There’s nothing quite like waking up in the middle of the mountains. But whether you’re spending just one night in a mountain hut, planning a longer hut-to-hut hike, or even crossing the Alps, an overnight stay in a hut always takes a little preparation. That starts with your gear. So here’s what I never head out on a hut-to-hut hike without.
The right backpack
Whenever I plan a trip with an overnight stay, I reach for a larger backpack. Depending on the length of the trip, I recommend a capacity of 28 to 35 liters. I also make sure my fully packed backpack weighs no more than 8-10 kg. And believe me, you won’t want it much heavier than that.
There are so many different backpack models to choose from, though. Backpacks with mesh back panels. Backpacks with adjustable back panels. Backpacks that extend above your head. Backpacks that are packed wider rather than taller… Your best bet is to ask for advice at a specialist store on which fit works best for your body type. Stores also have filling materials so you can test how the backpack feels with weight in it. Don’t be afraid to try a few. A good fit is important, and you’ll notice the difference as soon as you’re on the trail.
The right clothing
- Technical shirt
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Fleece
- Insulated jacket
- Hardshell jacket
- Long hiking pants
- Hiking shorts
- Quick-drying underwear
- Socks
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Neck gaiter
- Spare shirt
The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be sure to pack warm clothes. A fleece and an insulated jacket will keep you prepared. You can choose between down and synthetic insulation. A hardshell jacket will also protect you from approaching rain showers or strong winds. A beanie, gloves and a neck gaiter are good to have just in case. It never hurts to be prepared.
Otherwise, don’t bring too many changes of clothes. Depending on the length of the trip, one to three spare shirts are usually enough for me. If necessary, I can give them a quick wash at the hut and let them dry on my backpack the next day.
The same goes for hiking pants. The higher you go, the less likely you are to need hiking shorts. Long hiking pants also protect you from sharp rock edges or branches in heavily wooded sections.
Also of interest: Hut-to-hut hiking in Rosengarten>
What you need for an overnight stay in a hut
- Sleeping bag liner
- Microfiber towel
- Toiletries
- Headlamp
- Ohropax earplugs
- DAV membership card
- Cash
- Power bank
An overnight stay in a hut is a little more rustic than a hotel stay. That means you’ll share a sleeping room with other people, the washrooms are communal, and often only the dining room is heated. Because the blankets are used again and again, you must sleep in a sleeping bag liner for hygiene reasons. It’s basically a sheet sewn into a sleeping bag shape, but super lightweight. You can get one made of cotton or temperature-regulating silk. I also always bring Ohropax earplugs for a more restful night’s sleep. You never know if someone might snore. 😉
Tip: Reserve your huts by phone in advance to make sure you have a place to sleep.
Showers aren’t always available, and when they are, they often cost extra. So you can leave the big bath towel at home. Pack a small, lightweight microfiber towel instead. It takes up hardly any space and is perfectly sufficient for a quick wash.
At some huts, the washrooms and toilets are outside. A headlamp is handy for finding your way in the dark and avoiding the need to switch on the main light in the dormitory. Your phone’s light works too, of course, but a headlamp also leaves your hands free.
Speaking of phones: electricity is often in short supply at mountain huts, so there are frequently no outlets for charging your phone. If you want to play it safe, pack a fully charged power bank.
Most huts don’t accept card payments, either. So bring enough cash to pay for your overnight stay and meals. If you’re a member of the Alpine Club, pack your DAV membership card too. It gets you a discounted overnight rate at Alpine Club huts.
Other things you shouldn’t leave behind
- First aid kit
- Map
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Blister plasters
- Snacks
- Water
Your route determines what you pack
This is a list of the basics I take with me pretty much every time. Depending on the route, you’ll need to add to it. If you’re going through deep snow or over icy sections, for example, gaiters and crampons are a good idea. If you’re planning a via ferrata, you’ll of course need the appropriate via ferrata kit, along with a harness and a climbing helmet, and so on.
The same applies to your personal preferences. Some people like hiking with trekking poles, for example. So add to the list to suit you and your plans. And then enjoy your first overnight stay in a mountain hut! 🙂
Also of interest:
> Tips for learning mountaineering
> The most beautiful long-distance hiking trails in the Alps
> Bernina Trek: Spectacular hut-to-hut hike in Graubünden