Switzerland - What to Pack- Clothing and Supplies Tips

What to Pack for Switzerland

If you are planning a stay in Switzerland anytime soon, you are probably wondering what you should pack. The following tips should help you prepare for your stay in Switzerland.

Luggage

No matter what you have planned for your Swiss adventure, these luggage options are ideal for a short or long-term stay.

Zurich Card

The first thing we bought when we arrived at Zurich International Airport was the Zurich Card; it will really save you money. A 24-hour Zurich Card costs 24.00 CHF and a 72- hour is just 48.00 CHF. Almost all public transportation within the city limits is free-of-charge with the Zurich Card including free travel by train from the airport to the city. Most of the museums including Rietberg Museum, Kunsthaus and the National Museum are free with the Zurich Card. Don’t forget to validate your Zurich Card at orange validating machine before boarding the train at the airport.

General Packing Tips

Choose luggage big enough for warm clothes if you will be visiting in the winter. Pack warm shoes as well, especially if you are not used to the cold. You should pack your own toiletries. If packing a camera, be sure to bring an adaptor. Even if you plan to visit during a warmer time of year, you may want to pack a hat and scarf, especially if you plan to go up one of the mountains.

Clothes to Pack

Visa

The need for a visa depends your nationality and the purpose of your visit. An overview of visa provisions is available on the web along with a downloadable visa form in several world languages.

Electricity/Plugs

Switzerland uses type C (2-pin) and Type J (3-pin) plugs (Type C 2-pin plugs also fit J sockets). Check out this link to see which other countries use the same plugs, and whether you will need an adapter to run your appliances from a Swiss socket.

Electronics to Pack

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about what to pack when visiting Switzerland.

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