CCO Campus Ministry

Home / Events / The Alpine Pilgrimage / Equipment List

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary – this will help you and the field staff.

Official Papers

  • Valid passport
  • Airline tickets

Luggage

  • Large duffel bag or soft sided suitcase (wheels and retractable handle are okay)
  • Daypack (2000-2500 cubic inches) to carry your camera, water bottles, lunch, extra clothing
  • Luggage tags and luggage locks
  • Passport pouch or money belt

City Clothing

  • Bring a few casual, lightweight, easily washable items for travel and city wear

Outerwear

  • Rain jacket, waterproof and breathable
  • Rain or wind pants, waterproof and breathable

Clothing

  • 1 Mid weight fleece or wool sweater
  • 1 Light weight fleece jacket or vest
  • 1 Light weight fleece pants or tights
  • 1 Light weight thermal underwear top and bottom, synthetic or wool
  • 1 Hiking pants, lightweight and synthetic, zip-off legs work great!
  • 1-2 Hiking shorts, lightweight and synthetic
  • 1-2 Long-sleeve shirts (quick-drying, synthetic)
  • 2-3 T-shirts (at least 2 quick-drying, synthetic)
  • Underwear

Clothing Accessories

  • Sun hat
  • Wool or fleece hat
  • Bandana
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Swimsuit (for use at some hotels)

Footwear

  • Sturdy hiking boots, water resistant, broken-in, aggressive tread
  • Comfortable shoes for evenings and travel
  • Hiking socks
  • Liner socks
  • Casual socks

Travel Accessories

  • Sleep sheet (required for mountain hut) and pillowcase
  • Lightweight travel towel and washcloth
  • Two 1-quart water bottles or hydration pack
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Gaiters, knee high (CCO can provide)
  • Headlamp or flashlight and spare batteries/bulb
  • Sunglasses and retainer strap
  • Sunblock and lip balm (SPF 15+)
  • Toiletry kit
  • Personal first-aid kit
  • Daypack rain cover or large, heavy-duty plastic trash bags in case of rain on the trail
  • Pocket knife

Optional Field Gear

  • Knee supports
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera, memory cards and spare batteries
  • Battery charger for electronics
  • Small binoculars
  • Watch with alarm or travel clock
  • Favorite energy snacks and/or drink mixes
  • Spare contact lenses or glasses
  • Reading and writing materials
  • Electrical adapter plug
  • Ear plugs/eye mask
  • Shower thongs/sandals
  • Sewing kit

Things to Consider

  • Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, medications, hiking boots and a change of clothing in your carry-on baggage in case your luggage is delayed.
  • Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet, it will drain your body heat. Bring wool or synthetics such as Capilene, MTS, and Thermax.
  • Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
  • Make sure boots are broken-in. Bring moleskin or blister remedies for foot treatment. Thin liner socks made of silk or synthetic fibers worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip.
  • Stuff sacks are great for sorting gear. Use different sizes/colors to differentiate the contents.
  • We recommend a daypack rain cover or a small, sturdy garbage bag to line your pack and keep your gear dry should inclement weather be encountered.

Download this checklist to print here.