's likely to be snow at the higher altitudes.
Hiking Boots: You'll want to invest in a good pair of hiking boots. Your feet will thank you for it. I always buy a 1/2 to 1 size bigger, since your feet swell after a day of hiking. I recommend trying them on near the end of a day, when your feet are already swollen.
Since you'll be hiking multiple days in a row, I recommend hiking boots over hiking shoes for extra support and because you'll be less likely to sprain an ankle.
Be sure you break in your hiking boots well before your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure begins to prevent blisters.
You can find all these items in our TMB gear list on Amazon.
Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List Accessories
Duffel Bag/Soft Shell Luggage: If you've chosen the luggage transfer option on our Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Tour, you'll need to put your hiking gear in a duffel bag or soft shell luggage. The maximum weight is 33 lbs (15 kg). If you're carrying your own stuff then you don't need to worry about this.
Hiking Backpack: 20-30L is fine if you've chosen the luggage transfer option. Otherwise, I'd recommend 45-60L if you're carrying everything yourself but staying in mountain huts. Look for one that has a built-in rain cover. It will fit better than if you buy one separately.
Also, buy one that has space between the pack and your back to prevent back sweat. It can be uncomfortable and can have a huge impact on your body temperature. Check for more tips on how to choose the right hiking backpack. I'm a big fan of Osprey and Deuter backpacks.
Hiking Poles: While these are technically an optional item on your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list, I highly recommend them for multi-day hikes since they significantly reduce the load from your joints, especially when hiking downhill.
Plus, studies show that they reduce muscle soreness (something you'll definitely have on the TMB after hiking for multiple days in a row) and reduce recovery time.
Look for anti-shock (to absorb more of the impact) & retractable hiking poles so that you can carry them on your backpack when you're not using them.
Baseball/Suncap: You definitely don't want to get sunstroke while hiking so bring some kind of hat that will protect you from the sun.
You only need the following three items if you're hiking the TMB in June or September.Neck Warmer/Buff: This is an optional item in your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list, but I find it really useful and carry a thin one when I do the TMB, even in summer.
Merino Beanie: When hiking in the French and Swiss Alps in June and September it can be cool in the mornings so I recommend bringing a Merino wool beanie that's moisture wicking since hiking the TMB will make you sweat even if it is cold.
Light Gloves: As it can be cold in the mornings in June and September, and sometimes throughout the day in June and September bring a thin pair of gloves to keep your hands warm.
You can see all these items in our TMB gear list on Amazon.
Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List: At the Mountain Hut
These TMB packing list items are intended if you're staying in a mountain hut and will be hanging out with other hikers. If you're doing our 6-day Luxury Tour du Mont Blanc, you can bring whatever you like.
Indoor Shoes: Mountain huts do not allow regular shoes in certain areas or at all in the hut. Bring a pair of flip flops, slippers, or another pair of comfortable shoes that don't take up much room to be worn indoors only. Some, but not all mountain huts will provide these.
Pyjamas: You may be sharing a room with others. Even if you have your own private room, you will be sharing a bathroom, so bring something that you're comfortable with other seeing. I.e. leave the negligee at home. Alternatively, you can sleep in your clean hiking shirt, or long underwear if you're trying to pack lighter.
Sleeping Bag Liner: A sleeping bag liner serves as a barrier between you and the blankets. It can be very thin, like a sheet. Don't worry about being cold since the mountain huts provide blankets, and some will provide a pillow. Bring this even if you're staying in private rooms since some but not all accommodations provide linens.
Quick-Dry Towel: Most mountain huts don't provide towels, so you need one you can dry off with after a shower, and use to dry your face.
Casual Shirt/Pants For Hanging Out in the Mountain Hut: Comfortable shirt and pair of casual pants or leggings. You'll wear these after hiking and having dinner in the mountain huts. You can also wear your hiking clothes if you have enough extras, but you'll definitely want clean ones. And allow time for drying as well.
Universal Travel Adapter: You'll need an adapter that works in Europe and that has multiple outlets. Outlets are in short supply in the mountain huts, so choose one allows you to charge multiple devices at the same time - i.e. yours and your hiking buddy.
Basic Toiletries: Toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc, but try to keep it light and pack in a water resistant packing cube to prevent leakages.
Travel Laundry Soap: Hand washing your clothing during your trek means you won't have to bring as much and will lighten your pack. Look for biodegradable detergent to reduce your environmental impact on the fragile Alps.
Optional Items for the Mountain Huts:The following items are optional but I find make staying in mountain huts much more pleasurable.
Kindle Fire: If you like to read then bring your Kindle and pre-load with books (like my book Dating Tips for Women with Advice From Cats 😉 since wifi in the mountain huts may not be strong enough to download a good.
Card Game: You'll likely find yourself with time to relax after hiking when you arrive at the mountain hut each day. Bring a card game or other game that doesn't take up much space. Also invite other hikers to play. It's a great way to connect.
Small Massage Ball: I highly recommend bringing a small one that you can use on your feet, aching shoulders, and legs. It doesn't take up much room and feels soooo good.
Magnesium: This is an optional item, but I find when doing a multi-day hike, like the TMB, that taking magnesium each day helps to reduce muscle soreness.
Muscle-Soreness Relief Cream: If you're prone to muscle soreness or haven't done many multi-day hikes before, then consider bringing something to help relieve sore muscles.
You can see all these items in our TMB gear list on Amazon and get the printable TMB Gear list by entering your email below.
Hydration & Food on the Tour du Mont Blanc
You'll get breakfast, although breakfasts can be small and dinner on our Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided tours, and if dinner isn't included, there will be nearby restaurants.
You can also order a packed lunch from your mountain hut the night before to take with you the next day. You can also eat at a mountain hut en route while hiking, but I don't recommend relying on this since you may reach a mountain hut before or after lunch time, or it may be full.
That's why I recommend the packed lunch and bringing hiking snacks. You can buy hiking snack in Chamonix before the start of your trek and you'll be able to refill in Courmayeur, but if you have favorite snacks that you can't live without, then consider bringing them with you.
Water Bladder/Water Reservoir: I prefer hiking with this since I find I drink more, preventing dehydration and can hike and drink at the same time without having to stop and break my pace. I recommend a 3-L one for the TMB.
Water Bottle: You can just use water bottles to hike, or a combination of a water bottle and a water bladder (my preference), but always have at least 2 water sources in case one leaks and you find yourself without water.
Electrolyte Tablets/Powder: These stay in my First-Aid kit and I'll frequently use it when hiking in hot weather as a preventive measure. If you feel light-headed, dizzy, or have low blood pressure, these can make you feel better in a flash.
Energy Bars: Energy bars are a great food source on the trail. I always keep one or two as an emergency stash in my backpack. Also check out what I recommend for hiking snacks here.
Nuts: Nuts, seeds, trail mix are all good choices as they fill you up and don't take up much room.
Safety Items for Your Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List
Emergency Thermal Blanket: This is tiny, but may save your life if you get stranded on the mountain since hypothermia is a real risk if you unexpectedly end up having to spend the night on a mountain. I never hike without one. See my post where I talk about why a survival blanket is a must when hiking.
Mini First Aid Kit: For day hikes you probably don't need a full-size First Aid Kit. I use a mini one which has the basics. Find out more about what should be in your First Aid Kit.
Blister Prevention/Treatment:Anti-Blister Stick: Bring instant comfort to those spots that feel like they are going to blister, especially when doing a hike like the TMB when you'll be hiking multiple days in a row. Prevention is key. You want to use it before it turns into a blister.
Compeed Blister Cushions: I think Compeed is the best blister treatment on the market! I always carry a few in my backpack.
You can see all these items in our TMB gear list on Amazon.
Navigation Essentials for Your TMB Packing List
Smart Phone: If you're doing one of our Tour du Mont Blanc self-guided tours, you'll need one to download your tour and the GPS tracks. Even if you're going on your own, and not doing one of our tours, I highly recommend downloading the GPS tracks of your day hike into a hiking app such as AllTrails, Gaia, or Mapy, before you go hiking to ensure that you don't get lost.
While you can bring another GPS device, I prefer a smartphone since you can also use it to take photos of your hike.
Paper Map: Always bring a paper copy of a map and a description of your Tour du Mont Blanc hiking route. It's fine to use hiking apps/electronic versions, but bring a paper one as a backup in case the electronic version fails.
Miscellaneous Items for Your Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List
Head Lamp & Batteries: I always carry a headlamp in my backpack. While the TMB is well marked and it's unlikely that you'll need it while hiking, you may need it in the mountain hut if you have to get up and go to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
Bug spray: This is a small item to carry and is essential in my book.
Toilet Paper: If you've ever been without toilet paper while hiking and had a #2 bathroom emergency, you'll understand why you should always bring a roll with you.
Plastic Bags: You have two choices, either bury your #2 business, or carry out your used toilet paper. Yes, it's stinky and gross, but do it anyway.
Sunscreen: Sun protection is really important.
Sunglasses: A must on the trail. I never go on a hike without them.
Cooling Towel: A cooling towel is an optional item if you tend to overheat and are hiking the TMB in July or August.
Wipes: Cleansing wipes can be useful if you want to freshen up but aren't essential. Look for ones that are biodegradable. Most mountain huts have timed showers, but occasionally if it's been a dry year, you might not have the option to take a shower, and wipes will make you feel cleaner and get some of the sweat off you.
Waterproof Phone Case. Having a waterproof case for your phone on a hike can be a great asset if you're hiking in a wet area and have your phone out a lot for navigation.
Dry Bag: For your electronics and passport. Note, even if you have chosen the luggage transfer option, you're legally required to have your passport with you at all times (or EU ID if you're an EU citizen).
You can see all these items in our TMB gear list on Amazon.
Travel Insurance
As soon as your accommodations and hiking tour have been confirmed, I recommend purchasing Travel and trip cancellation insurance right away.
I recommend HeyMondo(and you'll get a 5% discount for being a Monkeys and Mountains reader) since it includes mountain rescue and repatriation insurance which are required and not covered by all insurance policies.
Also, unlike many insurance policies, it also covers pandemics in case we ever find ourselves in a situation like we had a few years ago. Check out their site for the specific details, as not everything is included.