What to Pack for the French Alps: Essential Packing List

April 10, 20255 min read

The complete packing list for the French Alps

Whether you're heading to the slopes or the hiking trails, here's what to pack.

Clothing:

Ski jacket and pants (waterproof, breathable)

Thermal base layers (merino wool recommended)

Warm fleece or down mid-layer

Ski socks (wool blend, NOT cotton)

Warm hat, gloves, neck gaiter

Après-ski boots or warm casual shoes

Sunglasses and ski goggles

Ski gear (rent or bring):

Skis/snowboard — can rent at resorts

Helmet — strongly recommended, rent or bring

Ski boots — always better to bring your own

Hiking boots (broken in!)

Quick-dry layers

Rain jacket (weather changes fast in mountains)

Sunscreen SPF 50+ and sunhat

Water bottle and snacks for trails

**Sunscreen SPF 50+** — Mountain sun is intense, even in winter

**Lip balm with SPF** — Essential at altitude

**European power adapter** — France uses Type C/E plugs

**Cash in Euros** — Small shops and mountain refuges may not take cards

**Travel insurance** — Especially for skiing (mountain rescue is expensive)

**Prescription medications** — In original packaging

Ski/snowboard rental at every resort

Warm accessories (hats, gloves) at resort shops

Sunscreen and toiletries at pharmacies

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