gear for tour du mont blanc

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Tour du Mont Blanc packing list

One of the most important factors in preparing for the TMB is considering in detail your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. With a recommended pack weight of no more than 10kg, trust me every ounce matters. Lightweight has never been so literal. Packing the essentials is crucial – anything else could well be the straw that broke the camel’s back.

Of course many Tour du Mont Blanc hikers choose to ferry bigger bags along the route with luggage transfer companies, of which there are many. So for those of you where minimal packing is just not feasible, luggage transfers will be your knight in shining armour and in this case your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list might be a little more luxurious than the norm. Note though that not all refuges, understandably on this high altitude terrain, are accessible to vehicles – so there will always be days when your day pack is all you will have access to for a couple of days. Another factor is cost. Luggage transfers ain’t cheap.

Our Tour du Mont Blanc packing list includes trekking kit, refuge essentials, safety inclusions and first aid requirements. Many of the items on are our packing list, most serious hiker will already own. However, we’d serious urge you to consider upgrading any existing kit to more lightweight versions to lighten your load on your TMB – don’t underestimate the elevation gain on the Tour du Mont Blanc. It’s serious. When you’re hiking your second 1000m col in one day, you’ll be wishing you hadn’t brought along that newly released novel from your favourite author!

Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List

Weight restriction.

I’ll say this again, just in case you didn’t get it the first time. Your packing list for the Tour du Mont Blanc needs to be restricted to the absolute minimum. Just essentials. Unless you’re intending to arrange luggage transfers, you’ll be carrying all your kit on your back. 

Every single step. 

NO DAY PACK SHOULD BE OVER 10KG WHEN TREKKING THE TOUR DU MONT BLANC

With an average of 7-9 hours on the trail each day combined with serious daily elevation gain (the whole TMB trail is 1km higher than Everest!) anything superfluous is going to become dead weight. 

You need to be strict. 

Don’t underestimate how much even 1kg will add to your pack weight. I packed three times, pairing down repeatedly until the barebones of the essentials lay before me. It’s not easy! And I still definitely took more than I wished I had once I was on the trail.

The photo above is all of our gear and equipment for three of us (2 adults, 1 child) for hiking half the Tour du Mont Blanc in July.

Below I’ve detailed what essential items you’ll absolutely need to take with you on your Tour du Mont Blanc hike, as well as a complete packing list below. There are a few items that you may not have thought of.

The right gear

There’s no such thing as bad weather right. Only bad gear.

My first advice is to get the right gear. The Tour du Mont Blanc is challenging enough without being ill equipped and poor quality outerwear and kit will be enough to break you. Invest wisely in the main piece of kit. Numbers 1 and 2 being footwear and backpack.

You will require a 25-30 litre backpack with chest straps and hip straps if you aim to stay in refuges. Hikers camping the TMB will need a 50-60 litre pack.

Children will need to carry their own (smaller) backpacks. Make sure kids have proper backpacks with comfortable straps, not the plastic ones which don’t have the all important chest and hip straps.

If you’re buying a new backpack specifically for your TMB adventure, make sure you test it out beforehand. It’s a good idea to train with all the kit you’ll be using on the trek, so my advice is to buy your backpack at least 3 months before so you can wear it during your training hikes. It will soften and become more comfortable over time and you’ll know your way round it well before you embark on the TMB.

If you are buying a new backpack, look for one with an in-built rain cover. It will save you having to buy a separate one or having to take thick black bin liners to cover your pack in the event of rain on the trail. We can’t recommend Osprey backpacks enough.

Layering is vital to staying comfortable on the Tour du Mont Blanc. Layering brings versatility so you can easily adapt your clothing to changing weather conditions on the route. You need to be insulated, ventilated and have wet weather protection – all with minimum weight!

Choose  synthetic quick drying fabrics  over cotton. These will wick away sweat and will dry faster should you get wet, plus they’re much lighter. 

RELAXING IN THE REFUGES Make sure you take a change of clothes dedicated to refuge only use. You won’t want to put back on a sweaty, damp top or use one of your fresh technical hiking tees. Once you’ve reached the refuge, you’ll want to shower and change pronto. A great tip is to use a pair of thermals to relax and sleep in. That way they’ll be in your bag should you hit cold, wet weather and need to quickly layer up.

You’ll need a  good waterproof jacket  and trousers, as well as a fleece that packs down well. Pack 1-2 pairs of hiking sh o rts (I’d recommend 1 pair of shorts & 1 pair of zip off hiking trousers) and 2-3 technical hiking t-shirts.

Waterproof jacket

A good quality waterproof, breathable, windproof jacket is worth it’s weight in gold …. if it’s lightweight. I favour Arcteryx but yes they cost the earth! Anything gortex is going to keep you dry.

Make sure it’s lightweight – the temperatures on the Tour du Mont Blanc can hit 30 degrees even in the high mountains so it might well just be buried in your backpack the entire time, unless your summiting one of the cols and then you might need it as it tends to get chilly. However, bad weather can sweep through the mountains quickly. In the summer the weather system change in the afternoons with storms quickly brewing. It’s best to always set off early and try to get to your refuge early to mid afternoon to avoid the storms.

Other seasoned TMB hikers swear by packing a lightweight collapsible umbrella or a hiking poncho also works well if the weather forecast is looking dubious for some of your hike. Decathlon do cheap ones that work well.

Never scrimp on socks. Your feet are key to the TMB. 

Prepare them. Protect them.

Buy good quality wool blend socks and pack enough to enable you to have a clean, dry pair everyday. Obviously if you’re doing the whole trek, you’ll need to wash some along the way, but make sure you have at least 4-5 pairs of socks. Keeping feet dry and warm is pivotal in preventing blisters. Something you want to avoid at all costs! 

We’ve also recently discovered the amazing  1000 mile sock range.  This brand are big into anti-blister technology and their ingenious double sock system is perfect for long distance treks.  Double-layer socks can  prevent blisters  by reducing friction and wicking away moisture. The inner sock stays with the foot whilst the outer foot moves with the shoe to eliminate friction with the skin. 

Tour du Mont Blanc footwear

(i) hiking boots.

You will need good quality hiking boots to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc. Don’t even think about doing it in trainers, although some on the trail swear by trail running shoes which are built for impact, however still run the risk of ankle injury.

Boots should have good ankle support, a sturdy vibram like sole and be waterproof.

I’ve trekked this trail in my trusty Danner hiking boots  (read my review here)  which are good for warm weather hiking, although not massively waterproof. I was lucky and the weather was kind to us during our TMB trek, however I could have been slopping around with wet feet if the weather hadn’t played ball.

I’ve also worn a pair Salomon hiking boots which were super lightweight and waterproof which I can highly recommend.  Read my review here .

Invest in a good pair of hiking boots for your children too. I know it’s costly. Kids are costly full stop right. And boy those small feet just keep growing. But seriously for the Tour du Mont Blanc your kids will need comfortable, well supported and broken in boots. Make sure they are well worn in before setting off – your dream of trekking through the Alps with your family will certainly become a nightmare if not. Comfortable footwear is a must. Try picking up kids hiking boots in the sales at the end of summer or after Christmas six months before doing the trek. Remember to size up one size.

(ii) Flip flops or refuge slippers

One of the rules in the refuges is that hiking boots are kept in the boot room or allocated area. This is regardless of whether they are muddy or not. The refuge provides indoor shoes for hikers to where inside the refuge. These are normally crocs and they provide a variety of sizes.

If you don’t wish to use the inside shoes the refuge will provide then bring with you something suitable which will be lightweight & comfortable, for example flip flops or light shoes. I’m never too fussed about wearing the crocs, even if they have been used by lots of people (I’d rather save weight in my back) but my 65 year old mother baulked at the idea & brought along a pair of soft shoes.

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are essential for the Tour du Mont Blanc. Don’t even think about setting off without any. The extreme elevation gain and loss along the route is severe. Hiking poles will be your friend trust me.

The extra weight trekking poles offset from your knees and leg muscles is significant . Studies suggest that you can save up to 25% of energy using hiking poles. Who knows if that’s true. What is true is that people generally love or hate them. 

When you have a heavy back pack on, trekking poles definitely help you keep your balance on uneven terrain, and having two extra anchor points is extremely helpful crossing streams or to keep your balance on a slippery patch of remaining snow (called névé ) on the trail. 

It’s also proven that using hiking poles prevents hand swelling. The position of poles (keeping your hands above the heart) and the action of using the poles keep your arms moving constantly thus reducing swelling.

Collapsible hiking poles are the best for long distance trekking. They pack up nice and small & can be strapped onto your backpack when not in use. Using poles constantly can be annoying when you want to take a photo or eat a snack whilst walking for instance. 

Which hiking poles would we recommend?  Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles  are excellent quality, super durable and really lightweight. The Black Diamond Distance Z poles are made from aluminium so are a bit more hardy (& less expensive) than their carbon equivalent the  Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z .  I used Black Diamond Pro Trail trekking poles You can  read my review here .

I would definitely recommend the  Black Diamond First Strike trekking poles  for children. Don’t buy them the expensive ones above. I bought a pair for my daughter locally in Chamonix (but you can buy them at a fraction of the cost on Amazon, see link above). These are brilliant value (compared to the price of adult poles!) and she loved them. They are lightweight (431g) aluminium poles with comfortable hand grips, very durable (very important with kids who thwack anything) and available in lengths 66-100cm. My daughter really felt the part on our TMB adventure with her new poles and I’m confident that it’s partly due to them that she managed to make it around the trail!

Hiking Crampons

Better to be safe than sorry, particularly if you’re hiking the TMB trail in June or July. Hiking crampons were a must for us trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc mid July. It might seem slightly over the top but trust me, it’s not.

Crampons are lightweight, so won’t add too much weight to your pack and will give you confidence, along with your trekking poles, to cross slippery patches of snow left from winter on the high mountain cols which can be fatal from a simple slip.

We bought  Grivel Ran Crampons  which worked a treat. They were easy to pop on over your hiking boot with wide rubber and velcro straps that secure the crampons nicely to your boot. We would highly recommend them. Buy the small pair for kids (my daughter was a UK size 4 & the small was an okay fit for her).

Sleeping Bag Liner

In all the mountain huts on the Tour du Mont Blanc trail, sleeping bag liners are mandatory. Either take your own or you can normally rent one for around €3 a night (check when you book).

Each refuge bed comes with a mattress (& sheet), a duvet and a pillow case with cover, however the linen will not have been washed since the last trekker so a sleeping bag liner is essential and warning, you will not be allowed to stay without one.

I always prefer to take my own and have a  RAB silk sleeping bag liner  (expensive but worth it – it’s so light you don’t even know you’re carrying it, plus silk is so comfortable to sleep in).

Read my review of RAB’s silk sleeping bag liner here.

It’s worth noting that cotton sleeping bag liners, whilst cheaper, are considerably heavier and so, particularly for the Tour du Mont Blanc, I would HIGHLY advise you to buy a silk liner.  Anything to streamline your trek as much as possible. Trust me, you’ll thank me for it later!

If you are camping along the Tour du Mont Blanc trail, you’re going to be needing obviously some extra kit. Choose your tent  with care. It needs to be as lightweight as you can afford. Remember you’ll be carrying it for 8-10 hours a day! Choose a good quality tent that will be robust enough to withstand any bad weather.

ELECTRONICS

Most of the refuges have electricity sockets to charge phones etc, however they are highly in demand! We suggest you bring a USB multi socket charger which will enable to you still charge your phone even if all the sockets are being used!

I would also advise bringing a power bank with you. Admittedly they do add to your weight but these handy, pocket sized gadgets will guarantee a fully charged phone which is a safety must on the Tour du Mont Blanc, to be able to track the trail on an off-line app such as Gaia to prevent getting lost, or in the event of an emergency to call mountain rescue.

Read more: why the Gaia GPS app is a godsend to hikers navigating the TMB

Read more: 10 safety tips to know before embarking on the Tour du Mont Blanc

(i) Passport

Don’t forget as you’re trekking into three different countries you’ll need to pack your passport in your backpack. Whilst the borders aren’t controlled officially with border guards on the high mountain cols, you still need to keep it on you.

(ii) Insurance

Make sure your travel insurance covers you for high altitude trekking. For many standard policies hiking is only covered up to 2,000 metres. The highest point on the TMB is on the Col des Fours and Fenêtre d’Arpette alternative routes which both reach an altitude of 2665m. The highest point on the traditional route is 2532m on the Grand Col Ferret.

When seeking insurance you will need to state what elevation you will be hiking up to. In most policies hiking to this kind of altitude will require an additional premium and maybe labelled ‘adventure sports’. If you have an annual travel insurance, call them to find out what you’re covered for – it’s important. Don’t even consider embarking on the TMB without travel insurance! 

The Tour du Mont Blanc is not without it’s risks. Some of the trail is precipitous and if snow is on the trail, some areas can be difficult to negotiate with steep falls below. Note: if the thought of this scares you, make sure you hike the TMB in late Summer (end of July and August) when the snow patches (névé) have mostly melted.

Remember, something as simple as a sprained ankle may require you to be lifted out by helicopter. It’s at this point you don’t want to be worrying that your insurance might not cover you! Helicopter rescue is not cheap in the Alps!

For cheap multi-risk sport insurance which includes trekking take a look at  Vieux Camper . It’s €25 per person or €70 for a family.

OUR COMPLETE TOUR DU MONT BLANC PACKING LIST

HIKING THE TRAIL

• hiking shorts x 1
• walking trousers x 1
• T-shirts x 3
• wool socks x 4-5
• waterproof jacket
• waterproof trousers
• fleece (that packs down well)
• thermal top & bottoms (can double as pyjamas)
• neck warmer/scarf
• hiking boots (well worn in)
• 30-35l backpack (or 50-60l if camping)
• trekking poles
• hiking crampons (if early in season)
• gaitors (if bad weather due)
• water bottle/camel pac (1.5-2.0l capacity)
• rucksack rain cover (if not built in)
• snacks/emergency food (biltong, nuts, chocolate, trail bars, real turmac)

FOR THE REFUGES 

• sleeping attire (thermal top & bottoms)
• bed socks (optional luxury)
• fleece or down jacket (packs down well)
• beanie/warm hat
• a change of clothes to relax in (thermal top & bottoms)
• flip flops (if don’t want to use the refuge crocs)
• sleeping bag liner (recommend silk)
• phone charger (USB multi-charger recommended
• travel towel

SAFETY 

• whistle (for each member of group, including children)
• foil blanket
• first aid kit (see below)

FIRST AID KIT

• antiseptic wipes
• antiseptic cream
• gauze & medical tape
• scissors & tweezers
• triangular bandage
• Compeed blister plasters
• arnica oil (for massaging aching legs & feet)
• anti – inflammatories (abrufen)
• pain killers (paracetamol/in france doliprane )
• rehydration salt sachets (we like dioralyte)
• kinesiology tape (to relieve pressure & pain)
• lip salve (SPF 50+)
• suncream (SPF 50+)
• toothbrush & travel sized toothpaste
• Any prescription medicine
• Foot salve (we like Scholls)
• Soap (we like a bar of soap)
• Travel size shampoo/conditioner

MISCELLANEOUS

• selection of ziplock bags (to keep things dry)
• large durable bin liner (if you need a cheap rain cover)
• small binoculars (optional)
• small foot massage ball (recommended optional luxury)
• packing cubes (to keep organised & reduce volume)
• waterproof map case
• book or kindle
• gaffer tape wrapped around a small pencil (great for preventing blisters if you feel friction

TIP: Packing cubes whilst not essential do make life super easy, particularly when you’re tired arriving at your refuge. Keep one cube just for your refuge stuff (relaxing/sleeping clothes, sleeping bag liner, head torch, eye mask, ear plugs, toiletries) and another for hiking clothes. Packing cubes make organisation in your backpack simple.

Further Reading...

RAB silk sleeping bag liner review

16 comments.

Well organised list of requirements. Thank you for sharing. Your experience shown through!

tourdumontblanchike

Thanks Doug. Enjoy the trek!

Thanks so much! Very helpful.

Material excelente. Muito obrigado

My dad and I plan to do the TMB next year. However, we are planning on wild camping for the duration. We aim to complete within 5-6 days, approx 15miles or so per day. What’s the approx. distance between each village to restock with food until the next one? I wouldn’t want to be carrying a weeks worth of food, so plan to restock along the trial. I tend to just have stuff that I can just add boiled water too. Water-wise, I’ll be relying mainly on streams etc using my water filter. Will flavor it when required using the SIS electrolyte tablets.

Hi Michael you’re actually not allowed to wild camp unless you are above 2500m in Italy and in Switzerland it is prohibited so in these countries you would need to stay in a proper campsite. France allows you to ‘bivouac’ from dusk to dawn so you can wild camp throughout the French sections. There is a bivvy spot next to Refuge Miage on variant stage 1, another one just after Refuge Nant Borrant on stage 2 as well as outside Refuge Le Balme on stage 2 and then a lovely wild spot just before the top of the Col de la Seigne on stage 3. Mid way through stage 9 you can camp at the top of Col de Balme and then just under Lac Blanc at Lac Cheserys (you cannot wild camp at Lac Blanc). I am not sure of the approximate mileage between each village. You can work that out from using one of the guidebooks. There is plenty of water on the trail however take extra water for stages 10 and 11.Best wishes. Mags

Can you please recommend a store in Chamonix who rents collapsible hiking poles?

Hi Scott, SNELL SPORTS on the main pedestrian road Rue Dr Paccard rents poles (downstairs), or RAVENEL SPORTS near the Alpina Centre (downstairs). TECHNIQUE EXTREME is a cheap sports shop near the Aiguille du Midi (on Avenue Aiguille du Midi) – I’m sure they also rent poles.

A great article and a thorough list to walk MB. I have already added a couple of items to my list when I will finally get to walk MB in July 2023 after being cancelled in 2020 because of Covid. One other item; Your comment that studies have shown that using hiking poles “suggest that you can save up to 25% of energy using hiking pole” is an incorrect statement. One doesn’t “save” energy when using trekking pole; they simply allow a hiker to use their shoulder and upper body muscles to push off while reducing the leg muscles. The TMB is a physical challenge so using trekking poles to spread the work load is vital to success. Don’t leave home without them!

Absolutely Alan. Thanks for your input – you are absolutely correct, thanks for adding this. Have a fantastic trek in July – it will be worth the wait!

Thanks for this great article that really helps figuring out how feasible the TMB is.

Most of the articles I’ve been reading refer to the month of July as the month when the hike happened. Any idea of how is it in September when compared to July?

Hi Norberto. The trail opens on 14 June each year until September. Mid June to the first week of July normally has snow on the trail so extra precautions are necessary. I would say now July, August and the beginning of September are now peak season. Many of the refuges close mid September but I’ve noticed many are staying open longer. September is a great time to trek – I often trek solo in September as the weather is more settled (none of those broody afternoon thunderstorms of the summer) and there are less people on the trail.

Do you need protection from rodents etc for your food ans scented items while backpacking and tent camping along TMB

Hi Cathy. Not particularly no I’ve never used anything and its never been a problem. Have a great trek!

Hi, Thank you for the details and very well written article! My son & me are traveling to do partial TMB from Les Houches to Courmayeur in 6 days. starting at Jun 11 until Jun 16. My son will be 13 year old, what is the recommend weight for him to carry? when will be the time to book for refuge?

Thanks in advance! Yehuda

Hi Yehuda June 11- 16th is VERY EARLY to trek. The trail hasn’t officially opened at this point. Have you read my latest post on trekking early? https://tourdumontblanchike.com/trekking-the-tour-du-mont-blanc-in-june/ Many people don’t realise there is still snow on the trail in June. I would not be trekking with my 13 year old so early. My daughter had an 18l backpack when she hiked at ages 10 and 11. He could probably carry one a bit bigger say a 24l. We say no more than 10kg for an adult so you can use your judgement here. There refuges are beginning to open now for 2024 reservations. If you would like more advice and help on planning I offer zoom consultations. As I said I would not be trekking during June 11-16th. Best wishes. Mags

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Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List: What to Pack for the TMB (+ What to Ditch!)

Last Updated: June 25, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith 6 Comments

I’ve curated a Tour du Mont Blanc packing list for myself three times for three different styles of adventure. I’ve packed for hiking the TMB solo, hiking with a friend, and most recently as a solo member of a guided hiking group . Let’s just say… I know a thing or two because I’ve packed a thing or two.

In this post you’ll find my complete recommended Tour du Mont Blanc packing list along with important tips, the must-haves, and all the things you really don’t need at all. If you’d like a printable, check-off-able version, you can get it for free below. Happy packing!

TMB Packing List 2024

Table of Contents

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: What to keep in mind

This Tour du Mont Blanc packing list contains all the things I recommend after having packed for the TMB three times now. However, the list will vary for you depending on what kind of hike you’ll be taking.

Your hiking style

For instance, I utilized luggage transfer on my latest TMB hike because I like to hike smarter, not harder. If you will be carrying all your stuff with you the entire time, you’ll need some slight variations (which I’ll point out.) If you’ll be camping, you’ll need a lot of variations which I cannot help you with at this needing-a-proper-shower point in my life.

Your hiking timeline

This list is, however, good for any number of days on the trail. Whether you’ll be taking 12 days to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc or 6, this list will cover you.

Your personal preference

Keep in mind that personal preference and need greatly factors into what will ultimately be on your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. For instance, I’m a dainty little female so if you’re a male hiker your list might be quite different.  

Your hygiene needs may differ from mine as may your comfort levels, abilities, and other requirements. That’s perfectly okay! Use this Tour du Mont Blanc packing list as a baseline guide and amend it to your specific needs.

Read also: 10 Myths About Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc You Need to Forget Right Now!

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Important tips

Regardless of your hiking or packing style, there are most definitely a handful of important tips that you should remember when formulating your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.

As light a pack as possible

For starters, the #1 goal is to keep your pack as light as possible. Whatever you decide to bring on your hike, always remember this. Even going to extremes if necessary.

The lighter your pack, the more you’ll enjoy hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc. I cannot stress this enough as a too-heavy pack is what ultimately led me to quit the TMB in 2019 after one day.

I mean it when I say weigh. every. item. Every single ounce counts when it’s all combined and you’re carrying it on your back. What may feel alright when you pick it up and put it on will feel like carrying a Mack truck after just 30 minutes of turtle-ing it uphill.

Personally, I used a kitchen scale and weighed every single thing I wanted to pack for my TMB hike. Then I got rid of every single thing that wasn’t absolutely necessary.

Then, to prep for my hike, I filled my bag with that much weight and wore my backpack around the house for WEEKS. Literally, to the bathroom, while I made lunch, up and down the stairs, to the mailbox, everywhere. Only then will you be able to appreciate the need to scrape every possible ounce.

Even if you’re planning to utilize luggage transfer for your hike, still keep it to a minimum. These companies still impose bag and weight restrictions and you really won’t want to bother with a bunch of unnecessary crap in the refuges anyway.

Prioritize things with multiple uses

Concentrate on packing only things that can double as other things. And don’t bring anything you’re only going to use once.

For example, instead of packing a headband, a bandana, ear muffs, and a scarf, pack a single neck buff instead. This one virtually weightless item can be used as all of those things (and more). I use this fun mountain-themed buff from the outdoor adventure experts at Baïst .

Instead of bringing a travel cutlery set (I have this one ), bring an all-in-one utensil (that’s also lightweight plastic instead of metal). You can find these on the register counter at the Intersport in Chamonix center.

Instead of bringing shampoo, conditioner, laundry detergent, soap, and toothpaste, you can simply bring one bottle of Dr. Bronner’s . It literally boasts itself as an “18-in-1” product. Now look, this solution is not for me personally, but I do know other TMB hikers who swear by this.

I personally use Dr. Bronner’s for laundry soap while traveling and also swear by it, but I still want to use separate products for toothpaste and hair conditioner. However, if you’re open to it, know that this is a highly recommended weight-saving solution! (I have the big bottle at home and refill the travel size before all my trips. Get both here .)

Basically, take a look at everything you want to bring, then think about which of those uses can be fulfilled by others. Time to get packing savvy!

For my non-packing TMB tips, check out this post on the best Tour du Mont Blanc tips you’ve never heard.

But still be prepared

Unfortunately, you will still have to bring stuff you might not use at all. However, if it means they can potentially keep you alive, they’re worth bringing!

Examples would be: certain pieces of winter gear, first aid kit, emergency supplies, etc. These are things you might not / probably won’t / hopefully will not need but that you should most definitely still add to your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. It sucks, yes, but it would suck even more to need these things and not have them.

During my latest TMB hike, it ended up being a record-setting European heat wave so I did not (even remotely) need the fleece jacket, the gloves, the beanie, or the hiking tights I brought. BUT, it’s important to remember that weather in the high mountains is dangerously unpredictable (even in the summer) so always take that into consideration.

I also never used my first aid kit (bless!) or my safety whistle or any of the medications I brought, but I definitely hiked easier knowing I had them. Never head out on a hike without these things! They’re the kinds of things you always need to bring but hope to never use.

Allow yourself a luxury

Even though the overall goal is to pack as light as possible, please feel free to allow yourself a luxury or two. Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc shouldn’t be a miserable experience.

If there’s something totally irrational that you still want to bring for whatever reason, do it. Understand that it means adding weight to your pack, but still bring it if you want; judgment be damned. (I brought mascara of all things and I have zero regrets.)

Also read: 21 Awesome Things to Do in Chamonix in the Summer for Your Alpine Bucket List

TMB packing list: The essentials

While everything in this Tour du Mont Blanc packing list is essential (because we’re only packing the essentials, remember?), there are indeed three most crucial items.

Choosing a hiking backpack for the Tour du Mont Blanc is a highly individual decision. It has to be comfortable and carry everything you need. It has to fit your body, your hiking style, and your budget. Figure all of this out, then go shopping.

When I was packing for my first and second Tour du Mont Blanc hike where I would be carrying everything for the entire hike, I used the Osprey Kyte 46 Women’s Backpacking Backpack . I love this bag. It fits my body perfectly and is extremely comfortable. It has pockets in all the right places, offers lots of accessibility, and is easy to use. Highly recommend.

For my latest TMB hike where I utilized luggage transfer, I needed only an adequate day pack-sized bag for the actual hike and a duffel for the other stuff. For my day pack I use this 25-liter backpack from REI (which comes in both women’s and men’s styles so pay attention).

I admit it’s a tad bigger than I what I needed/wanted, but it worked just fine. I also didn’t have that much to carry since it was so hot and I didn’t need the winter gear I had anticipated needing to carry each day. (The problem with a bigger bag is that it encourages you to pack/carry more.)

When I hike the TMB again, I will probably get something like this 16L daypack from Columbia or this 13L Osprey daypack instead.

For all the other stuff, I used a standard duffel bag like this one or this one . (The TMB luggage transfer companies ask that you use only soft duffel-style bags for easier transport.)

Hiking boots

Arguably the most important item on the Tour du Mont Blanc packing list is a great pair of hiking boots. To each his own but I highly recommend some solid hiking boots with ankle support because the trails here are anything but easy going.

Some people prefer to hike the TMB in trail runners or those weird FiveFinger Vibram things but I cannot even fathom this. For me, it’s classic mid-height hiking boots or bust (my ass).

I wear the Oboz Bridger BDry hiking boots and I LOVE them. I’ve hiked all over the world in these things and did so right out of the box. I never had to properly break them in or anything like that. They’re comfortable, heavy duty, and waterproof.

You can get them here for women and/or men:

• Women’s Oboz Bridger BDry – Zappos
• Men’s Oboz Bridger BDry – Zappos
• Zappos always has free fast shipping and free returns (without needing a membership or anything like that). They’re my go-to shoe shop. Just saying.
• They’re also available at REI in case you’re a Co-op member (like I am)

Hiking poles

First of all, trekking poles are life. They make SUCH a difference and I now swear by them. I will go more into this in another post, but just trust me here, you’ll want hiking poles.

There are varying degrees of hiking poles you can purchase. I’ve used some pretty pricey Black Diamond ones and I’ve used $20 poles too. And guess what? I can’t tell the difference. You do you though. Just get the poles.

The thing to remember though is that you can’t fly with hiking poles in your carry-on luggage. So unless you plan on checking your hiking bag for your flight to France, you’ll want to just pick up some poles in Chamonix.

I left my super expensive ones at home and simply picked up some cheap poles at the Intersport in Chamonix. I didn’t get the cheapest ones, but I paid around $20 each for mine. And I’ve hiked all over with them! I’ve taken them on many of the day hikes around Chamonix and used them for my complete Tour du Mont Blanc hike. No issues whatsoever.

Interested in a guided TMB hike? Check out the exact TMB group hike I joined here.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Hiking equipment

Beyond those three most important pieces of gear, here is the rest of the hiking equipment you’ll need for your ideal Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.

Water bladder / Hydration reservoir

Two liters is optimum. I use the Big Zip EVO from Platypus and love it. Staying hydrated on the TMB is so crucial and there are plenty of places to fill up. Depending on your route you could probably get away with just one liter, but I’m not risking ever being without water. (I drink a ton while I’m hiking.) This never leaks and makes it so easy to literally drink while hiking, hands free.

Refillable water bottle

Yes, you could always combine these two and just use a water bottle, but I use them for different things. And I drink a lot of water so I always have it with me. (I actually refer to it as my “emotional support water bottle.”)

The bladder I use to guzzle water while I’m actively hiking. The refillable water bottle I use at breakfast, at dinner, while lunching, while out exploring on my rest day in Courmayeur , and for filling with my Liquid IV packets. All things I can’t do with a backpack water bladder.

I use the ultra-cold insulated stainless steel Takeya water bottle . But there are definitely lighter weight options available. (Like this one or this one .) You could even buy a plastic water bottle (I know, sorry) from the airport and just keep refilling it.

Quick dry towel

Quick-dry, microfiber towels are always good to bring along in your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. The refuges and hotels all (for the most part) have towels for you to use. But maybe they’re too small, too few, or, in the case of one place I stayed, way, way too stinky. Having your own towel is never a bad idea.

Bring one medium-sized towel or a combination of sizes. (I use this multi-size 3-pack .) They dry quickly so you wash them when you need and pack them up the next morning without all the smell.

TMB guidebook

I’ve used both the “TMB Bible” (the Kev Reynolds TMB guidebook ) and the Knife Edge Outdoor Tour du Mont Blanc guide . I prefer the Knife Edge version, but you should check them both out to see which is right for you. (I also have the Knife Edge guide to day hikes around Chamonix too!)

Fun fact: While hiking the TMB in 2019, I actually ran into the author of the Knife Edge book on the trail! He spotted me using his guidebook and came over to say hi. I immediately asked him for two things: a selfie and directions.

Also check out: Tour du Mont Blanc Self-Guided Vs. Guided : How to choose which is best for YOU

Travel cutlery

Even if you’re not camping the TMB, you’ll still need utensils to eat with out on the trail. You can bring a dedicated travel cutlery set (like this one ), or take the economical route and pick up a lightweight all-in-one utensil, available here in a 6-pack (best deal) or as a single at the Intersport in Chamonix (about 3€ each).

I used mine every day for spreading peanut butter, cutting cheese, bread, and meat, eating canned foods, and more.

Safety whistle

It’s imperative that you bring along a safety whistle on the Tour du Mont Blanc (and any hike actually). Most hiking backpacks actually have a safety whistle built in which you might not even know about (usually on the chest buckle).

However, if you want something a little more powerful, pick up a dedicated safety whistle like this one. Also, know in advance how to use it. (Three sharp blasts for emergencies in the mountains. Watch this video for a quick lesson.)

Most hiking backpacks also come with a built-in rain cover—a waterproof pouch of sorts that secures around your backpack to keep everything in it dry.

Check the bottom pouch of your backpack to see if yours has one. If not, you can always pick up a separate backpack rain cover here .

Also read: Where to Find the Tour du Mont Blanc Sign in Les Houches and How to Get There

Sleeping bag liner

Sleeping bag liners are a must for your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. Literally, the refuges require that all hikers bring them. They provide pillows and comforters, but not sheets, so you need to bring your own. I use this sleeping bag liner from the Friendly Swede.

These are thin silk sheets you sleep in when sleeping in public places like refuges and other mountain huts. It’s like a sleeping bag that’s only a sheet. They fold up pretty small and aren’t too heavy.

Fun fact: The French word for sleeping bag liner translates to English as “meat bag.” So when you see “meat bag” as a requirement on a refuge website, this is what they’re talking about.

Dr. Bronner’s

I always bring along a small bottle of Dr. Bronner’s whenever I travel anywhere so I can wash things in the hotel sink. It works better than any other travel laundry detergent I’ve ever used and smells nice too. And yes, washing your hiking clothes nightly is an absolute MUST. Don’t miss this post on How to Wash Your Clothes on the Tour du Mont Blanc .

And as I’ve said, you can also use it to wash your hair and body, brush your teeth, and a whole bunch of other things I haven’t attempted yet.

Also check out my full travel guide to visiting Chamonix In the Summer , the perfect Alpine escape.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Clothing

Note here that what clothing you add to your personal Tour du Mont Blanc packing list will largely be dependent on weather and time of year. My latest TMB hike in 2022 was during a record heat wave in late July. In 2019 I just about froze every night in August.

The weather in the mountains is notoriously unpredictable. Come prepared for all situations but keep it reasonable too. For me, I was using luggage transfer which meant I really only had to rely on the weather report for each day and could leave behind all the stuff I was sure to not need.

Bring at least 2 short-sleeve hiking tops and 2 long-sleeve hiking tops . (Even during the heat wave I wore the long-sleeved tops over my tank tops every day to keep the sun off.) This way, you can wash the one you hiked in at night and put on a new one the next day in case it isn’t finished drying.

I typically wear Under Armour workout tops but I also love Columbia’s short-sleeve and long-sleeve active tops as well.

Bring 2 tops for non-hiking activities . Things like hanging out in the hotels/refuges, meals, sleeping only, airplane rides, etc.

If you prefer shorts, bring 2 pairs of hiking shorts . If you prefer pants, bring 2 pairs of hiking pants . Many hikers prefer convertible hiking pants (this these or these ) so you can have pants + shorts in one garment. I brought two pairs of shorts and a pair of hiking tights I never wore because it was way too hot.

I wear these “yoga” shorts for hiking which are very comfortable and even have pockets. But I know most people prefer to hike in traditional hiking pants or shorts .

Bring 2 pairs of non-hiking pants to sleep in, wear to meals, wear out in town during your rest day, etc. I have this pair of light, fleece-lined leggings that I wear religiously. I’m even wearing them as I type this. However, it was often way too hot in our unconditioned lodging to even think about pants so at dinner I simply wore the pair of clean hiking shorts I was going to wear the next day.

Ladies, bring 2 sports bras and rotate them. Wash the one you hiked in each night, wear the other one the next day while the other one finishes drying. (FWIW, I have found Under Armour sports bras to be far superior to other brands.)

Everyone, bring underwear . Personally, my underwear are small, barely-there affairs (TMI?) so I opt for bringing a clean pair for each day of the hike because they don’t weigh very much. Others will recommend you bring a few pairs and wash them regularly. I don’t want to do that. You do you.  

What outwear to pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc is a real toughie. There are so many variables here. On one hand, you want to be prepared for all weather. On the other, you really don’t want to have to carry around a heavy fleece if there’s going to be a surprise heat wave.

The best advice I can give is to follow the weather as closely to leaving for your trip as possible and compromise. Instead of a heavy fleece, maybe consider a light windbreaker and a packable down jacket . Or an extra light layer or two.

I brought a light down jacket and a fleece , neither of which I wore during my TMB. I also had my rain jacket which works as an excellent wind breaker, so I simply wore that on the windiest parts. My TMB experience was not the norm though.

Also crucial for your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list is a lightweight rain jacket and rain pants . The majority of my hikes have been dry and sunny but friends of mine have hiked the TMB is torrential downpours. How. Horrible.

My husband and I have both the Columbia rain jacket and Columbia rain pants and wear them all the time. They are super lightweight and take up very little space. And I can pull them both on over my clothes in a hurry for those surprise showers.

Hiking socks

Bring 3 pairs of hiking socks and do not skimp on these. Yes, they can be pricey, but WOW are they worth it. The health and happiness of your feet on the TMB is vital! Treat those puppies with respect.

Dress them in Darn Tough hiking socks and nothing less. They’re the most comfortable and most reliable hiking socks out there. They’re guaranteed for life. You won’t regret this purchase. Shop Darn Tough on Zappos , Amazon , or REI .

Besides your hiking boots, bring 1 other pair of shoes to wear for all of your non-hiking activities. Going to meals, hanging out at the refuges, walking through town, etc. These can be simple flip-flops, lightweight sneakers, or something in between.

Personally, I always travel with a pair of Chacos . They’re comfortable and versatile, they dry quickly, and I can even hike in them if I want to give my boots a break for a day. (Yes, they actually are “hiking sandals!”) Tevas are another hiking fan favorite.

• Shop Chacos here on Zappos or here on Amazon .
• Shop Tevas here on Zappos or here on Amazon .

Other accessories

Also for your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list:

• Something to keep your ears warm – a beanie or headband. Even during the heat wave, there were times I wore mine because of the wind.
• Gloves – There’s nothing worse than frigid digits! I didn’t use mine but again, that’s not the norm. I’m still glad I had them. I use these thin glove liners instead of packing heavy gloves with me.
• Hat – either a baseball cap style or a sun hat is crucial. You’ll be highly elevated and exposed on the TMB and that sun is no joke. Save your skin, save your pupils, wear a hat!
• Sunglasses – an absolute must if you plan to look at anything on your hike. Always go for polarized .
• Buff – for all kinds of uses as illustrated earlier. Plus, they can also keep dirt and bugs out of your face and the sun off your neck.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Electronics

The big focus here is to keep electronics to a minimum since they tend to weigh a lot. But we’re not exactly off-the-grid kinda hikers here so there are still a few things you’ll need.

European outlet adapter

Because this is Europe, you’ll need to add an outlet adapter to your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list so you can charge your devices. Go for something small like these so save space and weight.

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc is going to be one of the most insanely gorgeous adventures you’ll ever take. Yes, you’ll want to document this even though the photos will never be able to these scenes justice.

Some love hiking with full camera gear because of this, and more power to them. If cameras weighed nothing, I would do the same. Instead, I used my cell phone as my camera and brought along a small point-and-shoot for when I needed a zoom lens. (But I used my cell for about 98% of the photos and video I took.)

I use a Google Pixel which takes fantastic pictures. If you want to use your phone as your TMB camera, you may need to upgrade depending on how old your phone is. Just saying.

If you do opt for a classic digital camera, make sure it has a big ol’ SD card inside because you’re going to be taking a ridiculous number of photos.

Phone and charger

And yes, you’ll want to bring along your phone and its charger. While I highly recommend leaving that thing in airplane mode until you absolutely need it, you should still always have a way to communicate, call for help, use as a flashlight, sound an alarm, and about 1,000 other things cell phones can do now.

Charge this every night or at every opportunity. Leave it in airplane mode both to save battery life and to stay the hell away from whatever is happening back in the real world that does not have any bearing on your life on the TMB. Ah, bliss.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Health & hygiene

This part of the Tour du Mont Blanc packing list will be highly subjective, so simply use my list as a general suggestion of what to bring on your hike.

Rehydration packets

On my hot hike in 2022 I must have sweat gallons every single day. I drank a lot of water, but I also made sure to replenish my electrolytes every day. Everyone has their favorites, but I love Liquid IV for this.

Liquid IV comes in tons of flavors (my favorites are passion fruit and açaí berry ), doesn’t weigh much, and is great for rehydrating on the trail.

Trail snacks

Again, totally up to you what you bring for this. On the Tour du Mont Blanc you’ll have a great breakfast and dinner each night, while lunch may be up to you. It also helps to bring snacks along in case you get hungry, for some added energy, or in case it’s longer ‘til dinner than you planned.

Even though there are healthier alternatives, I usually bring along Clif Bars . I like the way they taste and they have flavors I (as someone with nut allergies) can actually eat. Other popular options are Kind bars , beef jerky, and trail mix.

I also bring a long a small thing of peanut butter on my hikes. Lots of protein, adds flavor to simple things like bread and crackers, and tastes great. (Pro tip, get the squeezable kind if you can find it!)

Medications

Prescription medicine – Don’t forget to bring whatever prescription medicine you’re taking and only bring as much as you need plus a little extra in case of emergencies. This includes things like Epi-pens that may be so commonplace in your life that you may even forget to add them to your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.

Over the counter meds – There are a few useful OTC medications worth bringing. (Note: I’m not licensed to prescribe medication, I’m just a girl who gets sick all the time while traveling making suggestions.) Things like:

• Pain relievers and headache meds
• Itch creams
• Stomach meds like Pepto (chewables, not liquid), Imodium , or Tums if you anticipate tummy troubles
• Benadryl or other if you have allergies (though the French “Zyrtec” I got in Chamonix is far superior to regular ol’ American Zyrtec!)
• Whatever else you typically use – Pepcid AC , vitamins, etc. – but do know that if you forget something you’ll probably be able to find an alternative at the pharmacies in the bigger cities on the trail.

This is a big one! There’s so much dangerous sun exposure on the Tour du Mont Blanc and you’re in it for so many hours a day. Getting a sunburn could wreck the quality of your TMB experience so do your best to prevent it.

I personally brought a regular sized bottle of sunscreen from home and a small travel sized bottle too. Each day I refilled the travel sized bottle to keep in my day pack so I could reapply all the live-long day.

Also, do not forget SPF lip balm . Bring your own or pick some up in Chamonix before your hike. Either way, use it often.

Small first aid kit

You don’t need to go overboard here, but it’s always smart to have a small first aid kit on your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. You can pick up a prepared travel version like this one, or put together one of your own. If you go this route, make sure to include:

• Bandages and an antibacterial cream like Neosporin
• Moleskin or something else for blisters
• Safety pins
• Gauze and medical tape
• Antiseptic wipes

Your everyday hygiene products

This list is largely up to you, but here’s a general idea of what to pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Small bar of soap – you can even cut a regular size bar in half
• Face wash, moisturizer, whatever else you use
• Small bottle of hand sanitizer
• Small toilet paper roll – in case you need to go in the wild or if somewhere you go doesn’t have any (not unheard of).
• Hair brush and ponytail holders (I use these super light soft ones that won’t kill your hair)
• Contact solution, extra contact lenses, case, glasses, eye drops
• Feminine products
• Disposable face masks just in case (During my TMB I still had to wear masks in some places in Italy. You’ll probably also have to wear them if you find yourself needing medical care at all.)
• Extra Ziplock bags – These can be used for all sorts of things: carrying trash, carrying food, picking stuff up, keeping things dry, etc.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Travel essentials

And we mustn’t forget the regular stuff you need for travel of all kinds, not just hiking trips. To complete your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list, do not forget:

• Your passport
• Money and credit cards
• Your CDC vaccination card – you probably won’t need it, but better to have it anyway
• Ink pen + some form of entertainment
• Ear buds for the plane/your phone
• Ear plugs for sleeping in the refuges or next to hiking partners you just met
• And some sort of small purse or fanny pack to carry your essentials in when you’re not on the trail. I love a good fanny pack for this!

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: optional

The following are a few things that are optional to bring if, say, you have enough room in your bag, really need them, are using luggage transfer, or just want to bring them.

If you’ll be hiking alone and still want great photos of yourself on this stunning hike, bring along a small tripod. I have this one that is used for cell phones and it’s small and super lightweight (and can be wrapped around trees and more). Something like this is another option.

Foot massage ball

I packed this for all three of my TMB attempts but never actually used it. I guess because my Oboz hiking boots are so perfect, I never felt the need for an extra little foot luxury during my hike. If you tend to get foot fatigue, this foot massage ball is pretty light.

Again, I brought this container of Biofreeze on my TMB but never actually needed it. By some miracle* I never had any sore muscles the entire time but the girl I was sharing a room with certainly got some use out of it. Note: The roll-on and gel forms of Biofreeze only contain 4% menthol while the cream contains more than twice that at 10%. Opt for cream, duh.

*Ahem, four years of trial and error, smart packing, and lots of physical preparation.

If you have knee troubles, the TMB will surely cause you some stress. These knee braces are lightweight but really help offer support.

Comfy bed socks

This one is just a small luxury that doesn’t weigh a lot and has no other purpose but coziness and comfort. Your feet are doing all the work, they deserve to be pampered. Wear these only around your room after you’ve showered.

Bathing suit

There are plenty of swimming holes along the TMB (but not all bodies of water permit swimming, so please pay attention!). There are also pools, hot tubs, and spas to be found. I have a few of the suits by Cupshe and really like them.

Backpack travel cover

If you’ll be checking your hiking pack on your flight, I highly recommend getting a backpack travel cover . It bundles your hiking pack up nicely so there aren’t a ton of swinging straps and buckles that could get caught on things and break. It also accommodates locks so the contents of your pack will be safe while en route.  

Depending on what time of year you’ll hike the TMB and the current weather conditions, you may need to consider a pair of crampons . They’re not exactly lightweight but they are crucial in snow and icy weather (and things like climbing the Aiguille du Midi ). Big time safety piece right here!

Covid tests

There’s always a small chance you’ll need to take a covid test sometime during your trip. This depends on the rules where you’re going and where you’re coming from, the situation at the moment, your risk level, and other factors. It doesn’t hurt to add some super small and lightweight covid tests to your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list if you think you’ll need them.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: What NOT to bring

Even though keeping your pack as light as possible is the ultimate goal, it’s still so easy to over pack. Lucky for you, I’ve brought along tons of stuff I didn’t need so you don’t have to. Here’s what you can leave off your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list:

This greatly depends though. If you are hiking with a guide/as a group , you won’t need a power bank . You can charge your phone every night in your accommodation. If you are hiking alone or will be camping, this is much more necessary! Otherwise, it’s way too heavy and just not needed.

Book or Kindle

I brought a book thinking I would read it at night or while relaxing. That definitely did not happen. I never opened it. Instead, I was either talking to other hikers, people in my group, or passing out cold. Instead, pack a handful of crossword puzzles or something else lightweight to bring on the plane and avoid bringing along big books or heavy electronics.

Bug repellent

Plain and simple, you will not need bug repellent on the TMB. There was only one day when there were a bunch of annoying gnats on the trail, but nothing that was biting or stinging. Otherwise, I have never encountered a single mosquito or really anything else at all.

Unless you’ll be hiking alone or camping, you really don’t need a headlamp. We have flashlights on our cell phones for when you need to see around the refuge at night. Only bring a headlamp if you think you’ll be out in the darkness for a good amount of time. With a guide or hiking group, you’ll arrive to your accommodation with plenty of sunlight left.

Binoculars are great for wildlife spotting, but they’re heavy and bulky. My point-and-shoot camera has a 50x zoom lens which is actually more than my binoculars. So whenever I wanted to see animals far away, I just used my camera. This is another example of avoiding packing redundancy.

Water filter

There is so much fresh, clean, and cold water available along the Tour du Mont Blanc. This goes for refuges, towns, and random water sources along the trail. There should (hopefully) never be a time when you’ll need to drink out of streams or anything.

Sock liners

Even though I have them and brought them and wore them, I’m still not really sure the point of sock liners . I think they’re supposed to help with blisters? If this is something that affects you, perhaps you will want to look into this. Otherwise, my sock liners were just something annoying I had to deal with unnecessarily.

Tour du Mont Blanc packing list: Adjustments

What you have in this list is what I brought, as someone who hiked with a guided group and utilized luggage transfer. If you are not hiking this way, you’ll want to pack a little differently. For instance…

If you are not using bag transfer:

• Bring just a simple pair of flip flops as your backup shoe
• Bring fewer clothes (but you’ll have to make sure you wash them every night )
• Leave optional items behind. You’ll have to get creative—use a rock as a camera stand, etc.
• Make photocopies of only the guidebook pages you’ll need to save space and weight
• Consider consolidating your hygiene products or book hotels instead of refuges that might offer things like shampoo, soap, etc.

If you’re not hiking with a guide , you’ll also need to pack:

• The proper to-scale TMB maps
• Perhaps a GPS if you’re anything like me
• A compass and the knowledge of how to use it and where you’re going
• Well thought-out contingency plans

If you’re hiking with a friend or group of friends , you can share the load. For instance, between all of you you’ll only need one of each:

• First aid kit
• Toilet paper roll
• Full size bottle of sunscreen
• Outlet adapter
• Phone charger

I know this seems like a lot, but figuring out your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list is one of the most important aspects of this incredible adventure. Best of luck! Have questions? Ask in the comments below and potentially help other future hikers as well!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 33 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List - The Ultimate TMB Gear List

Complete tour du mont blanc packing list.

Travel insurance details

Medical insurance details

Boarding passes for flights

Accommodation booking confirmation (if you're staying extra nights)

Switzerland

Cash and Bank Cards

Cash: bring both Euros and Swiss Francs

Credit/debit card

Tour du Mont Blanc Gear List

Sleeping bag liner: this is for use in the refuges and is usually for sale at the lodge before your trek.

A daypack you can carry: a small backpack with a 35L to 45L capacity should be plenty to fit all your kit. We recommend one with a waist belt.

Trekking poles: these are available for rent from Vert Lodge (approx EUR 10)

Quick dry, lightweight travel towel

Water bottle: at least 2L or two smaller bottles equalling this.

Clothing For Your Trek

N.B.: cotton clothing is not recommended for trekking. This is because cotton soaks up sweat and does not dry easily.

Trekking boots: 3- or 4-season lightweight boots or trail runners

Comfortable shoes for the evenings (flip-flops, sandals etc.)

2 x t-shirts for the hike (fast dry material)

1 x comfortable shirt for the evening

4 x socks for hiking

3 to 4 pairs of underwear

Fleece jacket (optional)

Light down or Primaloft jacket

Rain and windproof hooded jacket (fully waterproof)

Rain and windproof trousers

1 x pair of hiking trousers (pants with zip-off legs that change into shorts are ideal)

Comfortable trousers for the evening

Lightweight hat and gloves

Swimsuit (optional)

Medical and Other Items

Sun cream and other sun protection, such as a hat and buff

Personal medication: inhaler, blister pads, etc.

General toiletries

Contact lenses and glasses (if needed)

Electronics: phone, charging cable, USB plug. You can buy Swiss-compatible plugs before you start the trek.

Hand sanitiser

Final Tips On What to Pack For Tour Du Mont Blanc

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Equipment list for the Tour du Mont Blanc

by Trekking Mont Blanc | 24 November 2022 | Tips for hiking and trekking , Tour du Mont Blanc: tips , Trekking and hiking gear

This article is the continuation of the first part of our  Tour du Mont Blanc gear list . If you are wondering about the basic hiking gear, the one you need to be able to hydrate, orient yourself and protect yourself from the sun on the Tour du Mont Blanc, all the answers to your questions are here!

In this second and last part, we want to inform you about the clothing needed to do the TMB. The clothing you wear must be suitable for the multi-day mountain walk and the weather conditions you may experience. Without the right clothes, you are at the mercy of the cold, wind, rain and sun. Without the right footwear, you could even get injured. In this article, we also advise you on the necessary equipment for a Tour du Mont Blanc to achieve this beautiful trek in autonomy. Finally, we offer you the list of small things to bring for a good hygiene during your stay in the Mont Blanc country.

What to wear for the Tour du Mont Blanc?

• Equipment list for the Tour du Mont Blanc: bivouac and food
• Hygiene on the Tour du Mont Blanc

From head to toe, it is important to have clothes adapted to the practice of hiking for several days for a trouble-free Tour du Mont Blanc. For the top, adopt the principle of three layers to be prepared for any eventuality:

• a first layer that wicks away perspiration.
• a second layer of insulating and warm clothing.
• a third layer that protects against wind and rain.

Breathable T-shirts

On the Tour du Mont Blanc, it is better to walk with a breathable sports shirt adapted to hiking (with reinforcements at the shoulders, against wear and tear from the bag) rather than a cotton shirt that does not wick away perspiration. We advise you to bring enough

A breathable, sweat-wicking t-shirt will keep you dry on the TMB trails. Take enough of them with you and make sure they are suitable for trekking and hiking (reinforced shoulders to avoid wear and tear from rubbing against the bag, sufficient ventilation, anti-UV, etc.).

In your list of equipment for the Tour du Mont Blanc, a fleece is essential. It can be useful in the morning, evening or all day depending on the weather. It is important to have warm and insulating clothing on the Tour du Mont Blanc (and on a hike, in general) to keep you warm. A fleece is perfect for this as it retains heat very well, is light, takes up little space and dries quickly. The weather changes quickly in the mountains and you get cold very quickly when you take a break. So don’t forget a good warm garment for a smooth TMB!

A waterproof jacket

As a third layer, pack a waterproof and windproof Gore-Tex jacket. Rain can come quickly on your trip, even temporarily, and the last thing you want is to get soaked! The jacket can also be used as a windbreaker even when the weather is fine, to keep you from getting cold. Choose a jacket that is sufficiently waterproof (a two- or three-layer jacket that is resistant to 10,000 mm of water will be a good piece of clothing) and the right size to put over a fleece and not restrict your movement when walking.

Another solution for staying dry when it rains is a poncho. It will cover both you and your pack but a poncho is often less waterproof than a hiking jacket. Not ideal if it rains all day, then.

A pair of hiking pants

To have an enjoyable Tour du Mont Blan, it is best to walk in suitable trekking pants. Trekking trousers are made of elastic, resistant and sometimes water-repellent materials, adapted to mountain walking. They will allow you to avoid abrasions, will not hinder your movements and will avoid unpleasant rubbing! On a trek like the Tour du Mont Blanc, we advise you to choose modular hiking pants. The lower part of the trousers can be unzipped and turned into shorts. On the TMB, it can be cold during the first hours of walking but the temperature can quickly rise as the morning and afternoon progress.

Hiking shoes

A good pair of hiking boots is the most important part of your Tour du Mont Blanc gear list. Without proper footwear, your feet will suffer and you are at great risk of injury! The trails of the TMB are varied, so we recommend that you choose hiking boots that cover the ankle well to avoid sprains. Your shoes should also be waterproof. Also pay attention to the sole of your shoes. A good cushioning will avoid back and joint pain at the end of the day. Also, well-cramponed soles will ensure you don’t slip!

Hiking socks

Without hiking socks adapted to walking for several days, you run the risk of blisters appearing on your feet! So choose the right socks for your Tour du Mont Blanc. In specialist shops and on online sales sites, you will find the model that meets your requirements and your budget. Here are some examples that we can recommend:

• Hiking socks made of merino wool, an anti-bacterial material that prevents the formation of bad odours.
• Lateralized socks (one left and one right) to avoid friction, ideal for feet sensitive to blisters.
• Two-layer socks to prevent chafing and keep your feet warm.

A down jacket

A down jacket or warm clothing is very useful at the end of a day of walking, when you have sweated a lot and your clothes are wet. To avoid getting sick (especially when your body is tired from the day), put on a dry fleece or better yet, a down jacket. There are down jackets with a natural filling (down) and others with a synthetic filling. The former are warmer and less bulky, but also more difficult to maintain and more expensive than the latter. To evaluate the warmth of a down jacket, check its characteristics and look at the “cuin”. In short, this is the heat retention index of the down jacket and the higher it is, the warmer the down jacket will be. For a trek like the Tour du Mont Blanc, a 700 cuin down jacket will already be a very good garment. The “comfort” piece of your Tour du Mont Blanc gear list!

A buff, a hat or a cap

Protecting your head is important during a trek like the TMB to keep your head safe from rain, cold or sun. For this, a buff is best as it can be used for many purposes and can also be worn as a neck warmer. A waterproof hiking hat is also a perfect headgear for trekking as it covers the neck well and protects from rain in case of a downpour. You can also take a cap and/or a beanie.

In the morning, it is cold on the Tour du Mont Blanc and it is important to protect the extremities of your body from the cold. For your hands, remember to take thin and warm gloves. If you are doing the TMB on glacier routes, remember to take thick enough gloves to avoid nasty injuries in case of a fall or slip!

List of equipment to do the Tour du Mont Blanc in autonomy

If you plan to do the Tour du Mont Blanc on your own, you will need more gear than if you do it sleeping in the refuges. For a comfortable bivouac trek, here are the essential pieces of a gear list for the  Tour du Mont Blanc in freedom !

A tent or tarp

In a list of equipment for the Tour du Mont Blanc in autonomy, you will obviously need a shelter. A light, compact and waterproof bivouac tent will be perfect. Before choosing, compare prices, weights, sizes and finishes (seams, storage pockets, etc). If you want to walk with a very light equipment, you can choose to sleep in a tarp, more rudimentary but less heavy than a tent.

A sleeping bag

A sleeping bag that is warm enough is essential for the Tour du Mont Blanc in freedom. Even in summer, the nights can be cold on the route and we therefore advise you to choose a sleeping bag with a comfort temperature of 0°C.

A bivouac mattress

To avoid sleeping almost on the ground and avoid back pain, include a sleeping mat or a floor mat in your list of equipment for the Tour du Mont Blanc. There are many models available, varying in weight, comfort and price. Some examples:

• Foam mattresses are the cheapest and are very light but provide little insulation from the ground
• Self-inflating mattresses are more comfortable and more insulating but they are among the heaviest and take up a bit more space.
• Inflatable mattresses take up very little space, fit in your bag and are the most comfortable. However, they are a little more expensive and more fragile than the previous ones.

A stove and fuel

To make a trek in autonomy, you need to be able to prepare food for yourself. For this, a stove is imperative, unless you take cold meals at the beginning of each day. We advise you to bring a small stove so as not to overload your pack. A gas stove and a canister will do perfectly well for a TMB. An alcohol stove will also be a good tool as it will take up less space and weigh less.

> More tips on hiking stoves  here .

For cooking and eating, take along a suitable size cooking pot, depending on the number of people in your group. Also remember to bring enough cutlery and bowls!

Hygiene while trekking

Often neglected in order to lighten the bag, hygiene is important during a trek because it’s the little things you do that can prevent you from getting infected or sick. Here are some things to take in your bag to stay clean on the TMB.

A hydro-alcoholic gel

During a trek, you touch many things with your hands that are not clean and this is one of the main causes of infection. It is therefore important to try to keep them clean to avoid health problems. To do this, carry a bottle of hydro-alcoholic gel in your bag. It’s small and light, so you can keep your hands clean without using water, and what’s more… it’s a great fire starter!

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Dental hygiene is important and the last thing you want to have on the Tour du Mont Blanc is a toothache! So remember to take your toothbrush and toothpaste before you leave. In order not to leave any trace of your passage on the TMB trails, you will find dry toothpastes and bio-degradable toothpastes in specialized stores or in pharmacies.

A microfiber towel

To dry yourself after a shower in a refuge or after your toilet, take a small microfiber towel. It is light and doesn’t take up much space, and dries very quickly. If you want to make a washcloth, you can cut two squares of microfiber towel and sew them together. You can find microfiber towels at very reasonable prices in any sports store.

Marseille soap

Marseille soap is perfect for trekking because it has many uses. So it has its place in a list of equipment for the Tour du Mont Blanc! Marseille soap allows to :

• wash face and body
• shampoo hair
• clean a wound
• wash the dirty laundry
• do the dishes

To stay clean, slip a small piece of soap into a waterproof pocket before setting off on your adventure!

We hope this article has helped you create your Tour du Mont Blanc gear list! If you have any questions, ideas or feedback, leave us a comment just below 🙂

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Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List

Hiking Mont Blanc is a dream for many. This 170km route through the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps is one of the most beautiful treks in Europe , if not the world.

However, knowing what to pack for Mont Blanc can be daunting. Luckily we’ve created the ultimate Tour du Mont Blanc packing list .

Our TMB packing list includes all the essentials to help you explore this famed route. 

Let's get started.

Packing List for Tour du Mont Blanc

Before deciding what to take with you when hiking Mont Blanc, you need to understand the ideal weight of your backpack. Remember, you will walk for about 7 - 8 hours daily, so your gear should not be too heavy.

A good rule of thumb for the lower parts of the trail is to pack items that weigh no more than 20% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 80kg, your backpack should not exceed 16kg.

We recommend keeping your backpack around 10kg.

You may be dealing with many issues, including altitude sickness and fatigue. The lighter you pack, the easier the trek will be.

Don't assume that the extra 1kg won't make a difference - it will! Ensure every item in your backpack is essential and doesn’t add unnecessary weight.

Let's look at the essential items you should pack for your  Tour du Mont Blanc trek .

Backpack and Daypacks

A 25-35 litre backpack is usually the perfect size for the Tour du Mont Blanc if you’re staying in accommodation. Make sure it has chest and hip straps, which will help distribute the weight evenly.

For shorter 1-day hikes up Mont Blanc, I recommend the Osprey Talon 33L or the Tempest 3oL for women for the best daypacks. Be sure to also check out our favourite hiking daypacks .

You'll need a bigger backpack if you plan to camp along the route. Something around 55- 65 litres should do the trick. The bag should be big enough to include a tent, sleeping bag, and other camping gear. Osprey are also my preferred manufacturer for  camping backpacks for hiking .

A good backpack will have enough space for all your belongings. It shouldn’t be too big or bulky. It should also be comfortable to wear, even when fully packed.

To ensure the backpack you choose will serve you well during your hike, follow our tips:

• Buy the backpack three months before the trek : You will need a lot of time to train with your backpack and ensure it's comfortable. Buy it early and use it for day hikes before your big trek. This will also give you time to ensure it has all the needed features.
• Wear the backpack around the house : Wearing your gear around the house will help you get used to the feel of it. You’ll quickly learn how your backpack distributes weight.
• Choose a backpack with many compartments : Extra compartments will help you organise your belongings and ensure they are easily accessible during your hike.
• Ensure the backpack is waterproof : There’s no foul weather—only wrong gear. You never know when you will get caught in a rainstorm. Your backpack should have a rain cover, protecting your belongings from the elements.
• Get a bag with a frame : A frame will help distribute the weight evenly and make your hike much more comfortable.

Here are some great quality  daypacks for Men and Women as well as some great quality backpacks for Men and Women .

There are several types of footwear to include in your Mont Blanc packing list. They include:

Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are a must for this hike. They will provide the support and stability you need on uneven terrain. They will also protect your feet from rocks and roots.

When choosing hiking boots, make sure they are comfortable and fit well. They should also have good traction to prevent you from slipping.

The best boots for hiking Mont Blanc should have a sturdy sole, good ankle support, and a comfortable insole. If you have kids, make sure their hiking boots fit well too.

Test out your hiking boots before the big day. Go on a few day hikes and see how they feel. You can also wear them around the house to get a feel for them.

I recommend Salomon, Keen or Merrell hiking boots. Or see our picks for the best hiking boots .

Here are some great quality  hiking boots for Men  and  Women .

Flip-flops Or Refuge Slippers

You can’t wear your hiking boots inside the Mont Blanc refuges. Typically, you would keep your hiking boots in an allocated area or boot room.

The refuges provide crocs or flip-flops that you can wear in the common areas. This is to keep the dirt and mud out of the sleeping and eating areas. It also helps reduce the spread of germs.

If you don't want to wear the crocs provided, you can always pack your own sandals or refuge slippers. These can be easily slipped on and off when entering and leaving the common areas.

Ensure the flip-flops you pack are comfortable and easy to walk in. They should also have an excellent grip to prevent you from slipping.

Here are some great quality  sandals for Men  and  Women .

Hiking Socks

You will need several pairs of hiking socks for your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.  Hiking socks  should be made of moisture-wicking material, such as wool or synthetic fabric.

This is because you will be doing a lot of walking, and your feet will sweat. Synthetic material will keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.

Make sure the socks you pack are comfortable and fit well. They should also sit high enough to protect your ankles from rubbing against your boots.

Smartwool, Darn Tough or even REI's Co-Op socks are great brands for hiking socks. 

Here are some great quality hiking socks for Men  and  Women .

You must pack crampons if you are hiking in the winter or spring. Crampons are spikes that attach to your boots and provide traction on ice and snow.

When choosing crampons, make sure they are compatible with your hiking boots. They should also be easy to put on and take off.

The  best crampons  are made of stainless steel and have 12 - 18 spikes.

Here are some  great quality crampons .

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are a must for this hike. They will help you maintain balance and stability on uneven terrain. They will also take some of the strain off your knees and hips.

When choosing trekking poles, make sure they are adjustable. You can adjust them to your height and the terrain you will be walking on.

Choosing poles made of lightweight materials, such as aluminium or carbon fibre, is also important. The lighter they are, the easier it’ll be to carry them on your hike.

I recommend  Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork  or the  Leki Micro Vario Carbon as our favourite trekking poles overall. Here is our selection of top hiking poles .

Here are some great quality  trekking poles for Men and Women .

Hiking Clothing

The clothing you pack will depend on the time of year you are hiking. In the summer, you will need to pack light, breathable clothing. So, include shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops.

You must pack layers if you are hiking in the spring or fall. This way, you can adjust your clothing to the changing weather conditions.

In the winter, you will need to pack warm, insulated clothing. Think of including a down jacket, fleece, and thermal underwear.

Read our review on the  Black Diamond Cold Forge Hoody . 

Make sure the clothing you pack is comfortable and easy to move in.

You should also avoid cotton fabrics, as they tend to absorb sweat and take a long time to dry. Instead, choose synthetic or wool fabrics that dry quickly.

Here is some great quality hiking clothing for Men and Women . 

Jacket (Weatherproof and Waterproof)

You will need a weatherproof and waterproof jacket for your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. The weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Your jacket should be made of Gore-Tex or another similar material. This material will ensure you stay dry in the rain and snow.

The jacket should also have a hood to protect your head from the elements. Make sure it is big enough to fit over all your other layers of clothing.

Here are some great quality weatherproof jackets for Men and Women as some great quality waterproof jackets for Men and Women . 

Sleeping Bag Liner

A sleeping bag liner is mandatory in all the refuges on the TMB. You can rent one in the refuges, but it's worth bring your own. A sleeping bag liner is a thin cotton, silk or synthetic fabric you put inside your sleeping bag or under your blanket. This liner adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort.

When choosing a sleeping bag liner, make sure it is made of breathable fabric. The thin, breathable fabric prevents you from getting too hot at night.

It is also important to choose a liner that is easy to wash. You’ll find it’s easier to keep it clean during your hike.

If you plan to camp for your TMB hike, then you should bring a 4-season sleeping bag.

Here are some great quality sleeping bag liners . 

If you’re planning to camp along the Tour du Mont Blanc route, a tent is a must for your packing list. Since you’ll spend a lot of time in the great outdoors, you’ll want a comfortable place to sleep at night.

The best tents for the Tour du Mont Blanc are lightweight, weatherproof, and easy to set up. They are also big enough to fit your gear but not so big that they are cumbersome to carry.

The weather in the Alps can be unpredictable, so it is crucial to have a tent that can withstand high winds and heavy rains.

Here are our recommendations on the  good lightweight tents .

Here are some great quality tents . 

Electronics

You’ll want to take a few electronics on your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure.

• Camera : A camera is a must. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to capture the stunning scenery.
• GPS : A GPS device can help keep track of your location. You can also use it to map out your route and plan your daily hikes.
• Flashlight : A flashlight,  lantern or headlamp can be helpful for early morning hikes or late-night emergencies. Make sure to pack extra batteries, as you may not have access to a power source for a while.
• Entertainment : A portable Bluetooth speaker is a great way to listen to music or audiobooks while you hike. It can also be used for group entertainment in the evenings.

Carry a portable USB multi-socket charger to charge all your electronic devices simultaneously. A power bank is also good, as some more remote areas may not have outlets to plug into.

Here are some great quality GPS devices , flashlights , Bluetooth speakers and power banks .

A first-aid kit is essential, as you may need to treat minor injuries while on the trail. Bandages, antibiotic ointment, and pain relievers are all excellent items to have on hand.

Carrying a small knife can help cut rope, open food packages, and help with other tasks.

Include packing a whistle. You can use a whistle to signal for help if you get lost or injured. If you are in a group, ensure every member has their own whistle.

Here are some great quality camping knives as well as some great quality first aid-aid kits . 

Make sure to pack your passport and any other necessary travel documents.

I recommend getting travel insurance for the TMB hike.  SafetyWing  are a great provider. They provide convenient and cost-effective Medical Travel Insurance for travellers. They also have low-cost monthly plans, fast customer service, and a simple claims process, making them ideal for insurance seekers.

It is a good idea to make copies of all your important documents, in case you lose the originals.

Store the copies in a different location than the originals. For instance, you can store them in your backpack or a secure place at your campsite.

There are a few other things you should bring along on your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure. They include:

• Sunscreen : The sun can be intense at high altitudes, so pack sunscreen with a high SPF.
• Bug spray : Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance, so it is good to have bug spray on hand.
• Sunhat : A wide-brimmed sunhat (see Men's and Women's options ) will protect your face and neck from the sun.
• Water bottle : You must stay hydrated while hiking, so always carry a water bottle .
• Gaiters : Gaiters (see Men's and Women's options ) are worn over your boots to keep debris and water out. They are instrumental in wet or muddy conditions.

Tour Du Mont Blanc Packing Checklist

Hiking the trail.

• Hiking boots
• Hiking shorts
• Hiking socks
• Wicking shirt
• Fleece jacket
• Rain jacket
• Trekking poles
• Sunglasses for Men and Women
• First-aid kit

For The Refuges

• Flip flops/sandals
• Warm hat for Men and Women
• Sleeping bag for Men and Women
• Sleeping bag liner
• Travel towel
• Thermal underwear for Men and Women
• USB multi-socket charger
• Portable Bluetooth speaker

Safety Gear

• First aid kit
• Foil blanket

Your First-Aid Kit

• Blister plasters
• Antihistamines
• Painkillers
• Steroid cream
• Rehydration sachets
• Antibiotic ointment
• Safety pins
• Cotton wool
• Rehydration salt sachets
• Kinesiology tape
• Toilet roll
• Hand sanitiser
• Shampoo  /  Travel Shampoo
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Makeup (just the basics)
• Feminine hygiene products

Miscellaneous

• A book or Kindle
• Journal and pen
• Cards or other games
• Small foot massage ball
• Packing cube
• Camera and tripod
• Travel insurance documents
• Visas and permits
• Cash in small denominations
• Emergency contact information
• Copy of important documents

Conquer The Tour Du Mont Blanc With This Packing List

Touring Mont Blanc is a fantastic experience that should be on everyone's bucket list. Our comprehensive packing list will prepare you for anything the trail throws your way.

Ensure you hike this beautiful mountain with all the right gear so you can make the most of your trip. Good luck!

If you have any further questions or queries about this Mont Blanc  Packing List , then please leave a comment below and we'll respond as soon as possible.

Continue Browsing

For more packing lists, see our  hiking resources page  or choose from one of our popular gear lists below:

• Inca Trail Packing List
• Annapurna Circuit Packing List
• Everest Base Camp Packing List
• Aconcagua Gear
• Hiking Packing List for Women
• Multi-day Hiking Packing List
• Camping Gear List
• Appalachian Hike Packing List
• Kilimanjaro Packing List

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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How To Pack For Tour du Mont Blanc – Without Breaking Your Back

This ultimate Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List contains all the gear and equipment you need for your epic hike, plus a few luxury items to make your trek even more enjoyable!

Table of Contents

It can also be intimidating knowing what to pack for a long-distance trek, especially when you’re carrying everything yourself and you’re equally concerned about having the essentials, and the weight of carrying it.

You’re excited about your trip, and the TMB is definitely awe-inspiring as you circumnavigate Mont Blanc, the second-highest mountain in Europe but there’s also a lot to figure out. My preferred way of doing it is as a self-guided trip. Check out our 6, 7 and 10-day TMB Self-Guided and Guided Tours . If you’re just looking for 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.

So I reduced it again. I can’t emphasize how important it is to pack 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. Not only will your back and shoulders thank you, but it will also help build the muscles that you need.

Reflecting on my TMB  afterwards I probably overpacked a bit. But was overall happy with my packing list. I’ve since done other similar trips and have modified this packing list for the Tour du Mont Blanc to reflect what you actually need. Since you often find that you don’t use or need everything that you bring with you. 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.

How to Use this Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List:

This TMB Packing List assumes that you will be staying in refuges, and taking between 7 – 12 days to do the hike, as I did when I hiked the TMB . If you plan to sleep in a tent, of course, you would need camping gear. You’d also need to decide whether you would be cooking your own food or eating at a nearby refuge.

It also assumes that you will be carrying your own backpack. You’ll need a 60-L backpack. If you pack really light you can get away with a 45-litre backpack, which I used.

If you don’t want to carry your own backpack, then I highly recommend doing one of our Tour d u Mont Blanc Self-Guided Tours.  We can organize luggage transfer for you so that you just have to carry your day backpack.  If you’re having your luggage transferred daily, a 35-L backpack is fine. Check out this day hiking packing list if you choose that option.

Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List: Clothing

Buy on Amazon

Description: Smartwool top It repels odour. And you can actually wear it 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.

Price Range: from $70 to $140

Buy on amazon

Description: 2 Quick-dry moisture-wicking shirts Only 2 is enough if they are long-sleeved with the option to roll the sleeves up, otherwise, bring 2 short-sleeve and 1 long-sleeve shirt.

Price Range:  from $8 to $55

Description: Lightweight fleece with hood This should be another warm layer. Make sure to choose one that’s lightweight and warm. It is your mid-layer. I bring one on every single hike – even if it’s hot outside.

Price Range:  from $25 to $120

Description: Waterproof shell with hood It will likely rain at some point while you’re hiking the TMB. Shells don’t take up much room. It will save you in rain, hail or even a snowstorm.

Price Range:  from$35 to $170

Description: Waterproof pants Remember, rain is a high possibility at some point during your TMB. I only wore mine one day but was glad to have them.

Price Range:  from $26 to $130

Description: 2 pairs of Convertible hiking pants Look for the kind that zip off into shorts. This saves you from having to bring both pants and shorts.

Price Range:  from $20 to $160

Description: Thermal leggings You’ll want to bring these if you’re hiking the TMB in June or September. It might get chilli.

Price Range:  from $8 to $72

Description: 3 pairs of moisture-wicking 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.

Price Range:  from $15 to $65

Description: Light gloves If you’re going in July and August, light gloves are fine but if you’re going in June or Sep, then bring warmer ones as well.

Price Range:  from $10 to $55

Description: Neckwarmer This is one of my favourite pieces of gear and takes up almost no space.

Price Range:  from $8 to $16

Description: Warm hat Or a toque as us Canadians call it 🙂

Price Range:  from $8 to $35

Description: Dry Bag For your electronics and passport.

Price Range: from $8 to 45

Hiking Gear to Pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Description: Anti-shock & retractable hiking poles To reduce the pressure off your lower body. Buy the retractable kind so that you can carry them on your backpack when you’re not using them.

Price Range:  from $20 to $95

Description: Hiking boots Choose an ankle-height pair that is waterproof or water-resistant. VERY IMPORTANT: Be sure to break them in before you start your Tour du Mont Blanc trek . You don’t want to be in constant agony because of blisters.

Price Range:  from $70 to $450

Description: 35-45L Backpack The size you choose will depend on how much you pack. Look for one that comes with a built-in rain cover.

Price Range:  from $50 to $400

Description: Gaiters Very useful in case of rain or walking through deep snow banks. Plus they keep tiny rocks from getting in your boots.

Price Range:  from $30 to $100

Description: 3 pairs of quick-dry underwear They save a lot of space by not having to bring so many pairs.

Price Range: from $10 to $50

Description: Sports bra You should also take a regular bra for hanging out at the hut. You don’t want to have to put on a sweaty bra after showering, yuck.

Price Range:  from $10 to $150

Description:   Baseball/sun cap You definitely don’t want to get sunstroke while hiking so bring some kind of hat that will protect you from the sun.

Price Range:  from $10 to $90

Related Reading: Tour du Mont Blanc: How to Effortlessly Plan Your Epic Trek

Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List: After Hiking Clothing 

Description: Hut shoes Many huts do not allow regular shoes in certain areas. Bring a pair of hut shoes, spa shoes, or slippers to wear indoors. Some, but not all huts will provide these. UPDATE: DUE TO COVID, HUTS ARE NO LONGER PROVIDING THESE SO BRING YOUR OWN.

Price Range: from $15 to $75

Description: Nightshirt or something to sleep in 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 covers everything. I.e. leave the negligee at home.

Price Range: from $15 to $50

Description: ALPS Mountaineering MicroFiber Rectangle Sleeping Bag Liner The refuges provide blankets and a pillow. A sleeping bag liner serves as a barrier between you and the blankets. Bring this even if you’re staying in private rooms since some but not all accommodations provide linens.

Price Range: from $13 to $60

Description: Comfortable pair of casual pants You’ll wear these after hiking and having dinner in the refuges.

Price Range: from $12 to $55

Food and Snacks to Pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Nutritious Snacks that don’t squish easily. Nuts and dried fruit are good choices. Crackers and wafers get crushed easy and chocolate melts. If you crave something sweet, then gummy bears are a better choice than chocolate since they don’t melt.

If you have any food allergies, like me, I’m Celiac so can’t eat any gluten, then bring a few extra snacks in case the mountain huts aren’t able to accommodate your allergy or forget, as happened to me on a couple of occasions.

Note: Breakfast and dinner are both served in the refuge. You have the option to purchase a to-go lunch from them which is what we did. The other option is to bring more food or plan to stop at one of the refuges en route for lunch.

If you choose the last option, prepare to do more route planning so that you don’t end up eating lunch at 10:00 am or 4:00 pm.

Staying Hydrated on the TMB

Description: 4 liters of water Some days you may only need 3 litres, and on most days there will be a refuge en route where you can fill up your water bottle .

Price Range:  from $10 to $65

Description: Electrolyte tablets These are very helpful near the end of the day when you’re ready to power out, but still have more hiking to do.

Price Range:  from $10 to $50

Miscellaneous Stuff to Pack

Description: Compeed blister cushions These are THE best blister treatment I’ve ever found.

Price Range:  from $5 to $17

Description:   Plastic bags Yes, you’ve got to carry that toilet paper out. You can’t leave it. Yes, it’s stinky and gross, but do it anyway. Hence the plastic bags.

Price Range:  from $5 to $15

Description: Quick-dry towel Most refuges don’t provide towels, so you need one you can dry off with after a shower, and use to dry your face.

Price Range: from $10 to $60

Description: Tour of Mont Blanc Complete two-way trekking guide. You won’t need this or the map below if you choose to do our  TMB Tour.

Price Range: from $12 to $45

Description: Universal Travel Adapter You’ll need an adapter that works in Europe and that has multiple outlets. Outlets are in short supply in the huts and this one allows you to charge multiple devices at the same time.

Price Range: from $8 to $25

Description: Mini first aid kit You probably don’t need a full-size First Aid Kit. I use a mini one like this one and it has the basics.

Price Range:  from $7 to $20

Buy on Amazon  

Description:   Toilet paper If you’ve ever been without toilet paper while hiking, you’ll understand why you should always bring a roll with you.

Price Range:  from $5 to $10

Description: Toiletries You need a proper place to keep your toiletries so they don ruin everything else if they spill.

Price Range: from $15 to $55

Description:  Headlamp  with extra batteries. I always carry a headlamp in my backpack. Two years ago, my husband and I did a  short 3 hour hike , which turned into a 7 hour hike because we got lost. Thankfully we found our way with our headlamps. I actually end up using mine a few times each year.

Price Range:  from $8 to $100

Buy on Amazon 

Description: Washing detergent Make sure it is biodegradable so that you contaminate the least possible.

Price Range: from $5 to $20

Travel and trip cancellation insurance. We recommend  HeyMondo (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 so if you become ill or unable to travel due to COVID, they’ll cover you. Check out their site for the specific details, as not everything is included. 

Money on the TMB

Most refuges do not accept credit cards and there are only cash machines in the towns. Of which you will not be in every day if you stay in refuges. Be sure to bring enough cash with you. You can expect to pay €12 – €15 for a packed lunch from the huts. You’ll also need money for drinks at your hut.

And for transfers, if you want to take a lift or a bus to shorten your hike. Budget ~€30 to €50 for this. Plus it’s a good idea to bring extra cash as a contingency.

In Europe, it’s required by law that you carry identification with you. If you’re a European citizen identification will do. If you’re not European, you must carry your passport with you.

Optional Items to Pack for the Tour du Mont Blanc

Description:   iPhone This is for taking photos. I rarely hike with my DSLR because it’s so bulky and heavy. The new smartphones take really great photos. I also use the GPS function. You can also use it to download hiking apps .

Price Range:  $900

Description: Book to read. I recommend bringing both a Kindle Fire HD – pre-loaded and a small paper one. Plugins are in short supply in refuges and you may not be able to charge all your devices every night.

Price Range:  $150

Description:   Garmin My friend bought one of these when we did the Tour du Mont Blanc. Track your route and progress.

Price Range:  from $80 to $500

Description: Card Game . You may have time to relax when you arrive at the hut each day. Bring a card game or other game that doesn’t take up much space. Pictured is one of my favourites.

Price Range: from $10 to $25

Description: 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.

Price Range: from $5 to $25

Description: Muscle-soreness relief cream You might need them after each day of hiking.

That’s your ultimate Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.  Happy packing!

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Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List

Making smart choices about what to pack (and what to leave behind) is a vital part of setting yourself up for a successful and enjoyable Tour du Mont Blanc experience.  It’s simple- the heavier your pack, the harder your effort . However, with a little thoughtful planning, you can keep your pack weight manageable while still ensuring you have everything you need to be comfortable on the trail and while relaxing at the refuges, campgrounds, and villages along the way.  

 Below you’ll find a detailed Tour du Mont Blanc packing list that will provide you with great,  trail-tested gear that won’t weigh down your backpack too much .

In This Post

• TMB Packing Basics
• Camping-Specific Gear List
• Refuge-Specific Gear List
• Personal Gear List
• Miscellaneous Gear List
• Women’s Clothing List
• Men’s Clothing List

Everything you need to plan your TMB – all in one place.

Whether you prefer mountain huts or hotels, fastpacking or meandering, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.  Our Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc  is the ultimate tool to help you plan your perfect trip.

When you purchase a guide, you’ll get instant access to all the information you need to plan your trip in our planning portal as well as in a downloadable PDF eGuide.

• Planning Portal Access: Get instant access to our online trip planning portal complete with 9-day, 11-day, and 12-day TMB itineraries.
• Accommodation Insights:  You’ll get information on accommodation options for every stage, including where to book when popular huts are fully booked!
• GPS Maps:  Every guide comes with custom GPS maps for three different itineraries. Download the maps for offline use so you’ll always be able to find your next campsite.
• Expert Advice:  Find detailed maps for every stage, accommodation & booking information, packing lists, and much more.

We’re confident this is the best resource available for camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc.  Pick up your guide below and if you’re not satisfied for any reason we’ll give you a full refund!

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Tour du Mont Blanc Packing Basics

There are limitless ways to hike the TMB; you can customize the length of your trek, your accommodation preferences, your meal options, and so much more. Your Tour du Mont Blanc packing list will need to be tailored to your individual itinerary and needs.

Someone who is using a luggage transfer service and staying in refuges will have a significantly different kit than someone who is carrying all of their own camping gear and cooking their own meals. Despite all of this variability,  there are a few basic truths about packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc that apply to everyone.  These include:

• Keep your backpack as light as possible! (see the next section for more on this)
• It is essential to dial in your footwear.
• Bring hiking poles and learn how to use them prior to your TMB trek.

How much should my pack weigh on the Tour du Mont Blanc?

This isn’t easy to answer, since there are a ton of factors that influence how much is too much for any individual hiker. Some things to think about…

• How fast are you hoping to hike? Generally speaking, lighter=faster
• Have you completed a multi-day through hike with this specific backpack and this amount of weight before? 
• Are you injury-prone or do you have any chronic knee, hip, or back issues? 

As a very general rule,  campers should keep their pack weight below 13kg , including food and water.  Those staying in refuges should carry no more than 9kg . If having your luggage transferred along the trail,  most transfer services will limit you to 18kg , and your daypack shouldn’t exceed 4kg.

If you are backpacking for the first time or have a chronic injury, the weight of your pack should be significantly less than these guidelines.  Generally speaking, less is more.  Here’s a few tips for lightening your load:

• You only need a couple of shirts . Same goes for underwear and socks. Before you write us off as total dirtbags, hear us out. First, you’ll have plenty of time and sunshine to wash and dry laundry. Second, clothes are heavy, so cutting out everything but the absolute essentials will make a huge difference.
• Plan out when/where you’ll restock food provisions and  don’t carry more food than you need.
• Consider leaving your bulky camera equipment at home . Unless photography is your passion, most smartphones take great photos and save a ton of space and weight.

Footwear on the Tour du Mont Blanc

Traditional hiking boots, hiking shoes, or trail runners will all work for the trail conditions on the TMB,  but you need to make sure they will work for  you  too. This means that you should bring a pair of boots or shoes that you know  from experience  don’t cause problems for your feet. Ideally,  you should put at least 30 miles on them  in various terrain and weather conditions to reduce the chance of running into issues on the trail.

A nasty blister can be catastrophic on a multi-day trek like the TMB! That being said,  you also don’t want your boots/shoes to be  too  broken in , as you need them to hold up faithfully for many miles of gnarly terrain. I know we’re asking you to work some Goldilocks magic here, but it’s definitely worth it!

In terms of other specifications, we feel that  the only other must-have is a good, grippy Vibram (or similar material) sole  for steep descents and loose paths. Otherwise it’s up to personal preference when it comes to how much ankle support you need, waterproof versus quick-dry, sturdy versus lightweight, and so on.

You’ll also want to make sure you have some good socks. Socks are one of those rare things in life where you really do get what you pay for, and  high quality socks can be a game changer . Once again, try to do some hiking in a few different types to figure out how what you like in terms of thickness, cushion, and height. We love merino wool for its quick-drying and anti-stink qualities. While we think it is a great material for hiking clothing and socks, it is worth considering if merino wool is right for you before committing to it for your TMB hike

If you’re blister prone,  consider trying sock liners. Many hikers swear by them. Other tried-and-true blister prevention tactics include putting bodyglide on potential hotspots or wearing toesocks.

Trekking Poles

BRING THEM. Enough said. Seriously,  these are a total game-changer on a tough trek like the TMB . You (and your knees) will be so glad to have them on steep sections, and this is especially true for campers who are carrying heavier loads.

The same rule for shoes applies to backpacks: make sure you complete several hikes with your bag packed the same way (and with the same weight) you’ll carry on the TMB. Also similar to shoes,  backpacks need to be broken in through use,  and your body needs to get used to the feeling of wearing it for extended periods of time.

In terms of size, most campers will need between 45 and 65 liters. Those staying in refuges will find that 30-40L is perfect. If you’re purchasing a new one, most good outdoors stores have experienced staff that will help you find the right fit and style for your needs.  Don’t forget to bring a pack cover  (included with many newer backpacks) to protect against rain. This is an absolute must-have.

Battery Backup

If you plan on  using your phone as a GPS  to navigate along the TMB (which we highly recommend!), it’s imperative that it stays charged. Most accommodation providers will allow you to charge electronics, but this isn’t a guarantee everywhere. Carrying a small  battery backup  or one of these nifty  portable solar panels  will give you a little  more freedom and peace of mind .

Down Jacket

We’ve found this to be a  perfect piece of gear for the Tour du Mont Blanc . It can be quite chilly in the Alps in the early morning and evenings, but a heavy fleece or bulky jacket can really sabotage a lightweight pack. Down jackets are warm, super packable, and very lightweight. Besides a light waterproof rain jacket, this is the only outer layer you should need.

The Cicerone Guide to the TMB  is an excellent resource for anyone planning a TMB trek. This thorough guide covers everything from the history of the hike to interesting sights you’ll see along the way, and of course provides a comprehensive breakdown of every stage.  It is also available as an e-book,  meaning you can download it to your phone to really optimize your packing!

We also love  Trailblazer’s Tour du Mont Blanc Guide .  It is  incredibly detailed  and has great resources for finding accommodation and other services at every point along the trail.

In our opinion, the Cicerone guide feels more organized and easy-to-navigate, while the Trailblazer guide has more in-depth and comprehensive information. The bottom line?  You can’t go wrong with either,  and you’ll be glad to have at least one of these great resources!

Get The FREE TMB Essentials Handbook

Our free PDF guide covers all the basics – when to hike, accommodation, typical costs, and more!

Your TMB Essentials Booklet will be emailed to you shortly. 

Camping-Specific Gear

If you plan on camping along the TMB,  there’s a lot more gear you need to think about than just your hiking basics.  Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered!  

Use this camping gear list in conjunction with the personal items list, miscellaneous list, and men’s or women’s clothing list to put together your perfect Tour du Mont Blanc packing list.   Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc  is definitely worth carrying the bigger backpack.

We love the  flexibility and independence  it gives us, and many of the campgrounds are downright luxurious. With the right gear and a manageable pack size, you are guaranteed to have an amazing experience conquering the TMB with your own tent.   

Most valuable piece of camping gear: Nemo Astro Sleeping Pad

Confession: This was the third sleeping pad I purchased in a three year quest to find the right fit.  Until I got the Nemo, I just assumed it wasn’t possible to get a good night’s sleep while camping.  

Not only do I sleep warm (thanks to its 20 degree insulation) and comfortably, but this is also one of the most compact and lightweight options out there. It’s quick to inflate and a breeze to pack away. A good night’s rest and extra space in my backpack make this my favorite piece of camping gear.

Refuge-Specific Gear

If you’re planning on sleeping in mountain refuges and hotels along the TMB, you can enjoy the benefit of a shorter packing list! This list has a few items you’ll need  specifically for sleeping in gites and refuges.  

While you don’t need much, there are some essentials that you’ll be glad to have for these communal accommodation situations. Use this list in conjunction with the other lists (except for the camping gear list) to ensure that you’re well prepared for your TMB adventure.  

Note: there are some repeats on this list that we’ve also included on the other lists. However, we wanted to highlight items on this list that are especially important for anyone who is staying primarily in refuges. 

Read more: TMB Accommodation and Refuge Guide

Most valuable item for Refuges: Mack’s Earplugs

Getting quality sleep is so important for your body to feel recovered and fresh on a long-distance trek. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to sleep well in the dorm-style sleeping arrangements commonly found in TMB refuges. 

Being packed like sardines into a room full of Olympic level snorers doesn’t have to ruin your night though!  It’s amazing what a difference some good earplugs can make. We find that we sleep much more soundly with these comfortable, effective earplugs. They’re a huge step up from those cheap foam ones- these stay in place and block out way more noise. Sometimes the little things can make the biggest difference!

Personal Gear

Whether you’re camping or staying indoors,  these items are must-haves for the TMB.  While we’ve included some toiletries that are absolutely essential for this hike, we’ve left it up to you to determine your personal list of additional self care items (comb, toothbrush, prescription medication, etc).  

Use this list in conjunction with the camping gear list OR refuge list, and the miscellaneous and clothing lists to build your perfect kit.

Most valuable personal item: Black Diamond Trekking Poles

We absolutely love our Black Diamond poles for their lightweight design and durability.  I can’t imagine tackling some of the steep, loose sections of the TMB without my trusty poles!  

They make a significant different in our perceived effort on tough climbs and descents, and they’ve saved me (a serious klutz) from falling countless times! Their telescoping feature makes them easy to pack away for international flights, just be sure they go in your checked baggage.

Miscellaneous Gear

These odds and ends are the  unsung heroes of the TMB packing list.  From getting your stinky shirt clean to keeping your phone charged, these items help your trek run smoothly. Make sure to use this list in addition to the other categories to complete your personal Tour du Mont Blanc packing list. 

Most valuable miscellaneous gear: Anker Powercore 10000.

Chances are, you’re getting out on the trail to get a break from the constant demands of screens and technology and that’s wonderful. However,  don’t underestimate the importance of having a charged cell phone on the TMB.

Your phone can be your  navigational device , your camera, your guidebook, and your notepad all in one. Charging opportunities can be unreliable along the route, so a battery backup can be an absolute lifesaver. This one is dependable, relatively small, and can fully charge your phone 1.5-2 times.

Women’s Clothing

When you’re wearing the same clothes for nearly two weeks in various weather conditions and while doing some serious trekking,  it is imperative that those clothes are comfortable and high quality.  

Although your individual preferences may look a little different, this list is an excellent starting point to ensure you’ve got all the essentials.

Emily’s most valuable clothing item: Ex officio underwear

Perhaps this may seem like a strange choice for my favorite piece of gear, but  it truly was a game changer for me  on the TMB. As a woman, I’ve found it to be so annoyingly difficult to find good quality, comfortable underwear designed for outdoor sports and travel.

And not that it should matter, but most of the ones that do exist are extremely ugly. Ex officio changed all that for me. What’s even more amazing is that you can rinse them out at the end of each day and they’ll be totally fresh and dry by morning. This makes it so you can get away with packing just a few pairs.

It’s an added bonus if you can pack clothes that will work both on the trail and in town.

Men’s Clothing

When you’re wearing the same clothes for nearly two weeks in various weather conditions and while doing some serious trekking, it is imperative that those clothes are comfortable and high quality.  Although your individual preferences may look a little different, this list is an  excellent starting point  to ensure you’ve got all the essentials.

Ian’s most valuable clothing item: Icebreaker Merino Wool T-Shirt

After years of hiking and traveling in synthetic tech tees,  switching to Merino wool was a major upgrade.  Like synthetic materials, Merino is quick-drying and moisture-wicking, but unlike the synthetic materials I can hike in it for days without any funky smells.

Plus, I find it to be more comfortable and stylish, since it looks just like a normal t-shirt. This was convenient for times when I wanted to wear it off the trail. Icebreaker makes an all around great shirt that is well worth the price. 

Let Us Make Your TMB Trip A Success

We have used our experience, research, and passion to create effective and trail-tested resources for all TMB hikers. If you plan to trek without the support of a tour company, our resources can help you with the logistics of preparing for the trip of a lifetime.

• Camping Guide (Our Best Seller): If camping is more your style, our dedicated camping guide is just for you. It includes detailed campground descriptions and camping-specific itineraries.
• GPS Digital Downloads (2nd Best Seller): Navigate the TMB with ease using our GPS files, updated yearly and compatible with most devices. The files cover the entire trek, including common alternate routes.
• Guide to the TMB:  Our comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about the TMB. It’s available on our online planning portal and as a downloadable eGuide. The guide includes accommodation recommendations, offline GPS & maps, and video fly-throughs of the trail.
• Custom Itineraries:  We’ll help you design a TMB itinerary that fits your specific needs, including your trip length, accommodation type, hiking ability, budget, and more.
• Custom GPS Files:  For a truly personalized experience, we can create a GPS file customized to your specific itinerary, including your accommodations and route preferences.

As passionate hikers, we’ve made it our goal to empower you with all the information you need for your best TMB experience. We’ve helped over 2,500 hikers prepare for their trips, navigate on the trail, and simplify the planning process.

While you don’t need to go out and buy all new gear for the TMB, a few key items can make a big difference on your trek. These tried-and-true lists are the perfect starting point for putting together your ideal kit. Remember to keep your backpack as lightweight as possible, and be prepared for mountain weather!

Keep Reading

Be sure to check out all of our Tour du Mont Blanc posts below.  If you’re looking for more great resources, check out our guides and custom itineraries .

• TMB Trip Report – Know what to expect!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Logistics – Don’t forget the small details!
• How to Navigate on the TMB – Turn your smartphone into a GPS!
• How to find all of your campgrounds on the TMB – Know where you are and where you’re going!
• How to train for the TMB – Avoid being the last person to the campground!
• 10 Essentials for the Tour du Mont Blanc- The quick and dirty basics
• Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc – The essential resource!
• Tour du Mont Blanc Photo Galley – Find some inspiration!
• How to hike the TMB for (nearly) free – save BIG on your TMB costs!
• How Much It Cost Us to Hike the TMB
• Tour du Mont Blanc Map
• Tour du Mont Blanc Accommodation and Refuge Guide
• Tour du Mont Blanc – Shortcuts, Detours, & Public Transit

7 thoughts on “Tour du Mont Blanc Packing List”

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Awesome information! Thank you for doing this.

How many bags did each of you carry and how much did they weigh?

Thanks, glad you found the information useful. We each carried one bag that weighed between 23lbs-27lbs (10.5-12 kgs) depending on how much food and water we were carrying at the time. We found this weight pretty manageable and didn’t feel like we had to sacrifice anything we wanted to bring.

Thanks so much for those all tips above to hike TDMB, I know the sleep shet is 100% required and what about sleepinig bag? Is necesary to use in refugies?

Hi Cesar, Sleep sheets are definitely required for the refuges, but you do not need a sleeping bag. Refuges will typically provide a blanket and a pillow. Have a great trip!

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We’re Emily and Ian, outdoor lovers and planning nerds who live in Boulder, Colorado. The only thing we love more than researching and mapping out our next adventure, is actually being out there on the trail. Between the two of us, we’ve been to over 30 countries, and much of our travel in these countries has been on two feet or two wheels. When we’re not in a far-flung destination, we spend a lot of time exploring the amazing camping, hiking, and biking destinations in our home state of Colorado. Learn More About Us

Tour du Mont Blanc

West highland way, laugavegur trail, walker's haute route, coast to coast walk, national parks.

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Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc: An Overview Guide

Top tips and recommendations to hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

[Updated April 2020]

This post contains affiliate links for which Expedition Wildlife may receive a commission (where applicable) at no additional cost to you.

Tour du Mont Blanc Statistics

Distance Total:   105 miles (170 kilometers).

Total Elevation Gain :  8,900 meters (29,200 feet).

Total Elevation Loss :  9,100 meters (29,855 feet).

Duration :  11 days .

Physical Difficulty Level :  High  – the consistent elevation gain and loss requires hikers to be in good physical shape prior to the trek.

Mental Difficulty Level :  Low  – well-marked trails, ample food and lodging availability, and lack of isolation on the trail give hikers a better peace of mind.

Gear Necessity : Good hiking shoes and trekking poles will be your most cherished pieces of gear on the TMB. Acquire sturdy layers, especially a high quality rain coat and rain pants.

Recommended Guides:  Cicerone’s  T rekking the Tour of Mont Blanc by Kev Reynolds is an essential, step-by-step guide to the trail. *This is our recommended guide to take with you on the trail!!*

The Tour du Mont Blanc website ,  montourdumontblanc.com   has information about all of the refuges and their contact information and availability.  The Tour du Mont Blanc Facebook page  is a great place to ask others about their experiences and recommendations for the trail as well as keep up with trail conditions and news as you prepare for your journey around Mont Blanc.

Click the Google Maps image to see all the stages listed on this trek.

About Mont Blanc and the Tour

About the tmb: a quick look.

The  Tour du Mont Blanc (aka the “TMB”) traverses the alpine environment surrounding the stunning and imposing Mont Blanc. It leads through three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland.

This famous trek has been listed as one of the top long-distance treks in the world  time and time again, and for good reason.

The elevation gain and loss are what make this trek more challenging, but overall the path is well-worn, well-marked, and wide enough that serious safety issues largely aren’t a concern.

Distinctive yellow diamonds with “TMB” inscribed in the center and red-and-white blaze marks are your hiking route markers. Note that some of these markers look like street signs, with a red and white blaze, and a direction towards a specific location. Because of this, knowing the main points along your hiking route will come in handy throughout the day.

You’ll walk through sweet towns, into remote mountain passes, through cow and sheep paddocks, along beautiful streams, and so much more. If you love hiking, this is definitely a trek for you!

About the Mont Blanc: A Quick Look

Mont Blanc is the symbol of the Alps, stretching high above the valley and imposing over everything in its wake.

The Mont Blanc, meaning “white mountain” after its year-round white peaks and glaciers, stands at 15,771 feet (4,807 meters) and is the tallest mountain in the Alps and Europe , outside of those found in Russia. Quite literally during this trek,  you will ascend and descend the equivalent of about 8 mountains , so the elevation gain and loss throughout the trek is no joke!

The Mont Blanc had been circumnavigated through its adjoining valleys and mountains by people for centuries. It wasn’t until 1786 that two men, Jacques Balmat and Dr. Michel Paccard, summited the beast.

While you won’t summit the Mont Blanc on this trek (summiting is for those with mountaineering experience, a permit, and (usually) a guide), you’ll certainly experience everything this beautiful region and its people have to offer.

Follow the yellow diamonds labeled “TMB” for “Tour du Mont Blanc,” or the red-and-white blaze paint, as your route throughout the duration of the trek. Photo by Christa Rolls

Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc: An Overview

The Tour du Mont Blanc was a shock to my system after hiking the wilderness trails of Washington State.

This is a hut-to-hut hike

Most people “hut-hike,” or hike from hut (or hotel) to hut. Tent camping is limited along most sections of the TMB, including in the Vallee de l’Arve, the Vallee des Galciers, and in the Swiss and Italian valleys along the route.

The TMB is very popular

The trail will be busy – and I mean BUSY, especially in summertime. If you’re looking for more solitude, you won’t find wilderness or alone-time here. However, the experiences with your fellow hikers and the sights you will see make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Directionality matters

The most common direction of travel is  counterclockwise . This affords hikers the best views of the surrounding valleys as you come over the handful of passes from the west. However, it is, of course, possible to hike clockwise and go against the flow of traffic.

Chamonix is the popular starting point

Most people use  Chamonix  as their home base. It is a resort and mountain-side town famous for its association with the Mont Blanc.

The tramway that takes visitors halfway up the mountain to the Nid D’Aigle for the Mont Blanc views is popular among day visitors. The Tour du Mont Blanc trail itself, however, officially starts in Les Houches, a quick bus ride outside of Chamonix.

Weather can change quickly in the mountains

If the weather looks bad, DON’T opt for the high routes along the trail, such as through the Col de Tricot to Refuge de Miage.

Of course, if you choose to stay at this refuge and others along high routes, this will prove more difficult to avoid. The route is very exposed and can be dangerous in inclement weather.

On the first day, we ended up taking the low route through Bionnassay because thunder and lightning shrouded the mountains the entire day of our hike. Don’t worry, you’ll still have a beautiful hike on the low routes!

Dark thunderclouds shroud the mountains over Les Houches on day one of our trek. Photo by Christa Rolls

When to Go/Best Season to Hike the TMB

Late June to Late September  i s the typical time frame for hiking the TMB . This is entirely dependent on snow leftover from the previous season and winter weather that comes into the mountains in the autumn.

The high season is July and August, largely because of the more reliable weather and because this is the prime vacation period for most European countries.

The weather is very unpredictable in the mountains and can change extremely quickly. Keep this in mind as you plan your trip.

The Refuges, gites, and hotels will begin to open in June and will remain stocked and open in September. If snowy weather comes in early, it is possible for accommodations to close their doors early. A lot of these places require mules or helicopters to re-stock, or driving along winding mountain roads, hence why they might close earlier in inclement weather.

Avoid Ultra-Trail Season, if possible

The end of August is the ultra-marathon race around the TMB (the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc).

I recommend avoiding traveling during this time (unless you plan to do the Ultra, of course!). Otherwise, book your accommodation ahead of time, yield to runners, and prepare for things to be busy.

Even at the beginning of August, we experienced snow and cold, windy weather on the Col de la Seigne high pass. Photo by Christa Rolls

Cost of hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Plan for around  1000 Euro for the whole trek , including half-board accommodation (which includes a bed, breakfast, and dinner) and lunch options and snacks.

Upscale accommodation and luggage transfers cost more

You’ll pay about  500 Euro extra  for more upscale accommodations, or private rooms, and luggage transfers.

Yes, LUGGAGE TRANSFERS. It might cost quite a bit extra to get, but you’ll save a TON on weight carried. Remember all those mountains I said you would have to climb up and down?

Luggage transfers are possible only to other towns that have a connecting road, so there may be a night that you wouldn’t have your bag with you. In this case, you’ll want a decent sized day pack (around 30L or so) to hold your lunches/snacks, water, toiletries, and an extra change of clothes along with your layers and sheet liner.

There are a number of options for luggage transfers along the trail – Mont Blanc Treks ,  Taxi Mont Blanc , and  AlpenWild   are just a few of the options.

Added costs at refuges

Contact your on-trail accommodations to see whether you are required to bring your own linens and towel. Some will provide these to you at extra cost, and others you must provide for yourself.

In the event that you need to provide them for yourself, purchase a travel sheet liner   and a  lightweight, packable travel towel .

We didn’t experience issues with bed bugs, but note that the blankets provided in refuges and gites aren’t washed between uses. This is why you would need the cover sheet.

Money on the trail

You will switch from Euro to Swiss Francs (CHF) along the trail. Swiss accommodations will usually accept Euro, but if you change out for CHF ahead of time you’ll be guaranteed a better rate.

When you contact the refuges for your reservation, ask them ahead of time if they accept credit card. Many locations outside of main cities do not accept them. People have also noted that the Swiss territory, in comparison to the French and Italian sides, are comparatively more expensive.

Banks and ATMs can be found in Chamonix, Les Houches, Les Contamines, Courmayeur, and La Fouly.

The mountains and surrounding scenery is stunning at every turn along the Tour du Mont Blanc. This is the view walking up the Bon Nant Torr. Photo by Christa Rolls

Getting to Chamonix

Again, Chamonix is the primary location where people stay to prepare for the Tour du Mont Blanc trek. The trailhead, however, starts in Les Houches, so select which town you prefer. Chamonix is busier, but also has more shopping and other sights.

We flew into Geneva (the closest, large airport) and took a  FlixBus  to Chamonix. FlixBus actually ended up being an easy and inexpensive way to get to the trail, for around 30 Euro round trip.  OUIbus ,  SwissTours , and  EuroLines  buses will also make the trip from Geneva to Chamonix-Mont Blanc. The main bus station drops you off in the middle of Chamonix, about two blocks from the centralized, pedestrian walk of the town.

Use a Rideshare

If the timing lines up with your flight arrival, you can also look into using  BlaBlaCar , a ride-share app where locals will charge a reasonable fare for a spot in their car to a pre-specified end-destination. BlaBlaCar is a good option if you arrive at an odd time in the day, especially later, when the bus tickets are substantially more expensive.

Take the Train

The regional TER and TGV trains connect from main cities to Saint Gervaid-le Fayet. From here, you can hop on a local SNCF train, specifically the Mont Blanc Express, that goes to multiple villages in the area, including Saint Gervais-le Fayet to Martigny, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentiere, and Vallorcine. Keep in mind, however, that trains have the potential to be affected by any government shut-downs, as well as funding and personnel staffing issues.

Want more epic hiking destinations? Check out our post on other long distance hikes, such as the GR 20!

Staying near and Getting to the TMB Trailhead

Staying in chamonix.

Our favorite place to stay in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is the  Chalet Hotel le Prieure – Chamonix .

If you book ahead of time, you can get insanely good deals on their recently updated rooms. Inquire about getting a mountain view room, for STUNNING views of the mountains at sunset!!

The rooms are spacious, clean, comfortable, and have a balcony. The location is such that you won’t be right in the middle of the loud pedestrian walk.

They also offer luggage storage for a reasonable cost of 5 Euro per day if you want to leave one of your big pieces behind during your trek. This is what we did, as Nathan brought his camera gear for the second leg of our trip to Spain, but he didn’t want to hike with all of it.

The Carte d’Hote, or Guest Card

Your accommodation in Chamonix should provide you with a  Carte d’Hote , or Guest Card, upon your arrival.

With this, you’ll have access to free services, including the buses that transport visitors around the Chamonix Valley (including to Les Houches!) and train travel between Servoz and Vallorcine.

You really won’t need this if you are just in town to hike the TMB. However, there are discounts to the Alpine and Mountain Museums, car parks in the Saint-Michel and Mont-Blanc region, and the Richard Bozon Sports Center.

If you are using an Airbnb or staying in another kind of private accommodation, you will have to visit the Town Hall or Tourist Office to acquire this card for 10 Euro per person for a weekly stay. Again, this isn’t worth it unless you plan to extend your stay in the Chamonix area to visit some of the other sites and museums. This is why staying in one of the hotels in Chamonix can be worth the cost!

Getting to the trailhead

The official trail of the Tour du Mont Blanc begins in Les Houches, at the Telepherique de Bellevue. Hike up the forest trails from town, or take the tram up. The hike starts heading uphill right away – It’s a long and arduous hike nearly every day, so prepare yourself.

It is up to you whether you would like to hike to Les Houches from Chamonix or start in Les Houches to end your trek in 12 days in the Chamonix-Les Houches region. Some people will opt to go straight to Les Houches to spend the night.

We took the free bus (with our Carte d’Hote) from Chamonix to Les Houches to get us started.

Chamonix is a beautiful and fun town to explore before or after your trek. Photo by Christa Rolls

Where to stay on the Trail

Planning out your accommodations for the trail is quite time-consuming, and likely why many people end up pre-purchasing a guided or self-guided tour.

In planning out our days, I mostly stuck to what the Cicerone guide recommended for us .

The challenge is ultimately contacting each refuge/hotel and keeping track of the following:

Deciding Which Refuge to Stay in

Consider the total distance you will need to travel between your starting and ending locations, and whether that distance is feasible for you.

A variety of room types may be available at various locations on the trail. Private rooms with shared or private bathrooms to ten person shared bunk rooms can be booked. If you have a preference, ask about availability during your correspondence.

Contact Each Refuge

To contact the refuges/hotels, some will have online forms available on the TMB website.  Others may only respond via email or phone line.

If your French is minimal, emailing is a good option, as you both can use Google Translate if needed.

I contacted all refuges/hotels by email and created a separate “Tour du Mont Blanc” folder in my Gmail account to keep track of TMB-specific correspondence with refuge/hotel personnel.

How Much Money is Needed per Refuge

Determine whether the refuge/hotel accepts credit card or cash only. In addition, keep track of those you pay for ahead of time and those who want you to pay on arrival.

I kept an excel spreadsheet with the locations I still needed to pay cash for on the trail. This way, I made sure to take out the appropriate amount prior to starting our trek.

What you Need to Stay at Each Refuge

Certain refuges provide linens and towels and some don’t. Ask during your correspondence whether this is something you will have to bring along with you.

The Caban du Combal sits along the Val Veni next to Lac Combal, a stunning, clear blue, glacial lake. This was one of our favorite places to stay during our entire trek. Photo by Christa Rolls

The main reason why you would want to book accommodation ahead of time is to secure yourself a bed without the worry of having to beat everyone else to the refuge.

Some people do this – get up first thing in the morning and hoof it as quickly as possible to their next refuge site.

As I mentioned before, I’m a pretty slow hiker and would always tend to arrive at my destination by mid-afternoon even after getting up earlier in the day. It was for my peace of mind that we had spots secured. Even though it took time to coordinate, it was worth it.

If you don’t book anything, you have the freedom to continue on or stop short on your hike whenever you would like. Otherwise, you risk losing a deposit to the places you’ve booked ahead of time.

Check out the embedded map found at the top of this post for the primary recommended huts, hotels, and refuges along the Tour du Mont Blanc.

Food on the TMB

You won’t ever run out of food availability on the trail (unless you go in the off-season and huts are closed until the following summer). There are so many places that offer snacks and full meals along the way in summer.

Of course, some breakfasts and dinners are better than others along the way. Our most favorite dinner was at  Les Chambres du Soleil   in Les Chapieux. Even if you don’t end up staying the night here, consider taking them up on their fabulous dinner and dessert.

Breakfast typically comprises of a hot beverage, bread with butter and confiture (jam), and sometimes some yogurt, cheeses, and meats.

There largely aren’t kitchens that are open to visitors in these locations, so if you’re attempting to save money by just renting a bed and cooking your own food, keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your own equipment.

The dining areas of refuges at dinnertime will be for those dining in ONLY, so if you’re making your own food you’ll need to do that elsewhere. Some places are pickier about this than others. Dinner always consists of salad or soup, a main course, and a desert.

Water on the TMB

Because of all the grazing land around the trail, DO NOT drink the water in streams without filtering it first. Cow, horse, and sheep feces can be found all along the trails and streams on the Tour du Mont Blanc. Consuming tainted water can give you a nasty stomach bug.

You will frequently come across accommodations where there will be potable water to fill up your bottles or Camelback. Given this, you really only need to fill up for the day when you embark each morning.

If you’re planning any side excursions, however, and tend to drink a ton of water during your hikes (like me), it might be worth it to bring along a Sawyer Mini or Lifestraw , or water purification tablets . I always hike with a 3L Camelback on longer day hikes. Despite the added weight (every 16 oz. of water is about a pound of weight), this is worth it to me since I hydrate so much.

Some streams along the trail may stop flowing in late summer, but you really won’t have an issue with filling up along the way.

TIP: Consider doing some longer day hikes prior to your trip to gauge your water intake.

All potable water locations will be clearly marked as such with  “ Eau Potable . ”  Avoid water sources that say “ Eau Non Potable ,” as the “ non ” (meaning “ no “) indicates it should not be consumed.

Livestock of all kinds can be found literally on the trail along the Tour du Mont Blanc. Exercise caution when passing animals with young. Photo by Christa Rolls

Miscellaneous Tips for Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Be mindful about where you end up hiking.

And follow the TMB trail blazes (a yellow diamond or red-and-white blaze).

The extensive number of hikers and subsequent erosion has created some meandering trails that lead off of the main trail. Most eventually lead back to the main trail, but some don’t. These have the potential to create other unwanted trails from people hiking all over.

Learn some French

I know, I know, learning languages is hard. But learning a few phrases will make speaking to some of the locals a lot easier.

Many people will be speaking English on the trail, as people from countries all over the world will be hiking the trail. However, refuge personnel may speak less English.

Although you’ll pass through Italy, French is still widely understood in this bordering region next to France. In addition, the region you will be hiking through in Switzerland is the French-speaking side of the country.

At the very least, learn to say the basic phrases, such as: hello ( bonjour  or  bonsoir ), please ( s’il vous plait ), and thank you ( merci ).

Get good hiking poles

The consistent elevation gain and loss can be especially hard on your knees and legs. Hiking poles will alleviate the pain somewhat. These are my favorite .

Get good hiking shoes

You’ll be walking in your shoes A LOT over a two-week time frame. While good hiking shoes or boots can be expensive, it’s worth it to get a pair that fit your feet well and are comfortable.

I swear by my Vasques , and I never have to break them in.

Take time to explore some of the towns and villages along the way

You’ll come across some wonderful valleys and alpine prairies, as well as plenty of places to do a side hiking trip.

This is another reason I like to book my accommodation ahead of time. My mind is on exploring and taking my time along the trail instead of racing to the next hut!

Take time for a rest day

If you need it, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with giving your body a break.

This is a long trek, so listen to what your body needs and modify your hiking days accordingly.

For a halfway hike, Courmayeur is a good place to stop if you don’t have as much time to hike. Buses go through the mountain pass straight back to Chamonix, costing around 15 Euro per person.

By the time you get to Courmayeur, your body will likely be ready to keep on trekking!

Don’t take the hiking guide to heart 100% of the time

While guides are there to help you with some navigation, logistics, and accommodation information, everyone hikes differently.

The difficulty level and hiking times for each day may vary from person to person. I tend to hike an hour or two longer than the suggested hiking times, while some people I know hike about two hours faster than the suggested hiking times.

Be kind to yourself and recognize you can hike your own hike!

The sun is a welcome friend after getting snowed on in the high mountains! Note that layers are incredibly important for this trek, as the weather can change very quickly. Photo by Christa Rolls

Gear Recommendations for the Tour du Mont Blanc

My pack weighed about 10 kg without water –  your pack should only be about 20% of your body weight . The full list of the gear I brought is as follows.

Backpacking Gear

• Deuter Lite 60+10 SL Hiking Pack  with  Rain Cover  (her)
• Gregory Baltoro 85L Pack  (him)
• Small, lightweight, collapsible day pack  (for day hikes)
• Black Diamond hiking poles
• Petzel Headlamp
• Collapsible cup /mug
• T itanium spork other eating utensil

Food and Water

• Camelback 3 L bladder
• Lunch and/or snacks for day-time hiking on the trail

Clothing and Footwear

• Vasque hiking boots
• Three pair hiking socks ( SmartWool  and  Darn Tough )
• Reef flip flops  (or other house shoes)
• Three pair Patagonia hiking underwear  (originally purchased on discount at REI)
• Two hiking bras  (originally purchased on discount at REI)
• One pair Columbia convertible pants
• Two moisture-wicking long sleeved shirts
• Two moisture-wicking short sleeved shirts
• Patagonia fleece  (given to me by a mountain hut manager after someone left it for a month)
• Smartwool long john pants  (originally purchased on discount at REI)
• REI puffy jacket
• North Face rain jacket
• Columbia   Rain Pants
• Buff neck warmer
• North Face glove liners
• Prana ear warmer

Emergency and First Aid

• First Aid kit : alcohol wipes, antibacterial ointment, antidiarrheal, antihistamines, ibuprofen, Dramamine, antacid, epipen, gauze, medical tape, small round of duct tape, safety pin
• Hiking whistle  (check the chest buckle on your hiking pack – some have a whistle built in)
• Travel Insurance  – we recommend this for every trip you take!

Health and Hygiene

• Toiletries: wet wipes, face wipes, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, contacts and glasses, sunscreen, mini toothbrush, toothpaste, concealer wand (for after trip), sunscreen lip balm, collapsible hair brush, care plus clean bio soap (biodegradable; for skin, hair, dishes, and clothes)
• Lightweight camping towel
• Sac a la viande/sleeping bag liner , or travel sheet liner
• Sunglasses  and baseball hat
• Cicerone guide to hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc – excellent guide for the surrounding area’s accommodations, food options, alternative routes, and natural features
• Waterproof trekking map of the Tour du Mont Blanc

Tools and Repair items

Backpacking extras.

• Eye mask and earplugs   (if you are a light sleeper, definitely don’t forget ear plugs if you’re sleeping in dorm style rooms)
• Phone charger and battery charger pack
• Dry bag  and large trash bag to line the inside of our our packs (in addition to rain cover)
• Stuff sacks for organizing gear (e.g., one sack for kitchen, one for food, one for clothes, etc.)

Personal Items

• Credit cards and ID/passport

There are a few other gear considerations to keep in mind for your trip

• We did not end up deviating from the regular route to alternative routes or climbs, so we didn’t end up using the detailed trail map. If you decide you want to go on some of the higher routes or add climbs to your trip, consider obtaining IGN 3531 ETR and IGN 3630 OTR waterproof maps to assist in your navigation.
• We monitored the online forums prior to our trek to ensure there was no snow left on the ground. By mid-to-late July most of the snow has begun melting away. If you anticipate there being snow on the trail, bring crampons or yak-traks along in the event that things get slick and icy.
• Accommodations will provide you at least with a pillow and wool blanket, but they may not wash them or put covers on them. This is what the travel sheet liner is for.

Tourist Office Locations and Information

For more information on activities in the surrounding area, contact the region’s corresponding tourist information office.

Chamonix Tourist Information Center

Address: 85 Place du Triangle de l’Amitié, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Phone: +33 4 50 53 00 24

Website:  chamonix.com

Tourist Office Les Houches

Address: 9 Place de la Mairie, 74310 Les Houches, France

Phone: +33 4 50 55 50 62

Website:  leshouches.com

Courmayeur Tourist Information Office

Address: CSC Centro Servizi, Viale Monte Bianco, 10, 11013 Courmayeur AO, Italy

Phone: +39 0165 842060

Website:  lovevda.it

Champex-Lac Tourist Information Office

Address: Route du Lac 38, 1938 Orsières, Switzerland

Phone: +41 27 775 23 83

Website:  champex.ch

Get ready for an incredible display of stars at night if the sky remains clear. Photo by Christa Rolls

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the top treks in the world for good reason. It’s a stunning, fun, and unforgettable way to experience the Alps.

After your trip, consider visiting the Aiguille du Midi and Mer de Glace to see the Mont Blanc up close .

Tell us about your TMB experiences in the comments and feel free to message us with any questions or for more details!

Happy Hiking!

Christa and Nathan

About the Author: Christa

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I’m off to hike the TMB at the start of August so I really appreciated your article. Whilst we are doing a 7 day itinerary there is some really useful information in here which i will be using for our trip, thanks for taking the time to write this piece. Cheers and happy hiking!

Ceri, so glad some of the information was useful for you! Have a safe and wonderful trip, and please let me know how it went when you get back!

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Tour Du Mont Blanc Ultralight Gear Guide

Welcome to your tour du mont blanc gear guide.

Keep in mind this Tour du Mont Blanc gear guide is meant to be for ultralight backpacking of the TMB, for people staying exclusively at mountain huts or hotels along the route.  If you plan on camping during your stay at the TMB, you should review our ultimate backpacking gear blog.   

Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links on this page are affiliate links, and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission.  Using these links does not affect the cost of the product, but it does help our small business continue to run and provide quality content.

When hiking the Tour Du Mont Blanc ultralight and only staying at refuges you can get away with hiking as light as a day hike backpack I used the below which worked out great

Osprey Hikelite 18:

If you think 18L is a bit too small for your needs then the below 36L should do the trick for you!  As always make sure you do a thorough check of your gear and make sure that everything fits in your pack!

Mens Stratos 36:

Womens Sirrus 36:

Trekking Poles:

With Over 30,000ft of total elevation gain and loss, you are not going to want to miss these.  Trekking poles are a godsend for anyone especially if you have bad knees !

Foxelli Trekking Poles:

Whenever going on extended hiking trips you need to make sure have the  right footwear and the TMB is no different.  Inadequate footwear can lead to ankle, knee, or back pain and can turn what is supposed to be a serene adventure into a miserable experience. 

Hiking Boots:

Personally, I used hiking boots during my treks but I know several people who have hiked the circuit in trail runners as well.  You can check out our backpacking gear blog to check out our recommended trail runners. 

Oboz Men's Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boots:

Oboz Women's Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boots:

Hiking Socks:

Hiking socks are essential for protecting your feet and keeping you comfortable when on the trail.  Check out our hiking sock article to learn all of the benefits of hiking socks and why they are a must-have when hiking. I recommend bringing 2 pairs for your TMB trek one for trekking and 1 for sleeping. 

Darn Tough Men's Hiker Cushion Sock:

Darn Tough Women's Hiker Cushion Sock:

Camp Shoes:

You always want a comfortable set of camp shoes to slip into after a long hike, especially when hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc.  Having a pair of camp shoes is a must when staying in huts because you have to follow proper hut etiquette and leave your dirty boots at the door before entering them.  If you want to learn more about camp shoes, check our article on them!

Nike Slides:

Sleeping Bag Liner:

When staying at refuges, especially those that are dormitory-style you want a layer of protection between yourself and the refuge sheets.  A sleeping bag liner helps add a layer of insulation as well as keep any creepy crawlers away. 

Rab Silk Ascent Hooded Sleeping Bag Liner:

Toiletry / Wilderness Bathroom Kit

Whenever traveling a basic hygiene kit such as travel shampoo, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant are a must.  Also, I would also recommend having a bathroom kit with you because you never know when nature calls! Check out how how to poop while backpacking article for a complete rundown on pooping in the backcountry. 

Travel Toothbrush

Travel Toothpaste:

Travel Shampoo:

Travel Body Wash:

Backpacking Trowel:

Toilet Paper:

Ziplock Bags:

Water Storage:

With over a hundred miles of trekking you better make sure you keep hydrated!  If you want to learn more about carrying and filtering water when backpacking check out our article that goes over it all. 

2L Water Bladder:

Nalgene Bottle:

Water Filtration System:

Whether it be water treatment drops or mechanical filtration you should always carry a water filtration system in case you run out of water while on the trail.

Sawyer Filter:

Aquamira Drops:

When trying to navigate throughout a dimly lit mountain hut on the TMB a headlamp is a must have!

Having the correct hiking clothing is essential anytime you are heading into the backcountry.  You want clothes of good quality materials to avoids chaffing, blisters or discomfort when on the trail. 

Down Jacket:

Northface mens sierra down jacket:.

Northface Women's Sierra Down Jacket:​

Hiking Pants:

Prana men's brion pants:.

Prana Women's Halle Pants:

Hiking Shirts:

Smartwool men's merino 150 baselayer:.

Smartwool Women's Merino 150 Baselayer:

Men's Helly Hansen Fleece:

Women's Helly Hansen Fleece:

Rain Jackets

North face men's arrowhead triclimate jacket:.

North Face Women's Arrowhead Triclimate Jacket:

Rain Pants:

Power Bank:

Anker power bank.

Other Gear You Will Need:

Coppertone spf 50.

Carhartt Fleece Hat

Ultimate Backpacking Gear Blog

Best Hiking Boots For Morton’s Neuroma:

7 Best Backpacking Tools:

5 Best Men’s Backpacking Clothes:

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Tour Du Mont Blanc Packing List

By: Author Gabi

Posted on Last updated: May 14, 2024

When packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc you must stick to the bare necessities. I don’t care if you’re an experienced hiker or backpacker, every ounce counts. This packing list will help you narrow it down to what you truly need and what you should leave at home for the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc trek.

To a practiced backpacker, this tour may seem like a walk in the park but I can tell you from personal experience that as a somewhat obsessive overachiever who tends to hike obscene distances in a day and often thinks no hike’s too strenuous, I honestly underestimated the elevation gain on the Tour du Mont Blanc. 

I mean seriously, we hiked all four passes of the Maroon Bells Four Pass loop in one day so how hard could the TMB be?

Trust me, it’s REALLY FREAKING HARD but like in a really epic, awesome, would do it all over again kind of way.

The biggest factor when packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc is to know if you’re camping or staying in refugees.

Hopefully, you’ve already read our complete guide to planning your Tour du Mont Blanc trek so you’ve decided whether you’ll be camping or not (if you haven’t decided yet, go figure that sh*t out now by clicking here…err I promise it’s coming soon).

I’ve compiled a complete list of every essential you will need to pack to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc and I’ve also separated the things that you will need to camp.

First I’m going to give a few descriptions of the most essential gear but if you want to just see the overall pack list, jump down to the bottom of this post with our table of contents.

Table of Contents

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Packing for Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

It’s really important to consider if you want to camp on the Tour du Mont Blanc. While it may seem like you only need a little bit more gear to camp versus staying at a refuge, the little bit of gear you do need makes a tremendous difference in weight.

Backpack for Tour du Mont Blanc

If you don’t camp, you only need a 25-30L pack but if you camp, you’ll need a 50-60L pack.

Our packs were each 20-25 lbs/9-11 kgs for the 3 of us and we no doubt could’ve dropped that to a mere 10-15 lbs/5-7kgs if we were not camping at all.

I don’t regret camping, however, you must thoroughly consider this when deciding to camp or not.

Clothes for the Tour du Mont Blanc

First of all, let me recommend to not make the same mistakes we did. If you are coming to hike Mont Blanc, there’s a good chance you will not care to spend any days in the European cities (they’re nothing compared to Chamonix anyway). The days we spent in Paris and Copenhagen ended up being a slight waste of our trip but oh well. Anyways, if you want to have one nice outfit for Geneva or Chamonix, girls, you could bring a packable travel dress but we just wore leggings and a nice tank top like this. Guys, cargo shorts and a shirt is probably enough.

Note that you will be able to hand wash your clothes at campgrounds and refuges so you don’t need enough clothes for 11 days.

Let’s start with the most crucial, shoes .

Maybe we’re crazy or maybe we’re genius but we always hike and backpack in our La Sportiva Bushido trail running shoes. You might be thinking that they don’t have enough support but as another hiker pointed out to us, trail running shoes are designed for impact.

In addition to your life force, AKA your hiking boots, you may want to pack a pair of flip flops though technically you don’t need to. Refuges don’t allow hiking boots inside but they all provide Crocs in the boot room and if you’re camping, you technically could just wear your hiking boots to walk around. Nevertheless, we wanted to have our flip-flops.

Related: The Only Shoes We Hike In

Now for what clothes we packed for the TMB…

We each packed a rain jacket and a down jacket.

I know it may seem a bit overrated at this point but Patagonia jackets are always our number 1 pick. Seriously, I’ve owned the same Nano Puff jacket for 5 years and it’s still incredibly functional and warm enough for summer nights.

In addition, you must bring a packable rain jacket. This is Europe we’re talking about which means it rains a ton in the summer. That being said, we got abnormally lucky with the weather and you will probably need a rain jacket at some point.

For hiking, you’re going to want versatile clothing depending on the weather.

We each packed 2 pairs of shorts (Lululemons are our absolute favorite shorts for hiking), a pair of leggings, and a pair of hiking pants. The leggings functioned as hiking pants but also as comfy pants to hang out in the refuges at night and also function as a base layer if you want to camp as we did.

I also loved my soft and water-resistant Kuhl pants for hiking (especially if it rains) and hanging in refuges. When we were in the refuges, since it was warm and cozy at night, we all chose to sleep in our shorts. To sum up, versatility is key and basically, you’ll need 2 warm-weather pants and 2 cold-weather pants whether you camp or stay at refuges.

Tees and tanks are all hiker’s choice but no matter what your choice is, I would recommend 3-4. I highly recommend setting 1 shirt aside for lounging at refuges. Usually, the first thing you do when you arrive at a refuge is unpack, shower, and change and it’s nice to have one super comfy, non-smelly shirt back on.

We also each packed a long-sleeved tee/base layer. It doesn’t matter what kind of long sleeve it is, it’s mostly for if it’s chilly in the refuges or if you’re camping, we used this to layer up at night.

A sun layer is crucial. I wish I had packed a lightweight flannel as a sun layer. I thought that my long-sleeve tee would function as a sun layer but it ended up being too hot so I kinda just roasted.

Recommend sun layer:   Sahara Long Sleeve women or Sahara Long Sleeve Mens

Hat, Beanie, and Gloves

We never hiked without a hat on and even though there were only a few days where I needed it, I was SO happy I also packed a beanie for a day when we had to cross a pass in thick fog.

I usually avoid gloves at all costs but on that same day when it was really cold while crossing a big pass, I had to wear the gloves I brought and it made a huge difference.

Gloves we love:  Head Multi-Sport Touchscreen Gloves

You will of course need to pack 5ish pairs of underwear, 3 or more pairs of socks, and 2-3 sports bras for women.

If you are camping I highly recommend packing one pair of extra warm and cozy socks for sleeping in, it can get really cold at night even in the summer.

This was almost unnecessary but if you’re going to spend a day in the amazing town of Chamonix after your trek I highly recommend packing a bathing suit to enjoy your accommodation’s pool, spa, and/or sauna. We stayed at the radical hotel La Folie Douce and we’re so glad we did because the sauna and steam room felt heavenly after hiking 100 miles.

We’re probably the only people in the world that don’t wear sunglasses while hiking but honestly, we didn’t use sunglasses a single time on the TMB. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t though especially if you’re early in the season when there’s snow on the ground. Snow and glacier hiking are the only time I need sunglasses.

For the Trail

A few things are missing from this image. First and foremost…

Hiking Sticks

Never in my life have I needed to hike with hiking sticks. NEVER. Not once. But boy oh boy did I wish I had some hiking poles on this trek.

Unfortunately only 2 days into our hike I ended up with a small knee injury. Not bad enough to have to quit the trek, but enough to be walking with a painful limp toward the end of each day, and at that point, hiking poles would’ve made such a huge difference. It doesn’t matter how often you hike, how fit you are, or how many times you bagged 20 miles in a day, the Tour du Mont Blanc demands a lot, and often it’s simply too much too fast for your body.

Because if this I recommend trekking poles to preemptively avoid stressing your body too much.

I noticed many trail runners had awesome collapsable trekking sticks that I would’ve loved to have that way I wouldn’t be obligated to hike with sticks for the whole trek since they often just get in the way for me.

Recommended trekking poles: Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Poles

Assume it will rain on your trek. Whether it’s May or August doesn’t matter, it can rain at any time of the year in Europe, especially in the mountains.

Because if this, it’s essential to be prepared with a rain cover for your pack. Isabelle’s Gregory Wander pack comes with a rain cover which is nice but for our other pack, we got this super cheap one on Amazon that works well. Being so cheap I wouldn’t expect it to last years but hey, it works for one trip.

If you want to save even more money and are confident in the weather report for your trip, you could also not buy rain covers and just pack a trash bag as a backup which is what we did for one of our packs.

• Ziploc Baggies

In addition, pack lots of Ziploc Baggies. They are a great, cheap way to organize gear inside your pack and it waterproofs anything of value.

We used baggies for food storage (we even packed French butter in its own ziploc baggie), keeping our electronics dry, and then sometimes we used them as trash bags. Even if it doesn’t rain, there is so much condensation at night if you camp so it’s super important to keep things dry.

Water Bottle + Filter

We each had a single 22 oz water bottle and it was perfect for us. There are many water fountains all along the trail plus there are refuges so you will most likely never run out of water. Note however that we probably drink a less-than-average amount of water while hiking.

If you drink a ton of water while hiking you’re probably better off using a water reservoir instead.

There were 2 times when we did run out of water at 2 refuges because they required that you filter the water (at Chalet du Glacier and at Lac Blanc Refuge). We were very glad we packed our HydroBlu Versa Flow System which allowed us to quickly filter water in 2 64-ounce canteen reservoirs which we could either save for later or do as we did and simply refilled all our water bottles. I highly recommend a lightweight water filter like this especially if you’re camping.

Water filter we love: HydroBlu Versa Flow Lightweight Water Filter Package

Related Blog: HydroBlu Water Filter Review

Liquid Electrolytes

Okay, so you know how the TMB is usually done in 9-11 days? Well we did it in 7 days (and I wonder why I ended up with an injury) and this may sound crazy but we owe our success to liquid electrolytes .

We carry liquid electrolytes by EnduroPacks and swallow 4-5 sprays every 15-30 minutes followed by water. You can literally feel the electrolytes hit your muscles and suddenly the burning in your legs isn’t so bad as you ascend the 2,000+ feet of elevation gain.

We wished we had packed Emergen-C packets which also have electrolytes but are also a great way to support your immune system at the end of the day. We normally hike with these in the States and it helps us so much.

BioLite Headlamps

We each carried a BioLite headlamp . These are our favorite headlamps because they are rechargeable and have a long battery life.

These are essential for camping but are just for desperate times while hiking.

I wish we didn’t have to use them on the trail but on our last day on the TMB, we pushed slightly too far and ended up finishing our trek in the dark to get down to Chamonix Valley. Anyway, you really only need this if you end up in a scenario where you’re hiking in the dark. It’s up to you if you feel like you need to be prepared for that or if you doubt you’ll push it that far.

Travel Essentials for the TMB

Guidebook + map.

As we mention in our Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, the Cicerone guidebook to the circuit is not optional, it is essential. In addition, we chose to hike with the 1:50,000 Tour du Mont Blanc map since we were camping and taking so many variants.

This one is not necessary however, if you just like having maps on your trek or are struggling with planning your TMB trip, you can purchase the recommended map on Amazing by clicking here or they are sold at (and only at) the Mountain Info House in Chamonix. Remember that if you do get the map, get this map specifically . The other ones aren’t much help and are hard to read.

Book + Earbuds

I highly recommend bringing a book to relax at the refuge with unless you’re a social butterfly and intend to spend every hour of your evenings mingling with other hikers.

Related Blog: 25 Books That Will Change Your Life

Assuming you don’t already live in Europe, it’s probably a long flight for you to get to Europe. Be sure to pack some earbuds for watching movies on the plane and/or listening to music/audiobooks.

Travel Outlet Adapter + Charger

Whatever you do, DO NOT forget a travel outlet adapter. Yes, worst case you could get one once you arrive but save yourself the haste and buy it ahead of time.

We love this travel adapter because it has room to charge multiple phones at once plus you can share with other people if all the outlets are taken.

Travel Adapter we love: Travel Outlet Adapter with 2 USB ports and 2 USA Outlets

Note: For the TMB, you’ll only need to pack the adapter that goes into the 2 circular prongs as shown below.

On a similar note, don’t forget your phone’s charging cable, and be sure to bring 1 for each phone that you’ll need to charge. We only brought one and ended up having to share between our 2 phones so much that we never got a full charge.

Jackery Portable Power Bank

If it’s super important to you to be able to use your phone for the whole hike, I highly recommend packing a Jackery portable power bar .

These are especially great if you’re camping and won’t have access to electricity every night or even for refuges since older refuges don’t have accessible outlets.

Travel Towel

Whether you camp or stay at a refuge, you need a travel towel. Refuges don’t provide towels. Make sure your travel towel is light and quick drying.

Travel towel we love: Rainleaf Microfiber Travel Towel

• Travel Insurance

Besides the essential passport, the only other major document you will need is travel insurance. Travel insurance is super important to have in case of emergency in the mountains. We always use World Nomads travel insurance because they offer coverage specifically for adventure travel like hiking the TMB. Use the box below to get a quote for your TMB trip.

Toiletries + Self-Care

A few important things I’d like to mention are to make sure you pack something in case of blisters. This is probably the most common issue among hikers especially if you don’t hike regularly. Pack some moleskin but remember, you can’t pack scissors in a carry-on so pre-cut some different sized pieces ahead of time. 

You will of course need to pack things for a typical first aid kit like bandages/band-aids, an antiseptic like BLDG active skin repair, a painkiller like Motrin, and we carried Melatonin to help us sleep better.

For more common scrapes we love our Climb On mini balm which is also great for chapped lips.

Along with electrolytes, the thing I swear by most when hiking long distances is a massage ball. LIFE SAVER.

After our first 3 days of hiking hard and pushing ourselves an absurd amount, we took a rest day at Refugio Bonatti and rolled on our Pro-Tec Athletics ORB Extreme Mini massage ball for, I kid you not, more than an hour each. After rolling our muscles we felt almost as good as new the next day.

As I mentioned earlier, I really could’ve used hiking sticks when my knee was hurting on the descent into Courmayeur. Of course, an easy solution would’ve been to either tape up my knee or wrap it in a brace. It was really quite silly of us to come ill-prepared for a minor injury like this but I won’t make that mistake again.

Even if you don’t have any history of injuries while hiking, I highly recommend packing some kinesiology tape as a backup especially if you fastback the TMB like we did and aren’t spending any time in the few cities along the way. The day I needed sports tape or a brace, we had arrived in Courmayeur during siesta and the pharmacy was closed so it would’ve been nice to have it ourselves.

Gear for Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc

When you tent camp versus refuge on the Tour du Mont Blanc, it comes down to 3 things that add weight

• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad

Like I said before, I don’t regret camping but I do recommend a few things.

When it comes to the right tent for the TMB, it’s all about the weight. Depending on if you’re trekking with other people will factor in what tent you get however I will say that we’ve backpacked many times with the REI Passage 3 tent and considering the price, it’s a great backpacking tent. It’s a fairly light 5lbs, 10 oz and it’s waterproof.

If you have 1 or 2 people, I highly recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba , which comes in a 1 person model and a 2-person model and is one of the best, lightweight backpacking tents there is.

Sleeping Bag

For sleeping bags, we brought sleeping bags with a max comfort of 28°F.  If you’re hiking in July and August you can get by with that however, having done this hike in the first week of September, we were a cold a few nights. I would highly recommend a four-season sleeping bag if you’re backpacking in shoulder season or just want extra warmth.

Recommended sleeping bag: North Face Cat’s Meow 

Sleeping Pad

It seemed like a lot of people who were camping on the TMB went with classic roll-up sleeping pads which they just attached to the outside of their pack.

I guess the benefit of these is that they’re a few ounces lighter and don’t take up space in your pack however, I LOVE our REI flash sleeping pads .

They’re only 15 ounces, really comfortable, cheaper than a lot of sleeping pads, and only take about 20 breaths to blow them up.

Shop lightweight sleeping pads here .

BioLite Solar Panel 10+

While I already briefly mentioned how glad I was that we packed our mini Jackery portable power banks, I think it’s crucial to have the BioLite Solar Panel 10+ if you’re going to be camping.

Now again, if you don’t care about photos and/or staying online during your trek, I would totally encourage you to just let your phone die and be in the moment.

Photographing our journey was important to me however and we also felt it was a necessity to be able to make a phone call in case of emergency.

With the BioLite solar panel , we were able to keep our phones charged for almost the entire 7 days of our trek.

Camp Cook System 

There are a lot of things I packed that I am so glad that I remembered and there are some things that I contemplated bringing or not and ended up wishing I had like my JetBoil.

Ohhh how much I wish I had brought my mini miracle coffee maker. The thing is, we did not plan our TMB circuit very effectively. Truth be told, there are a few really good resources out there that tell you everything you need to know about planning your Tour Du Mont Blanc trek which is why we’ve created a complete guide planning the TMB.

We didn’t comprehend how few and far between all the huts and towns are and didn’t account for the fact that most refugees don’t allow camping at the refuge. Hence we assumed we’d be able to grab an espresso every morning when we passed a refuge when in reality there were some days where camping put us in locations far from any source of coffee.

Okay, so I’m probably making way too big of a deal of this because out of the 7 mornings we were on the trail, we only had 2 mornings without coffee but hey, I’m an American and I can’t function without my coffee first thing in the morning so those 2 mornings were traumatic. If you aren’t obsessed with coffee like I am, maybe you can do without this.

I also wished we had packed a cook system for more than just coffee.

As I mentioned previously, we did not have nearly enough information when planning the camping part of the TMB and even though this is known to be the most luxurious eating experience of all backpacking trips, we ended up starving on multiple nights. The problem is that if you miss lunchtime (which usually ends at 3 pm) at refuges and haven’t picked up food supplies to eat your food for dinner, most refuges won’t serve you food unless you are participating in dinner which is often 20-30 Euro per person and is at a set time of day.

Oh, how we wished we were able to cook our food on those nights. It would have given us way more food options for dinner because while a baguette and salami are delicious in Europe, we started to get sick of salami after eating it every day for lunch and dinner.

Recommended camp stove system: MSR Pocket Rocket Stove + TOAKS Titanium 750 ml Pot .

If you are camping and want to save money and not eat at a refuge for every meal, I highly recommend packing an MSR pocket rocket , which is super tiny and lightweight, and 1 small, light camp pot that functions for cooking food or heating water such as the TOAKS titanium 750 ml pot .

Combine this with a mini butane canister which you can get from dozens of stores in Chamonix and you’ve got yourself some sustainability to feed yourself anytime anywhere.

We would’ve packed some Kuju Coffee pocket pour-over packs as well which are pre-ground small batches, disposable pour-overs that require nothing but a cup and hot water.

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The Complete TMB Packing List

Travel essentials.

• 1 : 50,000 Tour du Mont Blanc Map
• Audiobook + book
• Optional: Playing cards
• Travel towel
• Packable tote bag (for carrying valuables around town on rest days)
• Travel outlet adapter
• Charging cable
• Optional: Jackery portable power bank

For Camping

• Sleeping bags
• Sleeping pads
• BioLite Solar Panel
• Knife (Purchase on arrival if you only travel with a carry-on)
• Optional: MSR Pocket Rockets stove
• Optional: Lightweight, versatile camp pot
• Optional: Kuju Coffee Pocket Pour Over Packs
• Hiking sticks ( Collapsable poles recommended )
• Rain covers
• At least one 24 oz water bottle (or water reservoir)
• Water Filtration System (Recommended: HydroBlu Versa Flow Lightweight Water Filter System )
• BioLite headlamps
• Liquid electrolytes (essential)
• Emergen-C packets
• Rain jacket
• Down jacket
• Hat + beanie
• 2 pairs of shorts 
• 2 pairs of pants
• 5-6 underwear + 2-3 sports bras
• 3-4 socks (Pack 1 extra warm pair if camping)
• 3 hiking tees/tanks
• 1 pair of base layers
• Hiking shoes
• Optional: Flip-flops
• Optional: Travel dress/city wear
• Bathing suit

Toiletries + Self Care

• BLDG Active skin repair
• First aid kit 
• Bandages/band-aids
• Climb On Mini Bar or lip balm
• Pro-Tec Athletics Massage Ball (Mini)
• Sports tape and/or Ace bandage
• Essential oils
• Optional: Nail clippers

My Camera Picks for Backpacking

• Sony A6300 Mirrorless Camera
• Backup batteries + battery charger
• 64 gb SansDisk Extreme PRO SD card
• Jobi GorillaPod 1k Tripod

Alrightyyyy I hope this helped take all the stress out of packing for the Tour du Mont Blanc. And remember, this is Europe, not a third-world destination so if you forget something, just remember you’ll be able to replace it with no problem once you get to your starting city of Chamonix or Courmayeur…just don’t forget your passport.

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our huge network of TMB resources below:

Tour Du Mont Blanc Resources

• Ultimate Planning Guide to the Tour du Mont Blanc
• Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc
• How to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in Only 7 Days
• How To Get Fit To Hike

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Wednesday 9th of February 2022

Any recommendations for someone who wants to camp it solo?

Monday 21st of February 2022

I think you'd be fine camping it solo. There were actually a lot of solo hikers on the TMB and I bet within a day or two you'll meet some really awesome people.

Planning for the Tour du Mont Blanc

After reading this Trek article almost two years ago, I put the Tour du Mont Blanc on my bucket list and mostly forgot about it. Until this past November, when I started longing for warmer weather and snowless hiking. As I tend to do when I’m nostalgic for my hiking fix, I started researching potential trips. Since I had finished my section hike of the Appalachian Trail in August 2017, I needed new trips to obsessively plan while I was in the throes of winter depression. I decided that for this summer, I wanted a hike that was something I could do in one shot and not have to break into sections. And I really liked the idea of getting out into the larger world, and backpacking around the Alps sounded like a blast. So I started planning. All I can say is, thank goodness for Google Translate.

How to Hike Tour du Mont Blanc

1: overview.

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a loop hike of ~110 miles with ~30,000 feet of elevation gain (and subsequent loss) that circumnavigates Mont Blanc massif, a 16,000-footer in the Alps. The trail’s highest point is 8,700 feet, which is not high enough to cause altitude sickness in most people. It’s easiest to fly into Geneva (though there are many other options for transportation if you want to get creative and fly into other parts of Europe), and then take a bus or shuttle the 1.5-hour drive to Chamonix (pronounced sha-mo-nee), France, where most people start and end their hike. The trail goes through France, Italy, and Switzerland. It’s typically hiked counterclockwise, to make the elevation more gentle and put better views at the end. The trail has a classic route, with many variants as options to make it more challenging or, in one case, to avoid a section with metal ladders.

Courtesy of Flickr

It’s a popular trail for Europeans going on vacation during their summer break – July and August. Some Brits go adventuring on the Tour du Mont Blanc as well, but it’s pretty uncommon for Americans. Of the people who hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, something like 95 percent of them are either on a guided or self-guided tour. Unsurprisingly, it costs a lot to pay someone else to plan this for you; I saw anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 beyond the actual costs of the reservations. Many places offer the option of having your bag carried from hut to hut by donkey. If you’d like to pay REI $5,400 (doesn’t include transportation costs), you can do the Alps in style.

It’s worth noting that none of the guided trips and very few of the self-guided trips I found offer the option to hike the entire Tour du Mont Blanc . Almost every single one cuts out portions of it, and uses chairlifts to avoid longer ascents or descents. This didn’t sit well with me; I wanted to hike the entire Tour du Mont Blanc end to end, and I wanted to know where we were going and why. And I’m very frugal and the idea of paying someone else to plan my trip was physically painful to me, so I dug into it on my own.

The most popularly recommended guide book by far is The Tour of Mont Blanc: a complete two-way trekking guide by Kev Reynolds . It’s a comprehensive guide to hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, offering a lot of description about the trail’s surrounding landscape, with information about lodging, services, and towns. As a whole, they mainly offer phone numbers for each place of lodging, though sometimes websites are noted as well. I would recommend purchasing the book ($18) if you’re thinking about doing the Tour du Mont Blanc – it is worth the money. However, as a number-crunching hiker, it didn’t offer me quite what I wanted. The distance was only provided as totals for each section and the elevation profiles were so small, they were relatively worthless. I wanted something like The AT Guide or the Thru-Hiker’s Companion . As I couldn’t find this information anywhere, I ended up making my own mileage and elevation tables in Excel. I also ended up purchasing this map ($20); it took me a bit to find the Tour du Mont Blanc on the map, but once I did, it helped me with my planning process. There is also a really helpful interactive map here on the Autour du Mont-Blanc website.

For those who might want to tent camp the Tour du Mont Blanc, know that it’s more complicated than it might first appear. Not only can it be challenging to bring camping gear on an airplane, it’s illegal to wild camp along the entire TMB, except in emergency situations above 2,500 meters, including outside a hut. While there are often campgrounds in or near towns, it can make your mileage more complicated. Or you could do dispersed camping and risk the consequences of being caught – $650 fine per tent. Besides, who wants to carry a heavy pack when you really don’t have to? And showers every day can be so nice! There are a number of online resources available discussing the Tour du Mont Blanc as a tenting vacation, if desired. If I like the TMB, I may return in the future with a tent, but for now, I’d just as soon reduce the number of things that I need to worry about.

2: Transportation and Travel Dates

So first things first – what time of year to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc? Most hostels don’t open until mid-June, because there can still be substantial snow in the mountains up until the beginning of June. If you’re hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc in June, it’s recommended that you check that huts and hostels will be open and bring traction devices like Microspikes. Yearly snowfall makes a difference, and if it hasn’t melted yet, some sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc can be completely impassable in June. July through mid-August are busier times of year, with Europeans on break, and July gets more rain than August or September, though all services are open and you’ll have warmer weather. Mid-August through the mid-September are generally nicer, with less people, less rain, and cooler weather. However, many hostels close in mid-September, so it can cut down on your lodging and refueling options if you go any later than that. And oh, there’s also an ultramarathon of the TMB each year in mid- to late August, so you may want to avoid those dates; it will be an absolute zoo. I had wanted to hike in mid-June but due to work and other summer hiking plans, I was locked into hiking this trip in mid- to late-July.

I used Google Flights , Scott’s Cheap Flights , and FareCompare to track the cost of various flights. Google Flights is a good tool to compare different departure locations; for my location, Boston was by far the cheapest. I kept an eye on the deals and jumped at round trip tickets for $633 per percon back in January. Most flights to Europe during the summer quickly work their way towards $1,000+ for a round-trip ticket. Buy earlier, and keep your eye out for flash sales.

Our economy tickets include one free checked bag. For the flight there and back, I’ll be putting my backpack inside a duffel bag that can be packed down once we arrive. The first hostel we’re staying at in Les Houches will hold a small bag for a euro per day, so we may leave the packed duffel bags and some town clothes in a small bag with them and retrieve them when we stay there again on our next-to-last night.

Something that came up for me as I began preparing my supplies was realizing that international travel can make it challenging to take medication. As someone who needs to inject medication, it was that much more complicated. So, the bottom line is this: for traveling to Europe, all prescription medication should be in its original container with the prescription label noting it’s yours. For traveling with syringes, you will also need to have a letter from your physician noting the medical necessity or they could be confiscated.

Shuttles Between the Airport and Chamonix

Most round-trip shuttles between the airport and Chamonix cost between $140 and 175. I found this prohibitively expensive, so I explored my options for bus and train travel. As best as I can tell, there isn’t a train station at the airport, so you would need to travel from the airport to a local train station. There are more public buses leaving from the Geneva bus station, but that’s a few miles away from the airport. I ended up settling on the Ouibus , as it’s $47 for a round-trip ticket and they leave from the airport every two hours and drop off in Les Houches and Chamonix. They also offer free rescheduling of your ticket if you reschedule 30 minutes or more in advance of the bus’s departure, and have a handy app to help you navigate that process. It does mean that we’ll end up returning to the airport for our flight home maybe an hour earlier than required, but it’s worth the price differential.

Reservations

I flailed around for a while, trying to figure out the best way to put in reservations for lodging on the trail. I was overjoyed when I found the Autour du Mont-Blanc . This is a wonderful site, and it’s almost everything you need to plan lodging for trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc. They help you plan an itinerary , based on where you’ll be starting and which direction you’ll be going. Once your starting point and direction are established, it will show you the nearest hostels and huts by walking distance, and also provides a lot of information about the services at the huts and hostels. Once you create an itinerary, it will assist you in reserving space at all of those places that offer online reservations. It will also tell you which places you must contact directly. Between this website, Google, and Kev Reynolds book, I was able to locate email addresses for all lodging that didn’t take online reservations, and placed all my reservations without making any phone calls. Before leaving on the trip, be sure to print out your reservation emails as proof. I read stories of people’s private room reservations not being respected because they hadn’t followed the directions to print out their reservation email as proof.

For Chamonix and Courmayeur, I found hotels through online searches. I found the hotels search within Google Maps to be the cheapest and most thorough option. For Courmayeur, we’ll be staying at Hotel Berthod ; in Chamonix, we’ll be staying at Le Vert Hotel . They were among the least expensive options, and both have excellent ratings on Google and TripAdvisor.   

When I placed my reservations, I paid 335 euros and 20 CHF to reserve or pay in full for lodging; six of the 13 locations did not require any payment to make a reservation. Only two places required full payment up-front, and those were the two hotels (Courmayeur and Chamonix). All said and done, it was $800 each for me and my partner to get lodging, dinner, and breakfast for 13 nights; for three of those nights, we paid a bit extra for a private room. Other locations offered private rooms, but they were substantially more expensive than the basic hostel option, and we were unwilling to pay the difference.

Travel Sheets

Travel sheets are mandatory and very much desired for staying in huts and hostels in Europe. They provide pillows and blankets but do not provide sheets. Since there will be lots of people before and after you, it’s really the best idea to bring travel sheets with you. I purchased these synthetic ones for $20 and my partner purchased these silk ones for $33.

Most hostels have a place to handwash clothes and let them dry. We expect that we’ll be able to use a washer/dryer at the two hotels we’re staying at, and other than that, we’ll be handwashing everything. In looking for unscented laundry soap to bring with us, I found these dry laundry soap sheets. They don’t count against your liquids and can’t spill in your luggage. They can be cut or torn into smaller pieces for handwashing in a sink, and one sheet will take care of a small to medium load of laundry.

4: Safety and Communication

Mountain insurance.

When hiking in more mountainous places like the Alps, mountain insurance is recommended, which will cover things like the costs of a rescue team or a helicopter rescue, should you or anyone in your party get hurt badly enough they can’t self-rescue. It can also cover the cost of repatriation, which is the cost to return you to your country in case of serious injury.

After considering my options, I went with a yearly membership to the Austrian Alpine Club’s UK branch . They openly accept applicants from the US, and mailed me my membership cards. Membership includes mountain insurance, discounts at many huts and hostels, as well as a quarterly magazine. An adult membership starts at $60. They offer a variety of discounts for seniors, young adults, teens, and children. I ended up paying ~$110 for my partner and me, as they offer a discount for people who live together. With the discounts we receive at huts and hostels, it will pay for itself on our trip.

Health Insurance

You don’t want to be left holding the bill if something goes wrong overseas. Both me and my travel partner checked with our health insurance companies, to be sure that they cover medical care outside of the US. I was able to confirm it through their website, while my partner had to call the insurance company directly.

Plug Converters

For this trip in Europe, a Type C (‘Europlug’) converter will meet your needs, as it can be used with plug types E, F, J, K and L . I purchased this one for $12. You should check on your device or charger to be sure it offers both 110 and 220 volts (generally noted as 110-220 on the plug or device). Most items will have no problem with using a basic plug converter and don’t need a voltage converter (unless they’re high-powered appliances like hair dryers), but it’s worth double checking before you leave.  

Phone Connection

While most hostels offer Wi-Fi, most huts do not. Given the complexity of this trip, I decided that I’d prefer to have full use of my phone during my trip and opted for a 30-day international phone pass. AT&T offers both a $10 per day and a $60 for 30 days international phone usage passport add-on, though it does need to be arranged prior to your departure.

I did research into currency exchange and found that ATMs and banks are your best bet for withdrawing money in the local currency. Airports do offer it, but will charge a huge percentage on top of the actual exchange rate. I will be getting a few hundred euros from AAA before we leave, just to tide us over and make sure we have something in case of emergency. There are ATMs available in: (France) Chamonix, Les Houches, Les Contamines, (Italy) Courmayeur, and (Switzerland) La Fouly. You’ll need to call your bank to make sure your ATM card will work. Check if your credit card company needs to be notified about you leaving the country or traveling. Most hostels require cash; maybe three to four  hostels (all in Switzerland) take credit cards.

On the Tour du Mont Blanc, the predominant language is French; Italian, German, and English seem to be the next most-common. Since neither of us speak French, we worked on our basics using Duolingo. It won’t be enough to carry on full conversations, but we’ll be able to have some basic exchanges. From what I read, making an effort to speak at least some French is much appreciated by the locals.

5. Trip Cost

Our round-trip flights cost $633 each, and included one free checked bag; the Ouibus cost $47 each for a round-trip ticket. Total cost for 13 nights and 14 days in Europe came out to $1,535 per person, excluding incidentals and lunch, including RT flight, RT bus between airport and Chamonix, mountain insurance, and lodging with dinner and breakfast included.

*Featured image thanks to Flickr

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To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

Hi y'all, I'm Aubri ('Data'). I'm a queer, nonbinary hiker, backpacker, and trail runner (they/them pronouns, please). I've thru-hiked the AT ('13-'17), the Tour du Mont Blanc ('18), the Vermont Long Trail ('18), the John Muir Trail ('19, '21), the Tahoe Rim Trail ('19), and the New England Trail ('12-'17, '21), and summited all of the Winter New England 67, and completed the New England Hundred Highest and the Northeast 115 peaks. I've also run multiple 50ks, three 50-milers, and one 75-miler. I'm about 50% done with the PCT. This summer, I'm hiking the JMT with my partner, and section hiking more of the CA PCT. This winter, I'll be working on hiking the New England Hundred Highest. I'm hoping to thru-hike the Walkers Haute Route in Switzerland and section hike the rest of the PCT next year.At my day job, I'm a data-crunching research nerd, researching everything from medical outcomes for hospitalized patients to social determinants of health. During the week, I'm trail running, reading, and doing trapeze, and on the weekends, I'm generally out hiking some mountain somewhere. You can find trip reports and ramblings at https://transcendingmountains.blog/

This is a really informative post. Thanks for pulling all this together and sharing it.

Thanks for all the effort you have put into this; it will be a big help to many. Will look forward to reading about the trip after you return home…

You did a great job researching your trip and finding a way to keep the costs down. It’s hard to do all of this sight unseen.

I hiked part of the Tour du Mont Blanc when I did the GR5 (Holland to Nice, France). The Alps are amazing! Be prepared to be blown away by the beauty of it all. And I loved staying in the hostels on the trail. Les Houches (“lays hoosch”) sounds very familiar to me, so I assume I stayed there.

Please post a follow up report after your adventure. We’re all living vicariously through you.

Great post! Hope your trip was a blast.

Very informative, comprehensive and meticulous. Looking forward to your post on experience after the adventure !

Fantastic post! I’m planning my solo TMB for first week of july and I had very useful information from you. Thank you very much.

Very informative blog. We are doing the hike in August 2019 and done with most of our reservations. I wish I had come across your blog earlier. It would have saved us so much time 🙂

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• Gear List for the Tour Du Mont Blanc

Essentials: boots, waterproofs & a warm hat

The most important thing to take is good quality three-season walking boots . It doesn’t matter if they are leather or fabric, but they need to fit perfectly and be worn in: if not, you will get blisters and this is very likely to ruin your trek.

The second most important bit of gear is good quality waterproof jacket and trousers . As with boots, it is false economy to go cheap. If you find yourself in a heavy rain storm cheap waterproofs, like a pac-a-mac or poncho, will be useless. And if it is cold – which is highly likely at the mountain passes – it can be very dangerous. Most people are aware of Gore-Tex, but there are lots of other materials used to make high-quality waterproofs. You can also get plenty of information on the internet about which waterproofs are the best for your needs. If you need to economise, then do so on the waterproof trousers – a simple pair of non-breathable waterproofs would be OK if you only use them occasionally.

Sun hat, sun cream and sun glasses are really important as the sun is very intense – particularly as you climb to higher altitudes . It is very easy to get sun-stroke if you don’t cover your head.

Lastly is a warm hat and gloves . Hopefully the weather will be fine and you will complete the TMB in shorts and T shirts. However, if the weather comes in you need to be prepared: it can turn very cold very quickly and even in August it is not unusual to find snow at the passes after a frontal rain storm.

Recommended equipment: it doesn’t have to be expensive

Layered clothing is generally seen as the most sensible way to dress. It may be chilly when you first set off (it is not uncommon to be 7 degrees centigrade in the early morning) and yet within half an hour you will have warmed up and stripped off. However, as you ascend towards the mountain passes the air temperature will cool down. A mixture of T shirts, long-sleeved T shirts, fleece, walking trousers and shorts will be fine. You can spend a lot of money on high-tech breathable fabrics that wick your sweat away, but truthfully it is not essential and you could happily do the TMB in a shirt and warm jumper from a high-street shop.

Other stuff

A rucsac needs to be 30-40 litres and you are better having the 40 litre sac if you are doing one or two nights without your main luggage. This would be regarded as light backpacking and you just need to carry toiletries, a spare set of underwear, socks and T shirt in addition to your normal daily pack.

Other gear to consider would be walking poles, which are particularly useful in the early season when you may have to cross old winter snow that is still lying around. You will need a water bottle and two litres is best. A small first aid kit and any personal medicine. If your main luggage is being transferred from hotel to hotel then you can afford to take more, such as more clothes and sandals or training shoes for the evenings.

Laundrettes and what not to take

There are no laundrettes on the route, apart from in Chamonix so you will need to either bring lots of spare clothes or do some washing in the hotel basin.

You should not need a down jacket as the temperatures do not drop too low at night, though some people like thin goose-down gillets which can be nice to wear in the evening. If on a Guided trek , the leader will have a First Aid Kit, emergency shelter and mobile phone and so you don’t need to bring these. Hotels provide towels and bedding. In the refuges they provide duvet covers and pillow, but not towels.

• Good quality three-season walking boots
• Good quality waterproof jacket and trousers
• Sun hat, sun cream, sun glasses
• Warm hat and gloves

Recommended

• A range of walking clothes
• A good quality 30-40 litre rucsac
• 2 litre water bottle
• Small torch
• Sandals or training shoes for the evening
• Blister kit, personal medicine
• Walking poles
• Map, compass, waterproof map case
• Mobile phone

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Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Tour du mont-blanc trek – the gear with trip report snapshots.

Article by Dominique Winebaum including a review of the TOPO Athletic Trailventure 2 by Annie Cole 

Our last day hiking on the TMB  La Flégère to Les Houches - we gave each other trail names: “Ibex, Wildflower, and Gentian” - with a view of the Mont-Blanc.

Tour du Mont-Blanc Trek – 3 countries (France, Italy, and Switzerland), 100+ miles, over 35,000 ft of elevation gain (and loss), hiking the distance in 11 days.   This was my third round of the Tour du Mont-Blanc, with two prior editions in 2005 and 2010 with RTR Editor Sam.  

With 2 friends we trekked around the Mont Blanc in June-July in 11 days carrying all our gear. It was my 3d Tour and based on past experience selected the following gear, most but not all provided by RoadTrailRun partners at no charge for this article

Gear Covered in the Article

(RTR partners where indicated)

Backpack:  

Mammut Trea Spine 35L (Backcountry)

TOPO Athletic Trailventure 2 (REI)

AKU Footwear Selvatica Mid GTX  (REI)

Ultimate Direction :  Ultra Jacket V2, Ventro Jacket, Vellum Shorts & Nimbus Tee

Backcountry : Ripstop Trail Short & Tahoe 2 Sun Hoodie

Buff Sun Bucket Hat, Solar Gloves, & Half Buff

OOFOS, OOcandoo Sandals

Drymax® Lite Hiking Crew (Amazon)

Danish Endurance Merino Wool (Amazon)

LEKI MCT 12 Vario Carbon Running and Trekking Poles (Amazon)

This article is a follow-up to my RTR June 13 th article “ Tour du Mont-Blanc Trek – Gear Selection Preview ” – after completing our Trek with Annie Cole and Liz Durkin.  

The TMB has become an increasingly popular destination and all our accommodations were full but for our first night at Refuge de Miage even as we were hiking prior to the high summer season (we started on June 22nd).  Aside from the backpackers, we were among a minority of hikers having self-booked our trek in addition to carrying all our own gear.  Many hiking/trekking tour operators offer  “menus” such as self-guided but with reservations and detailed directions provided and with optional gear transport all the way to fully guided tours.

PC: Liz Durkin 

Overlooking Val Veni and Cabane du Combal where we overnighted in a room for 3 with its own ensuite bathroom, which also had a bidet, being Italy. For a hut the comfort level was distinctly superior although the ambiance was a bit lacking.   

I was truly grateful for my equipment, not everybody was as well prepared and/or fortunate to be testing and reviewing high performing gear on their TMB.  Making friends along the way sharing our respective stories was one of the many highlights of going on the tour .   

Post-Trek Gear Report

Mammut Backpack Trea Spine 35L ($300).   (Trion is the men’s version).

A mountaineering backpack designed for women, I reviewed the Mammut Trea Spine 35L back in 2019 when hiking from Rorschach to Romont, Switzerland (200 miles on the Via Jacobi).  Designed for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and trekking, I opted to hike the TMB with my Mammut Trea Spine 35L, primarily for its suspension system, aka Mammut’s patented Active Spine, which provides greater freedom of movement - shoulders and hips move more freely -  along with optimum load distribution.

PC: Annie Cole   

We all took part in the ritual of adding a small rock to the large cairn at the top of the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. 

Hiking 6-8 hours a day with a heavy backpack over an 11-day period can take a toll on your back and shoulders.  In truth, there were days I would be hiking without thinking about the load on my back, which I credit to Active Spine Technology.  The suspension system adds to the weight of the backpack (2 kg / 4.4. Lbs for 35 L), however, when carrying a heavy load as I did (12 kg / 26.5 lbs), the benefits of the Active Spine Technology are well worth the extra weight. The back has an integrated adjustment system to fine tune the fit of the backpack depending on your height.  

P.C. Annie Cole

Made with waterproof material, no need for a cover (unlike the majority of hikers’ packs on the trail), yet for added protection and organizational purpose, I kept all my belongings in waterproof bags.  Content is easily accessible via a large front zippered pocket in addition to the top of the backpack.  Like a traditional backpack it has a top pocket, yet this is a compact backpack so it has no mesh pockets on the sides.  I used rubber twist ties to hold my recovery sandals outside my pack and relied on a 2 liter hydration bladder, both making up for the lack of mesh outside pockets.  I used the side ski attachments to hold my folded trekking poles (when climbing ladders).  

Some days, I wore a belt pack for additional storage so as to be able to easily access my phone and to carry a small water bottle as well.  However, when wearing my Ultimate Direction Vellum short, which has a 360 degree pocketed waistband, I would gladly do away with the belt pack by storing my phone in my shorts while completely filling my hydration bladder with water. 

View from Rifugio Bonatti of Glacier de Frébouze and Petites Jorasses. 

The glaciers have considerably receded and the difference was notable since my first TMB in 2005 not to mention when I was growing up vacationing in the Alps (1960s-1970s) when glaciers looked like great expanse of white.     

I prefer hiking carrying my own gear as opposed to relying on a shuttle service and the load on my back did not create pressure points on my back or shoulders.  Backpacks would line up on benches in the morning for pick up by a shuttle service.

Auberge La Boerne in Tré-Le-Champ – little did we realize we would be hiking the trail with the ladders! 11 in total as we hiked to the Refuge du Lac Blanc. Thank goodness for my “compact” Trea Spine which is designed for Alpine trekking. 

Priced at $300, the Trea Active Spine 35 L is a bit of an investment for sure, yet it is made with durable materials designed for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and trekking alternatively.  A very supportive backpack with plenty of technology integrated - Active Spine - and which is more oriented for technical alpine adventures requiring carrying ropes, ice ax, or skis, yet it proved to be a great selection for my 11 day trek on the TMB and before on the longer and more mellow terrain Via Jacobi.  Careful not to overpack, I selected fewer and lighter items when I could do so – read on below for all my high performing and lightweight gear!  

AKU Selvatica Mid GTX ($190)

Refuge de Miage – airing my AKU after our first day hiking from Les Contamines (no cable car) and via the Col du Tricot.

Like my Mammut Trea Spine 35 L, I primarily selected the AKU Selvatica Mid GTX for its exclusive built-in technologies, AKU’s long standing as an Italian brand (it was recently launched in the US), and for being a good fit for my 11-day trek in the Alps.  

AKU’s motto is “to create the most comfortable and highest quality footwear available” with a commitment to reduce its environmental impact by manufacturing “85% of its production in company-owned facilities in Italy and Romania” and to “trace the geographical origin of 100% of each product’s components.” AKU calls it “traceability.”

To be noted, my AKU Selvatica Mid GTX boots were made in Vietnam.   

AKU is also well known for outfitting militaries worldwide and in fact is the supplier of the Swiss alpine troops’ official boot. My Selvatica is actually also a “tactical” boot and in that line as well as in the AKU trekking and hiking line.

I was fortunate that the sizing is true to size as I ordered the last pair of Selvatica Mid GTX available in my size just a few weeks before the TMB.  Likewise, the fit is perfect and extremely comfortable.  

The toe box is fairly narrow (in comparison to some models), however, its height adds room around the toes. I experienced zero points of friction though at first I was a bit concerned about the fairly rigid collar rubbing against my ankles. This proved to be a non issue.  In fact, I really like the hold of the boot around the ankles along with the shoelaces system, which goes beyond “mid height” boots hold such as the Hoka Toa I wore on the Via Jacobi or Annie’s Topo. Especially so with a pack and on rough terrain. 

Shoelaces glide easily through the webbing eyelets (no holes or hooks) keeping the foot securely and comfortably in place. 

The color of my Selvatica Mid GTX, Black-Light Blue, against the rocks on the trail leading up to the Col du Bonhomme (rain in the forecast). They are attractive and sleek looking which is always a bonus! 

A GTX boot with enhanced breathability, the upper provides a comfortable and secure fit while being protective.  To keep my feet from overheating, which can happen when hiking on hot summer days, I wore socks designed to help keep my feet dry – Drymax® Lite Hiking Crew (above) as well Danish Endurance Merino wool (below).  

The Elica Natural Stride System, which is an exclusive AKU technology, was one of the reasons I was pretty adamant about hiking the TMB in the Selvatica Mid GTX.  

AKU ELICA Natural Stride System

The ELICA Natural Stride System  “follows the anatomical shape of the sole of the foot and adapts to normal heel and forefoot inclination to reduce impact and strain.”  The sockliner, lasting board, midsole, and even outsole are all anatomically shaped.

We hiked the distance in 11 days which resulted in not overly stressing my feet unlike prior TMB editions where we often hiked two stages in one day. There is something to be said for moderation, yet I knew I could count on my boots for an uplifting pain free hiking experience.  I had zero issue with my feet the entire trek – no blisters either -  and enjoyed the overall feel of the boot as I would put one foot in front of the other.   

My friends started to call me “Ibex” midway as I would take off on difficult uphills for which my Selvatica Mid GTX are well designed for.  Agile, lightweight, supportive when carrying a multi-day pack, steady on the trails which were mostly smooth, but not always,  as I had secure footing on boulders (Fenêtre d’Arpette) and occasional snow crossing.  

In great form hiking to Fenêtre d’Arpette, (2,665 m / 8743 ft) -  I asked a French hiker with a camera hanging around his neck to take the picture with my IPhone. 

A hiking boot with a lightweight platform yet sturdy and secure, extremely comfortable and reliable, as well as durable, I am not retiring my Selvatica Mid GTX anytime soon. 

P.C. Liz Durkin.  Last day on the TMB hiking from La Flégère to Les Houches, via Col du Brévent (shown here).  Trail was somewhat challenging and it was a long day. 

Back in NH I look forward to wearing my Selvatica Mid GTX in the White Mountains  where for the most part the trails are much rougher than around Mont-Blanc, yet by all means, the TMB has its own challenges.  Happy Hiking! 

Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 ($160)

Review by Annie Cole

As I prepared for my adventure on the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), one aspect that concerned me was my feet. I have been plagued with a neuroma on my right foot for years, and usually, after about six or seven miles of hiking, I start to feel it and my toes go numb and I need to move them around in my boot. My friend and hiking partner, Dominique Winebaum of Road Trail Run, suggested that I try the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 as an alternative to my other boots because of its roomy toe box.  I received a free test and review sample from Topo Athletic. 

So in preparation for my trip, I got out in the New Hampshire mountains and tested the boots. I hiked in all conditions, (still snow in Tuckerman Ravine on Mt. Washington), and varying distances, the longest being 10 miles. I did not do any multi-day hiking. The boots felt good and most importantly, no neuroma pain. 

I was pleased with several aspects of the boots as I hiked 100 miles on the TMB over 11 days carrying a 20 lbs pack. The Trailventure 2 is a lightweight boot with substantial support and a comfortable, secure fit. It also is quick drying. We got caught in several electrical storms with rain and hail and I was always happy with how quickly my boots dried out (quicker than my hiking partners’). It is the non waterproof version of the Trailventure 2 WP,  which RoadTrailRun reviewed here . I did not regret not having a waterproof boot. 

The Trailventure 2 WP features a Rock Protection Plate, which the non WP version does not have.  However, the Vivram® XS Trek EVO provided plenty of protection against shocks and rocks that I felt I was not missing on the Rock Protection Plate.  I was happy for the great traction and protection of my outsole during my ascent to the Fenêtre d’Arpette, which was one of the most challenging days on the TMB, with plenty of boulders and rocks to cross over along with a very steep uphill and equally steep downhill!   

I have an average width foot and did not ever feel that the roomy toe box was “too roomy”. I was pleased that I was not bothered by the numbing pain of my neuroma. 

However, by the third day of the trip I developed large blisters between my big toe and the one next to it, and a few days later on a callus on the bunion area of my foot. (I don’t have bunions, just that area). Luckily I wrapped them all in Compeed® and did not feel them at all as I hiked. It seems I traded the neuroma foot pain for blisters. I am scheduled to hike The Bonds, an 18 mile trek in the White Mountains, later in July and I am going to take my Trailventure 2.  I would prefer a blister wrapped in Compeed® than neuroma pain. And as you can see, the sole and the upper of the boot held up well to the rigors of the tour and my hikes before in them. 

Annie Cole is an avid hiker who is quickly approaching 60. While the majority of her hiking is done in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, you might also meet up with her in Maine, Montana, Alaska, Jordan and the Alps. She is always excited about a hiking adventure. 

Ultimate Direction – Ultra Jacket V2, Ventro Jacket, Vellum Shorts & Nimbus Tee.

On the trail and at the huts/refuges, we met trail runners running the TMB in 5 to 6 days – it is typically 11 days. Ultimate Direction gear is more specifically designed for trail runners and fast packers - and ultra trail runners - with a line of running vests, ultra-light fast packs, running belts, and more recently apparel.   

Trail runner wearing a UD Fastpack 20L.

I was not trail running, just hiking, but had plenty of UD gear – two tester samples (V2 and Ventro jackets) and a running/hiking outfit (BD present from Sam).  I was quite happy with my UD gear which I reviewed in an earlier article

Hiking the TMB in 11 days, I carried a fairly heavy (when empty) backpack so it mattered that I was able to lighten up the load a bit – both my UD Ultra Jacket V2 and UD Ventro Jacket were extremely lightweight and both are packable into built small size pockets, as was my UD short and top.  In terms of my own experience,  UD gear provided added protection and extra comfort while enhancing my hiking experience. 

At the top of Grand Col Ferret (2,713 m/8,323 ft), barely time for a picture before the storm – a heavy downpour with thunder, lightning, and even hail.  

Ultimate Direction Ultra V2 Jacket 

In comparison to my friends' jackets, my V2 jacket was much lighter yet provided the same rain and wind protection, in addition to being breathable, which meant I was not sweating under my jacket hiking up or down.  Admittedly, cooler weather brought by the rain made it more comfortable hiking in my V2.  It has an extremely high breathability/ waterproof rating of 30,000 mm water entry pressure and 30,000 moisture vapor transmission rate, so 3x the UTMB race’s requirements.  RTR Review

It was drizzling on and off as we climbed the Col du Bonhomme.  This was the day the Mont-Blanc 90-km race was cancelled due to “extreme weather” which began as we made our descent to Les Chapieux from the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. 

Notably, the V2 jacket is very comfortable to wear being so lightweight and breathable, yet is also highly protective. 

P.C. Annie Cole. I made use of jacket's stowable mitts hiking down to Les Chapieux in the stormy weather keeping my hands from getting cold and numb.  

Ventro Jacket ($200)

While my V2 jacket protected me against the rain and the wind, I would wear my Ventro jacket for warmth when stopping for lunch on the trail or when at the huts/refuges. It features " Clo® Eco Vivo insulation which increases breathability by 30% without sacrificing warmth and is made with 90% recycled fibers". It has a very high warmth to breathability ratio and I agree!

P.C. Annie Cole.  Enjoying a cookie break - and my Ventro jacket + Vellum short -  on the high balcony route via the Mont Favre spur hiking from Cabane du Combal to Courmayeur.  

The view from our “cookie break.”  Glacier Miage moraine – “is a good example of the transformation of a white glacier into a debris-covered glacier, partly as a consequence of global warming.” Article  here .

I wore my Ventro jacket just about every day, however, the only time I reached for it while actually hiking was to the Refuge du Lac Blanc (2352 m / 7716 ft), as the weather was chilly.  

Lightweight, with full-on wind protection and plenty of breathability and ventilation - perforated back and underarms panels - this is the best “puffy” jacket I have ever owned.  I am going to get plenty of wear when hiking in the White Mountains  and I am planning to wear it under my alpine ski shell for warmth and comfort and for winter runs and nordic skis.

Vellum Shorts & Nimbus Tee

My Vellum shorts are truly trail running shorts, yet I ended up loving hiking in them though my other pair of hiking shorts from Backcountry were very comfortable too. I had been wearing a belt-pack around my waist in addition to my backpack to make up for the lack of an accessible pocket on my Trea Mammut backpack.  In it, I would store my phone, a chapstick, and a water bottle that I would slide in the front opening.  Well, since I could store my phone in the 360 degree pocketed waistband of my Vellum shorts, at some point,  I decided to do away with the belt pack and extra water bottle by filling my Source hydration bladder with water all the way to the top. 

It was also very freeing hiking in Vellum shorts as they are so lightweight and comfortable.  The length is on the short side with a deep split, yet the coverage is good. 

I wore the Nimbus Tee one day on the TMB as the weather was overcast and we had started hiking in the rain (I had removed my pants by then).   

Here are some of the features of the Nimbus Tee as this is a highly technical top:

Advanced Polartec® Delta built-in into fabric for wicking and cooling

Hydrophilic fibers pull sweat away from body and hydrophobic fibers dissipate moisture

Flatlocked anti-chafe seams

Polygiene® antimicrobial odor control technology

47% of fabric is sustainably made.  

I was amazed by the comfort level of my Nimbus Tee and that it was still odor free after a full day of hiking.  

I have been wearing my Nimbus Tee running and loving it, along with the Vellum shorts.  

Backcountry Ripstop Trail Short & Tahoe 2 Sun Hoodie

I really like the design of the Ripstop Trail shorts with its many pockets, 2 front zippered and 2 back pockets, 3.5 inch inseam, integrated and adjustable belt, and lightweight fabric which is 61% recycled nylon, 33% nylon, and 6% spandex.  

There is a bit of stretch and the fit is very comfortable.  I could not store my iPhone in one of the pockets when hiking as it was not comfortable there which is the reason I wore a belt pack in addition to my backpack when wearing my Ripstop trail shorts.  They are great looking and come in 4 different attractive colors. 

Luckily I had two Tahoe 2 Sun Hoodies as I wore them alternately hiking the TMB  but for one day when I wore my UD Nimbus Tee.  I would hike 2 days wearing the same sun hoody as I don’t tend to get overly sweaty and the perspiration odors from hiking were under control.  We were so grateful for a full laundry service at our Hotel in Courmayeur otherwise, I would do “laundry” in the sink of our huts/refuges when the weather allowed it.  

Aside from wearing “short” shorts, I was pretty careful about protecting myself from too much sun exposure, and this in addition to using sunscreen.  This is the main reason I opted to wear the Tahoe 2 Sun Hoodie throughout the trek (but for one day), namely, for its sun blocking properties, but it also proved to be a very comfortable top with a hood, along with the fabric being moisture-wicking and breathable.  I did not overheat in my hoodie though I would have felt cooler on hot days wearing the Nimbus tee.

P.C. Erwin: Top of Fenêtre d’Arpette.  

The Tahoe Sun 2 Hoodie is truly versatile when in need of sun protection. 

Buff Sun Bucket Hat, Solar Gloves, and Half-Buff

We all received a Buff Sun Bucket Hat, Solar Gloves, and Half Buff for our TMB trek from from Buff.  Annie wore her part of the time, Liz preferred her worn cap. I wore mine every day, and all day long, unless I put it away in my backpack due to the weather - wind and rain.

Airing my sun bucket hat at refuge de Miage where we had our own chalet-mazot.  

All the pictures in this article, even as they feature other gear, show how much I wore my sun bucket hat. It almost became the trademark of my 2022 TMB.  It provided just the right amount of sun protection and was comfortable to wear day in and day out.  The adjustable cord was convenient to keep my hat in place in windy conditions.

P.C. Liz Durkin.  Annie styling her sun bucket hat by folding the front brim and both of us are wearing our solar gloves.  Likewise, for added protection, I wore the Half-Buff around my neck every day hiking.

Along with the sun bucket hat, we all also received SolarGloves™ from Buff.  Versatile, I was at first skeptical that they would be sturdy enough for hiking over an 11 day period. 

Somewhat to my surprise, we all wore them daily, and felt they provided just the right protection against UV rays and from gripping our poles. This must have been the lightest gear that we brought along, yet it made a huge difference in protecting our hands both from the sun and from holding poles many hours a day.  

OOFOS OOcandoo Sandals ($100)

Lightweight with active recovery cushy comfort, I carried my OOcandoo sandals on the outside of my Mammut backpack (no mesh pockets)  by using rubber twist ties to hold them in place.  It did not take any room in my backpack!  In comparison to my friends who wore sandals,  the OOcandoo provides a better foothold as the foot is held in place with a hook and velcro strap and it has a full heel wrap. Also, it was the perfect footwear when refreshing my feet in the cold streams. 

Available in different colors, I find them quite attractive.  Truly versatile as a recovery sandals, I have been wearing them on a daily basis – walking to the beach, weeding, going grocery shopping since I got back.

LEKI MCT 12 Vario Carbon Running and Trekking Poles

I did not receive a pair to test but borrowed Sam’s, which I was truly grateful for. 

Sam’s review : 

I made great use of Sam’s LEKI poles stowing them away only when climbing ladders!

To conclude, one more picture featuring my brother René who hosted us like royalty at his chalet in Les Marécottes (just over the border in Switzerland) for 2 days after our TMB.

(RTR affiliate partners where indicated)

Apparel and Accessories:

Dominique has run for over 40 years, consistently about 25 miles per week at paces between 10 and 11 minute miles. She races rarely, but always surprises more hard core runners in her age group when she does. She has a 1985 marathon PR of 3:16 in her second marathon which, at the time, put her on the top 10 Swiss women’s lists. She is the mother of two grown children, both runners post college, and enjoys nordic and alpine skiing, hiking and trekking, and gardening. 

Some s amples were provided at no charge for review purposes, others were personal purchases. RoadTrail Run has affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased through affiliate links  in this article . These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'

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Tour du Mont Blanc - What to Bring

Footwear needs to be supportive and with a good grip as the terrain can be variable, rocky, steep and loose. Sometimes we encounter loose ground or scree type terrain and it is not uncommon to be walking through snow and heavy rain even during the summer. Boots are recommended, but there are currently some very good summer walking shoes available, which can be more comfortable on hot summer days. Trainers are definitely not recommended as paths can be uneven and having ankle support is beneficial.

A Goretex (or similar) jacket and trousers Waterproofs are essential and need to be lightweight and breathable and they need to be carried at all times even with a good forecast. Warm clothing is another requisite. A range of warm layers depending on the conditions and gloves and warm hat as conditions can change rapidly. A thermal, wicking base layer is recommended for comfort and ease of laundering.

We suggest that a layering system so you can easily regulate your body temperature whilst ascending or descending. Take a look at our kit list to help you pack for your trek and if you require any additional information please get in touch.

You will need walking poles. All your equipment should be suitable for walking on rugged paths at high altitude where the conditions can be extremely variable from hour to hour even during the summer months. On the Tour du Mont Blanc you can experience extremes of weather in one day from hot sunny conditions to heavy rain and snow so you need to be prepared.

You can take a look at our kit list to help you pack for your trek and if you require any additional information please get in touch.

TREKKING KIT LIST

BASE LAYERS

Short sleeve: Lightweight, breathable base layer made out of a synthetic fabric that can be washed and dried quickly.

Long sleeve: Long sleeve merino wool layer is a great idea for use as an extra layer if needed over a t-shirt. It is also useful to wear in the evenings.

Fleece or merino wool mid layer to go on top of the base layer this will give you a bit of warmth early mornings, on cooler days or when descending.

This could be with or without a hood, make sure it’s lightweight and packs down small.

Shorts: The majority of the time trekking shorts would be the best option for those warm summer days in the mountains.

Trousers: Lightweight walking trousers are a good idea to wear if it is cold, or during the evenings. Another possibility would be trekking trousers that are adapatable & have zip off legs so they can be worn as shorts.

There are many lightweight insulated layers available these days, this could be filled with down or synthetic material. Synthetic filled jackets tent to retain their thermal properties better if they get damp so we would recommend this option. This ultra-warm lightweight layer weighs no more than a fleece jumper and packs down even smaller! Great for cooler days, when taking a break or for refuge nights.

WATERPROOF LAYER

This is the most essential bit of kit there should be no compromise here! Gortex (or similar) lightweight waterproof jacket with a good hood and rain pants that will pack-down small. It is essential that both layers are carried every day as the weather can change rapidly in the Alps. They will protect you from top to toe on the foulest of wet weather days and also can be worn to give extra warmth from a harsh wind.

Good sturdy walking boots that offer support to the ankle or trekking shoes if you are confident on difficult terrain. They don’t have to be leather as these days you can buy ight-weight fabric alternatives that dry quickely. Makes sure they have a good sole Vibram or similar. If you are purchasing new boots make sure they are comfortable and worn in beforehand. Blisters could ruin your trek!!

HATS & GLOVES

Sun hat as the sun can be fairly intense at high altitude, neck protection is also recommended.

Warm hat, gloves and a scalf or buff are essential if you experience cold weather.

Hopefully the weather will be kind and the hats and gloves will stay at the bottom of the rucksack for the duration of your trek!

FOOD & DRINK

It is important to get your nutrition right, as you will be burning lots of calories each day, food can be purchased from local supermarkets & bakeries when staying in villages or from the refuges if ordered on arrival for the following day. It is essential you carry enough water with you so you don’t get dehydrated during the day. On some days it may be possible replenish your water at certain places but this is not always the case.

Day sack: A small sack will be required when opting for a baggage transfer. Approximately 20 litre, the bag must be large enough to carry warm and waterproof layers, essential kit, food and drink. You will need a rucksack liner to keep the contents dry and waterproof.

Multi-day sack: If you do not opt for the bag transfer service then a larger rucksack will be needed of approx. 28 - 35 litre. Rucksack liner will also be needed.

REFUGE NIGHTS

When staying in the mountain refuges you will need a few extra items as bag transfer would not be available in the remote locations. You will need travel towel, toiletries, head torch, ear plugs and a sleeping bag liner.

The majority of the time you will be staying in good quality hotels therefore it is easy to wash and dry kit through before the next day. Hotels will provide towels and soap.

OTHER ESSENTIALS

• Map, route cards, compass, altimeter if self guided
• Basic medical kit including blister plasters, sunscreen & lip salve
• Essential medication
• Trekking insurance
• Money (cash and credit cards)
• Passport and travel documents

RECOMMENDED ITEMS

• Trekking poles, very useful to help on the ascents and save knees on the descent
• Pocket knife
• Mobile phone and charger
• Travel adapter
• Water purifying tablets
• Sleeping sheet, travel towel, head torch & ear plugs for mountain huts

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Tour du Mont Blanc Shortcuts: Tips for a Quicker Trek

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Discover the time-saving and energy-efficient tour du mont blanc shortcuts, including gondolas and bus services, that can help you conquer the challenging terrain of the iconic hiking trail.

Not every hiker needs a shortcut, but let’s face it…hiking 3,000 ft downhill at the end of a long day isn’t awesome for everyone.

Morgan’s Video of The first TMB shortcut (Bellevue)

Trust me, having an out with gondolas or buses and other options make a huge difference in your hiking experience. ➡️ Plus it’s not always an option to do the trail as intended due to lack of beds at refuges.

TL;DR: Most Important Tour du Mont Blanc Shortcuts

• Chamonix > Les Houches: Take the bus or taxi to the base of the cable car.
• Les Houches > Bellevue: Cable car
• Tresse/La Chapelle > Les Contamines: Bus
• Les Contamines > Notre Dame de la Gorge: Free shuttle bus
• Les Chapieux > La Ville des Glaciers > Les Mottets refuge: Shuttle Bus
• Les Chapieux > Bourg St Maurice: Shuttle bus
• Les Chapieux > Various towns: Taxi Besson http://www.taxi-montblanc.com
• La Visaille > Courmayeur: Bus
• La Maison Veille > Courmayeur: Chair lift & Dolonne cable car
• Courmayeur > Chamonix: Bus or Cable Car
• Courmayeur > Bivio Rifugio Bonatti: Bus
• Ferret > La Fouly: Bus
• La Fouly > Champex-Lac: Bus
• Champex-Lac > Orsières > Col de la Forclaz: Bus (change in Martigny)
• Col de la Forclaz > La Peuty or Trient: Post Bus
• Col de la Forclaz down to Trient. Hitchhiking
• Le Tour > Charamillon: Chair lift
• Argentiere > Chamonix: Bus
• La Flégère > Le Praz (the village just 5 minutes from Chamonix): Cable car
• Brévent > Chamonix valley: Cable car

Much of this shortcut information has been learned from the fabulous facebook group “Tour du Mont Blanc”. Click here to join .

TMB Shortcut Summary

The gondolas and public transportation on the TMB can help you shorten stages, combine stages, save time, save your knees, and access accommodation options off the main trail.

You’ll learn about the public transportation options available in Chamonix and on each stage of the hike.

Additionally, we’ll discuss private transfers and taxis as alternative transportation options.

• Most Tour du Mont Blanc transportation options are only available during peak periods in July and August.
• Below are the timetables for Summer 2023.
• I will update the timetables for the 2024 summer season as soon as they become available, usually in mid-June.
• Use the 2023 timetables as a reference for the frequency of transportation in 2024, as they are typically very similar.
• Be aware of public transport and exit points along the trail in case of sickness, mild injury, or bad weather.
• Having an exit strategy can provide peace of mind and help ensure your safety during your TMB hike.

By utilizing public transit, you can save time and energy and enjoy a more comfortable experience.

Help Booking

I’ve done both DIY planning and using a service for self-guided treks. Both have their pros and cons. I want to share my favorite companies if you’d rather pay someone to book your accommodations and provide detailed GPS routes, deal with the huts and make it simple.

Final Verdict: Ways to Book a Hut to Hut Hiking Trip

Self-Guided Tour Planning Service

• [Self-Guided] - You're on your own once you start
• Must book in Oct to Jan of year prior to hike
• Fully done for you route
• Service finds and books your huts
• Maps provided on app

What we liked: The logistics of the TMB and other hut to hut hikes can be very daunting, especially if you don't speak Italian and French. 

Note: Lesser known trails are often easier to book.  

• Ease of route
• No finding or dealing with huts
• Tapping into expertise
• No waiting for slow hikers
• No feeling rushed if you're slower
• Less control of dates
• No guide on the trail
• Unknown - you didn't "plan"

Guided Group Tour : 4 Days

• small groups (<10 typically)
• local Chamonix guides
• all transfers/breakfast/dinner/accommodations included
• airport transfer included
• stay in the insanely beautiful Rifugio Bonatti and other huts at high elevation

What we liked:   Designed for busy people that want to experience the highlights of the Tour du Mont Blanc without having to take 2 weeks of their precious vacation time.  Everything is done-for-you and you can show up and relax in the most stunning mountains. 

Note: The standard price includes shared rooms in the huts.

• All transfers included
• Best price for a guided trip
• Local Chamonix Guides
• At the mercy of group pace
• Not the full circuit

DIY: Book Your Own Huts

• Cheapest Option
• Most Freedom
• Take side excursions as you like

What we liked: The challenge of it.  It's so fun to route plan, find trails and the huts you want.  Often it's not the expense saved, but the learning of the trail while planning that is satisfying. 

Note: Be prepared to spend some time with spreadsheets and wait weeks for replies from hut owners.  BONUS:  Click on the link to watch my 10 part video series on HOW to book a hut to hut trip.  It's a Dolomites hut trip but it's basically the same process for TMB. 

• Cheapest option
• Most freedom
• Learn the Trail by planning
• You must be organized
• Map skills are essential

• campgrounds can be crowded
• reservations often needed in advance
• Wild camping is prohibited or limited by elevation

Not really my favorite thing for hut to hut trails in Europe. The huts are quite often the best part of the hiking trip and the rules are so complicated about wild camping.

• Price is good
• More Flexibilty
• Wild camping is tricky
• Rules change
• harder and heavier pack

Are the TMB Trek Shortcuts Worth it?

Not everyone needs tmb shortcuts. but they are good for 👎🏻.

• 🥾 Hikers with some knee issues
• ⊲ Groups with varying abilities
• 🌏 Fastpackers Doing the TMB in a few days
• 💗 Hikers that enjoy the journey more than the destination

Below is my list of the shortcuts that will help you conquer the TMB. Let’s get to it.

Why Use Public Transit on the TMB?

If you’re planning on hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), you’ll find ample public transportation options along the way. Here are some of the most common reasons you’ll want to take advantage of public transit on the TMB:

• Shorten Stages : If you’re worried about the physical demands of a specific stage or simply want to reduce mileage, public transportation can help. You can grab a cable car to cut out a steep ascent or descent, take the train to skip a specific section, or hop on a bus to shorten the length of a stage.
• Combine Stages : If you’re short on time but still want to experience the entire trail, public transportation allows you to combine multiple stages into a single day. This can help you see more of the TMB in less time.
• Save Time : Sometimes, you just need to save time. Whether you’re running behind schedule or your feet are screaming, public transit can help you get to your destination sooner. You can utilize a bus or cable car to save some time and get to your next stop faster.
• Access Accommodation off the Route : Accommodation on the TMB can be competitive, and it’s not always easy to find a bed in your first choice accommodation. Public transit can help you access additional options, allowing you to find a place to stay even if your first choice is fully booked.

For example, if you’re struggling to find accommodation in Les Chapieux, you can always use the public bus to find additional options.

Public Transit in Chamonix

As a TMB hiker, you will most likely arrive in Chamonix and spend a night or two there before beginning your trek in nearby Les Houches. Luckily, Chamonix has excellent public transit, and best of all, it will most likely be completely free as long as you are staying in registered accommodation.

Getting Around Chamonix

• Chamonix has excellent public transit that is free with a Carte d’hôte provided by your accommodation.
• The Carte d’hôte provides free access to public transit in the Chamonix valley, including buses and trains.
• The public bus system is convenient and stretches from Le Tour to Les Houches, with rides costing €3 each without the Carte d’hôte.
• The Mont Blanc Express train is a fun and convenient way to get around, and it is also free with the Carte d’hôte.
• Be sure to ask your accommodation provider for the Carte d’hôte when you arrive in Chamonix.

More Tour du Mont Blanc Travel Blogs

• 5 Day TMB Itinerary
• Review of Global Rescue Trekking Insurance
• Best Self-Guided Planners for the TMB
• Best Time to Hike the TMB
• Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc
• TMB Costs and Budget Planning
• Paragliding in Chamonix
• TMB Minimalist Packing List

By TMB Stage

1. les houches to les contamines.

The Col du Tricot variant is the shiz. You get to cross over the Nepalese style bridge and eat lunch at Refuge Miage. You’ll want to take the Bellevue lift .

The Montjoie Valley’s free public bus system is a great resource for hikers on the Tour du Mont Blanc. The Les Contamines bus is particularly helpful for two purposes: reaching refuges past Les Contamines like Refuge Nant Borrant or Refuge de la Balme, and taking the shuttle to Notre Dame de la Gorge to shorten Stage 2 before continuing to Les Chapieux.

However, hikers should note that waiting at the Tresse bus stop may not be the best option, as it does not see frequent service. Instead, they should continue to the La Chapelle bus stop, which has a higher frequency of service and is a better choice for those looking to shorten the end of Stage 1.

2. Les Contamines to Les Chapieux

Start of stage 2: It’s flat and boring so you can skip the first 4 km along the stream.

The Les Contamines to Notre Dame de la Gorge shuttle: catch it at the tourist office or any other bus stop in town for free, ride it to the parking area near the church, cutting out approximately 4 km of walking.

3. Stage Three – Les Chapieux to Rifugio Combal

This is one of the best places to use public transportation. We were lucky enough to be able to get a room in Bonhomme and use the Col des Fours variant and skip all that.

Stage three of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers a few transportation options that can be useful for hikers. The first is a navette or shuttle bus that runs from Les Chapieux to Les Mottets, stopping at Ville des Glaciers as well. This is a popular way to avoid approximately 5 km of road walking out of Les Chapieux.

Additionally, there is a twice-a-day bus that connects Les Chapieux to the nearby town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice. This can be helpful for TMB hikers who were unable to secure overnight accommodation in Les Chapieux. By taking the bus in the evening and staying in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, hikers can easily return to pick up the trail in the morning.

Click here for Les Chapieux information .

Stage 3 Option 1: Skip the Boring Road

The Les Chapieux to Les Mottets Navette is one of the most popular public transit options and shortcuts on the Tour du Mont Blanc, used by many hikers.

Stage Three of the TMB starts with a lengthy walk along the road from Les Chapieux to La Ville des Glaciers, a small hamlet near the base of the Col de la Seigne. After crossing a river, the trail continues on a rough track to the start of the climb to the col, near the Refuge des Mottets.

If you’re staying at Refuge des Mottets instead of Les Chapieux, taking the navette can be a convenient way to cut out the final segment of your walk. Just make sure to catch the last shuttle at 5:35pm.

• Purchase your tickets the evening before to avoid sellouts.
• Head to the tourist office building in Les Chapieux to purchase your tickets.
• Either the Les Mottets or Ville des Glaciers stop will work.
• It’s easier to get off at Ville des Glaciers unless you’re staying at Refuge des Mottets.
• Cross the river from Ville des Glaciers and pick up a rocky track to the base of the climb to the Col de la Seigne.
• Riding to Refuge des Mottets is also fine, as you’ll simply walk downhill for a few minutes to the refuge where you can pick up the main TMB.

Stage 3 Option 2: Les Chapieux – Bourg Saint Maurice Bus

Good for people locked out of Les Chapieux accomodations. There’s a twice-daily bus connecting Les Chapieux with the town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice. 

Stage 3 Option 3: Taxi

If you miss the twice-daily Les Chapieux to Bourg Saint Maurice bus or don’t want to wait, you can book a taxi through www.taxi-montblanc.com or the tourist office in Les Chapieux or Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

This can be a useful option for hikers who were unable to secure accommodation in Les Chapieux and need to reach Bourg-Saint-Maurice for the night. The cost of the taxi may vary depending on the distance and other factors.

In June and September, you can pre-book a taxi from Les Chapieux to Bourg St Maurice, which takes about 20 minutes by car. However, places are limited, so be sure to book in advance and expect to pay the driver.

Here are some taxi options:

• Taxi Besson: 00 33 (0) 4 50 93 62 07, http://www.taxi-montblanc.com
• Taxi Gé: 06 13 63 39 42
• Taxi Aarthur: https://www.taxibourgsaintmaurice.com

The cost is around 60 euros from Chapieux to Bourg St Maurice and 75 euros from Bourg to Ville des Glaciers the following morning. Taking the taxi from Bourg to Ville des Glaciers is recommended, as this is where the shuttle bus from Les Chapieux drops off. It saves about 1.5 hours of walking.

4. Rifugio Combal to Courmayeur

Stage four of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers several useful public transit and shortcut options. One option is to descend into the Val Veny just beyond Lac Combal and use the La Visaille bus stop to reach Courmayeur or one of the campgrounds in the valley. Bus schedule here .

Gondola option is to avoid the steep and challenging final descent into Courmayeur by taking advantage of the cable cars in the last section of the stage. Bus info here.

Stage 4 Option 1: Bus

Try not to skip this section if possible. (It’s gorgeous)

Stage 4 Option 2: Dolonne Gondola

Take your time at Maison Vielle and get a little drunk watching cows. It’s a vibey place and then take the gondola down and go take an afternoon nap in your luxury Courmayeur hotel.

Gondola info here.

Courmayeur Bus : There’s a Tunnel Between Les Houches & Courmayeur

Courmayeur offers excellent local transportation through the Courmayeur circular bus route (blue route) operated by Arriva, which, combined with the Orange Line described above and Green Line on the next stage, makes moving around the area simple and enjoyable.

If you need to connect back to Chamonix, frequent bus service is available through the Mont Blanc tunnel. Several companies provide this service, so it’s best to shop around or inquire at the tourist office in Courmayeur.

If you’re only trekking half of the Tour du Mont Blanc, you can catch a bus through the Mont Blanc tunnel back to Chamonix from here.

Several bus companies offer this service, with a travel time of about 45 minutes to Chamonix. SAVDA buses depart at 9h, 11h, 12h, 14h, 16h & 18h, with a one-way cost of €15.

Click here for Courmayeur to Chamonix Bus Schedule .

Flixbus also offers affordable options, with deals as low as €5. Download their app to check their timetables.

5. Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti

Is this the prettiest part of the hike? Maybe. So don’t skip it!

This is for people who cannot get a room at Rifugio Bonatti or Elena (or the hotels in Lavachey). Basically you’ll do the hike to Bonatti, walk down to the valley and take bus back to Courmayeur for the night. Take bus back and start where you left off.

Bus No 5  from Place Le Monte Bianco runs along the valley floor of Val Ferret and can drop you at stop “Bivio Refugio Bonatti’. 

6. Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly

Not much to skip here. Here’s the Swiss bus info .

7. La Fouly to Champex

This is the section to skip if you’re on a timeline.

Travel Details? How to Get to the TMB?

The closest airport to the TMB is Geneva. Tip: Zurich is famous for losing luggage. I wouldn’t bring my expensive trekking poles on the plane because they get trashed or confiscated. Watch video here . Just go to Decathlon or another store in Chamonix and get a cheap pair and leave it for the next trekker.

✈️ Need cheap flight tickets for your trip? Consider choosing WayAway for these aims. WayAway is a flight aggregator that provides travelers with the best rates on airline tickets. Use the form below and buy cheap flights!

8. Champex to Col de la Forclaz

Not really helpful for most people. This is for people that can’t get a bed at Hotel Col de la Forclaz as well as all accommodation in Trient and Le Peuty are fully booked.

9. Col de la Forclaz to Trés-le-Champ

A few options here:

10. Tré-le-Champ to Refuge de la Flégère

Stage 10 of the TMB does not offer any shortcuts.

The gondola from Refuge la Flégère to Les Praz is a convenient option for hikers who want to cut out the final day of the TMB or avoid the long climb out of Les Houches by hiking in reverse. It’s also a good choice if you want to stay in Les Praz for more accommodation and services at this stage, and take the gondola back up the next morning to continue your trek.

The gondola departs directly next to Refuge la Flégère and ends in the village of Les Praz, from where you can take a bus or taxi back to Chamonix. The cost is €17.50 one way per adult, and the operating season is from June 10th to September 17th. Note that this option does not save any distance on the trail.

11. La Flégère – Les Houches

The final stage of the Tour du Mont Blanc offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, but the long descent in Les Houches can be tough on your knees. If you need a break, you can take the cable car down to Chamonix instead.

To do so, head to Le Brévent, which is approximately 7.5 km into the final stage. From there, you’re just steps away from the Le Brévent cable car that can take you down to Chamonix. First, you’ll ride the Brévent cable car to the mid-station at Planpraz. Then, take the Planpraz cable car the rest of the way down into Chamonix. From there, it’s just a short walk into town to celebrate your accomplishment!

Note that the final descent to Les Houches is approximately 9.5 km from Le Brévent. The cable car can be a convenient option if your legs are tired or if you want to save time.

Brevent Cable Car

Le parc merlot navette, wrap up: tmb shortcuts.

The Tour du Mont Blanc offers numerous gondolas and buses that can help hikers save time and energy, especially during the long and challenging stages. Some of the most important gondolas and shortcuts include the Bellevue cable car to get to the Col du Tricot variant, La Flégère cable car, which can take hikers down to Les Praz and back up to continue the trek, and the Brévent cable car, which can cut out the Col du Brévent climb and save approximately 2 hours of trail time.

Another notable shortcut is the Le Parc Merlot navette, a regular bus service that runs from Merlot animal park to Les Houches on weekdays, which can save hikers from the long descent after the Brévent stage.

These gondolas and shortcuts can be a great option for hikers who want to customize their itinerary or need a break from the challenging terrain or harsh weather.

Need Help Planning Your TMB?

The fact I’ve had to write an article about this makes it a hard thing to do. It’s not a walk in the park to plan a TMB trek. I’ve done both my own DIY planning and paying a service to do it.

It’s up to you.

I want to share my favorite company if you’d rather pay someone to book your accommodations and provide details GPS plans.

Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

Tour du Mont Blanc is a challenging circuit that spans across three countries, Switzerland, Italy, and France. It is approximately 105 miles long and can take up to 11 days to complete.

Overall Best Self Guided Planning Service: Alpenventures Unguided

This firm is great for finding secluded variants (like the one by the La Gorge gondola), private rooms, and providing maps. They have multiple ways to hike the TMB from a short 4 day to 11 days and everything in between. You can also arrange higher levels of "comfort", i.e. private rooms.

• Glacier Filled Raw Beauty
• Wildflowers and Wildlife
• Food is Local and Delicious
• Most Famous Trek in Europe
• Variable Hospitality
• Serious Elevation Gain 
• Complicated and Tedious Bookings
• Not for Total Beginners

More Resources

Discover gear that elevates your outdoor adventures. As a physical therapist, I’ve curated product comparisons to enhance safety and enjoyment, perfect for beginners or those with weary knees.

Physical Therapist Curated Gear Guides for Hikers & Skiers

• 🧎 Make your knees feel better while hiking and walking: Best Knee Braces for Hiking
• 🌳Make the downhills stop hurting and hike with more confidence Best Trekking Poles Review
• ⌚ Never get lost on the trail and navigate the wilderness safely with My Review of the Best GPS Watches for Hiking
• ❄️ Go hiking on uneven terrain safely: The Best Hiking Boots with Ankle Support
• Don’t get lost in the backcountry with : My Review of the Best 2 Way Radios for the Mountains

My Guides to Bucketlist Hikes in Europe (That I’ve personally done and loved.)

• Olpererhutte Hike in Austria
• Rota Vicentina Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal
• Rosengarten Traverse Dolomites
• Alta Via 1 Dolomites Trek

If you’re an avid hiker, you know that shortcuts can be awesome. I hope this list of the Tour du Mont Blanc shortcuts helps you enjoy the journey.

Author profile :  Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.

Hiking a glacier on Mont Blanc Massif

F rom high up on the Mont Blanc Massif, our group of 10 mountaineers huddles together on a small stand of jagged granite rocks poking through the snow covering the Col d’Entreves. At 11,538 feet above sea level, the col is a saddle resting between Aiguille d'Entreves and the Tour Ronde, two peaks on the French/Italian Alps. 

Besides those mountains, we’re surrounded on all sides by stunning peaks such as Mont Blanc du Tacul, Mont Maudit, Mont de Rochefort, the Matterhorn in the far distance and nearby, Mont Blanc itself reigns highest among them wearing its snowy cap. Below us, the Italian resort of Courmayeur sits in an emerald green valley, untouched by snow for months now and quenched by the melting ice caps above.

At this altitude, the sun beats down in the way you’d anticipate on the first day of July and makes the snow around us glitter and sparkle, but overhead the sky is already swirling with ominous gray clouds and we hastily fuel up on baguettes, cheese and salami knowing that we can’t stay for long. 

Within minutes, we’re clambering clumsily off the rocks and back onto the snow in our crampons , clipping ourselves together by attaching a shared rope to locking carabiners on our harnesses , and preparing for our retreat back across the Glacier du Géant.

Though I’m no stranger to high altitude hiking – I spent some 11 years living at above 8,000 feet – I’m lightheaded and can feel the effects that come with arriving here so quickly. Only two days ago, I flew into Geneva to take part in the Arc’Teryx Alpine Academy in Chamonix. Yesterday, my planned mountaineering event was canceled due to a storm that was socked into the valley so we stuck to lower hiking trails. 

Then this morning at just after 7 a.m., we emerged, blinking into a sun-drenched Italy which we’d reached by driving through the Mont Blanc Tunnel, a 7-mile feat of engineering that passes under Mont Blanc. We boarded the Skyway Monte Bianco, otherwise known as the world’s most expensive cable car. A rotating gondola provides you with a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains as you quickly rise almost three thousand feet to a midway station. From here another gondola whizzed us up another four thousand feet to begin our trek from Pointe Helbronner. All this for just 110 million Euros.

The views from the top of the cable car are already enough to have me grappling with my phone, but at this altitude the cold wind whips at my exposed skin and the focus quickly turns to pulling on my hat, gloves and a waterproof jacket . It’s just turned 8 a.m. and already other keen mountaineers are pulling on gear to cross the glacier, while a nearby tent pitched in the snow reveals who is the most ambitious among us. From this perspective, the snow-covered bowl between the jagged tooth of Pointe Sella and Gros Rognon looks like solid, sublime terrain for a skier like myself, but one of our guides, Alain, warns that this world can be treacherous.

“Under there are the bodies of two tourists, who came out here months ago wearing shorts and T-shirts and just walked out onto the glacier and disappeared,” he tells us, pointing out at the area where the unfortunate – and admittedly underprepared – climbers fell into a hidden crevasse.

The danger of crevasses is a theme that pursues us as we set out across the glacier, rounding The Aiguille de Toule where other, more daring adventurers are scaling the cliff faces on belay . We’re roped together in groups of five and working our way across the snow. It means that you can neither walk too fast, or you’ll leave too much slack between you and the climber in front of you to be safe if they fall, nor so slow that they end up pulling you uphill. 

At one point, a member of our group asks if we can take a break to try to fix her trekking pole , and our guide Walter, who has thus far been warm and amenable brusquely says no, not yet.

“I’m not usually this strict, but here is a really dangerous spot where it’s easy to fall through.”

We move on for another 50 feet or so until we’re on safer ground, and while she fixes her pole he points out to us how to spot crevasses. Where there are steeper slopes or depressions in the lay of the land, the slow-moving glacier tends to crack and split before solidifying again as it meets flatter terrain. 

Walter explains that all you really need is an area about one meter wide and deep for a safe crossing, but without that, it’s easy to plunge through the surface. If that happens, we’re instructed to sit down, dig our ice axes into the snow and wait for rescue. The good news, he tells us, is that crevasses tend to form in the same area time and time again, so if you know the geography, you can predict where they might lie – another reason, I think, to come to these places with a guide.

When we reach our destination, we marvel at the alpine landscape spread out beneath us and muse at that mountaineer’s experience of once-large problems suddenly shrinking into irrelevance when you reach the clouds.

“Or maybe it’s just that we only have real problems up here. Like staying alive,” proposes Walter.

The exhilarating hike is billed as beginner-friendly and suitable for those of us with no prior mountaineering experience. In total, we walk only 3.5 miles, and though it’s hard work, before long we’re back at the Refugio de Torino, a high mountain hut, where we sip world-class cappuccinos (after all, our guides point out, we’re in Italy) and giddily revel in our adventure. 

But the high stakes are not lost on me. This is a walk that guides take beginners out on almost daily, but between variable snow conditions, human error and the fast-changing weather found at high altitude, your safe return is never fully guaranteed.

“Don’t rely on all the guides. They’re only human beings. Get the training," Walter comments as we pass a group doing crevasse training, where they deliberately fall into a crevasse to practice survival and rescue skills.

Giving the glacier one last glance, I turn to board the gondola, now packed with tourists in shorts and T-shirt coming up for a photo opportunity, and I’m reminded of my friend and mountaineer Ellen Miller’s mantra: respect the mountain.

What I wore for the glacier trek to Col d’Entreves

• Mountaineering boots : Arc’Teryx Acrux TR GTX boots
• Hiking pants : The North Face Dawn Turn Hybrid Trousers
• Base layer : IBEX Springbok Tee
• Mid layer: Montane Protium Lite Pull On
• Outer layer: Arc'Teryx Beta Lightweight Jacket
• Gloves: Rab Khroma Tour Infinium gloves
• Sunglasses : SunGod Tempests
• Crampons: Petzl Vasak crampons