The Ultimate Swiss Elopement Packing List: What to Bring for Your Adventure Wedding in the Alps

What to pack for your adventure elopement in switzerland?

So, you’ve decided to elope in Switzerland — the land of dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, and meadows that look straight out of a fairytale. Amazing choice. But now comes the practical question: what on earth do you pack for an elopement in the Swiss Alps?

Unlike a traditional wedding venue where everything is controlled and predictable, an adventure elopement in Switzerland means embracing nature’s beauty and her unpredictability. Weather can change in five minutes, trails can be steep or muddy, and sunrise at 2,000m feels very different from sunset by a glacial lake.

I’ve created this step-by-step elopement packing list to help you feel prepared, confident, and stress-free. Whether you’re planning a sunrise vow exchange, a cozy mountain hut wedding with a few guests, or a snowy winter elopement, this guide has you covered.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FULL ELOPEMENT PACKING LIST

Want the ultimate checklist to make sure you don’t forget a thing for your big day in the Alps? Download my free printable PDF! (Available in French & English)

The Must-Have Essentials (All Seasons)

No matter the season, there are a few things you absolutely cannot skip:

Passports & paperwork — marriage license documents, permits, and IDs. Keep these in a waterproof pouch.
Rings & vows — sounds obvious, but they’re easy to forget when you’re packing boots and base layers.
Phones & portable chargers — mountain adventures eat batteries fast.
Snacks & water — altitude + emotions = hungry, thirsty humans.
First aid kit — plasters, blister pads, painkillers, maybe altitude tablets if you’re prone to sickness.
Sunscreen & sunglasses — the Alpine sun is strong, even in winter.
Headlamp or flashlight — absolutely essential for sunrise or sunset hikes.
Backpack — comfortable enough to carry all your gear without looking like you’re off on a week-long trek.

Think of this section as your survival kit for love in the mountains.

Packing by Season: What to Bring for Your Swiss Elopement

The Alps are stunning year-round, but each season has its quirks. Here’s what to add to your bag depending on when you’re eloping:

Spring (April–June)

Spring in Switzerland is magical — waterfalls are roaring, wildflowers bloom, but snow can still linger on high trails.

‣  Layering is key: base layer + fleece + waterproof shell.
‣  Waterproof hiking boots (some trails will still be muddy or snowy).
‣  Microspikes if your trail still has ice patches.
‣  Umbrella or clear poncho for rain (and photos where you’re still visible).
‣  Allergy meds if you’re sensitive to pollen.

Summer (July–September)

Summer is the classic elopement season here — golden meadows, turquoise lakes, long evenings. But don’t be fooled: it can still get chilly at altitude.

‣ Breathable hiking clothes for the pre-ceremony adventure.
‣ Change of clothes/shoes for the ceremony (heels not recommended for trails).
‣ Hat/cap for sun protection.
‣ Bug spray near lakes in July/August.
‣ Light down jacket for chilly evenings.

Autumn (October–November)

Autumn means golden larches, crisp air, and fewer crowds. It’s one of my favorite times for elopements, but it can get cold fast.

‣ Warm layers: wool base layers, gloves, hat, insulated jacket.
‣ Waterproof boots (trails can be muddy or icy).
‣ Thermos with hot drinks (mulled wine? yes please).
‣ Blanket or shawl for extra warmth (and cozy photos).
‣ Rain protection: October can be wet.

Winter (December–March)

Think frozen lakes, snowy peaks, and cozy mountain cabins. Winter is pure magic if you don’t mind the cold.

‣ Thermal base layers + insulated jacket.
‣ Waterproof snow boots or mountaineering boots.
‣ Gloves (thin pair for rings, thick pair for everything else).
‣ Hand warmers & foot warmers.
‣ Microspikes/crampons if hiking.
‣ Thermos with hot drinks + extra snacks (you burn more calories in the cold).

Sunrise vs. Sunset Elopements

Both are incredible in Switzerland, but they come with different needs.

Sunrise

‣ Extra warm layers (it’s coldest before dawn, even in summer).
‣ Blanket for waiting before the ceremony.
‣ Headlamp (don’t try to hike in the dark with your phone flashlight).
‣ Quick snacks (you’ll need energy before breakfast).

Sunset

‣ Layers for dropping evening temps.
‣ Headlamp/flashlight for the hike back.
‣ Bug spray in summer.
‣ Champagne/picnic for a celebratory alpine dinner.

What to Wear & Carry for the Ceremony

This is where form meets function. You want to look incredible while also being practical.

For the couple:

‣ Wedding outfits (carried in a garment bag or carefully packed if hiking).

‣ Hiking boots for getting there + shoes for the ceremony (sturdy yet stylish).
‣ Extra socks (wet feet are not romantic).
‣ Accessories (jewelry, cufflinks, shawls, hairpieces).
‣ Light jacket, shawl, or coat that looks great in photos.

Hair & makeup touch-ups:

‣ Mini brush, hairpins, small hairspray.
‣ Lip balm/lipstick.
‣ Blotting papers for shine.

If You’re Bringing Guests

Some couples choose to invite a few close friends or family members. In that case, make sure your guests are prepared for the Alps, too:

‣ Layers and weather-appropriate clothing (no stiletto heels in the mountains, please).
‣ Warm accessories like shawls or blankets.
‣ Water & snacks for the trail.
‣ Comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.
‣ A sense of adventure — because hiking in wedding clothes is unforgettable!

Optional Extras That Make the Day Even Better

‣ Champagne or local Swiss wine for toasts.
‣ Blanket or picnic setup (double duty: cozy & photogenic).
‣ Personal props (letters, heirlooms, instruments).
‣ Compact speaker for a first dance in the mountains.
‣ Hiking poles if the trail is steep or guests aren’t used to it.

Why Packing Smart Matters for Your Swiss Elopement

It might sound like a lot, but here’s the truth: comfort equals confidence in your photos. If you’re freezing, blistered, or stressed because you forgot your vows, it shows. When you’re warm, comfortable, and prepared, you’re free to focus on the real reason you came to Switzerland: celebrating your love story in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

As your photographer (and adventure guide), I always carry some backups — safety gear, snacks, and yes, Swiss chocolate at the perfect moment. But this list ensures you arrive prepared, relaxed, and ready to soak up every second.

Ready to Plan Your Own Swiss Elopement?

This packing list is just one piece of the puzzle. I help my couples with everything from finding the perfect ceremony spot, to scouting hidden trails, to building a timeline that balances adventure and intimacy.

Check out my Switzerland elopement packages to see how I can make your day effortless, magical, and totally you.

Elopement packages

Reach out & we’ll start planning your dream elopement

Don’t worry, most couples who inquire with me have no plans at all. 
Helping turn vague ideas into a thrilling plan is my specialty.

I can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life