How do you prepare your stay in the mountains in the winter and in the summer?

 

To fully enjoy your winter stay in the mountains, it is essential to prepare yourself well for the weather conditions. Snow, wind and cold require specific equipment to stay comfortable and avoid getting sick. Here is the list of things to remember for a comfortable and pleasant winter stay:

 

- Even in winter, the sun in the mountains can be intense. Apply high protection sunscreen and lip balm 💄 to prevent chapping and sunburn.

- The sun’s reflections on snow can be dazzling, so quality sunglasses 👓 are essential to protect your eyes.

- Keep your head warm wearing a hat.

- To protect yourself from the cold wind, a scarf 🧣 or neck wrap is essential.

- Choose warm, waterproof gloves 🧤 to keep your hands warm.

- Prefer socks 🧦 specific to skiing, they will be both technical and comfortable to avoid blisters and keep you warm.

- Think of thermal underwear to keep you warm without making your outfit heavy.

- Opt for intermediate layers (wool or fleece sweater) to add under your jacket for more warmth.

- Prefer a warm and waterproof jacket, with the possibility of adding an underjacket for more insulation.

- Whether you practice skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing or just for walking a suitable suit is important to avoid the cold and humidity.

- Waterproof, warm and non-slip boots 👢 are required for walking in the snow or for outdoor activities such as snowshoeing.

- A thin hood to put under your helmet to protect you from the cold, especially on particularly icy days.

- A helmet is essential for your safety, especially if you practice winter sports.

- The ski goggle 🥽 is essential to protect your eyes from wind and snow particles, while improving your visibility on the slopes.

- If you are a skier, of course, ski stick can be useful but also for those who want to walk on snowshoes or on foot.

- If you travel by car, don’t forget to bring chains (or socks) or snow tires to move safely in the snow.

 

In summer, the mountain offers an idyllic setting for hiking, walking and outdoor activities. However, the weather can be changeable and it is important to prepare well. The following are key elements for a safe and enjoyable mountain experience during the summer season:

 

- As in winter, it is crucial to protect your skin from the sun’s rays in summer. Opt for a high-index sunscreen.

- At altitude, UV rays are stronger, so don’t forget your sunglasses 👓.

- A cap 🧢 or a light hat 👒 will protect you from the sun, especially during hikes.

- Choose lightweight but breathable clothing that wicks sweat away and keeps you dry all day.

- A jacket 🧥 even light is advised because the mountain air can be fresh.

- In the mountains, the weather can change quickly, so it is important to provide a rain cape or waterproof jacket in case of showers.

- Take sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes 🥾 suitable for rough terrain. Hiking in the mountains requires good ankle support with a non-slip sole.

- Don’t forget a backpack 🎒 that’s light but spacious enough to carry water, snacks, your rain jacket and other necessary accessories during your hikes.

- Altitude can dehydrate faster, so always keep a water bottle 🍼 on hand.

- Pocket or multi-tool knives: can be used during a hike or outdoor activity.

 

Whether in winter or summer, the preparation of your stay in the mountains depends on equipment adapted to the climatic conditions and activities you wish to practice. Be sure to check the weather and adapt your clothes according to the forecast because it can change very quickly, so you need to have things for all weather!