Lausanne guide
🇨🇭 Packing List
What to pack for Lausanne
In January, Lausanne is typically cold, expect showers (-1 to 5°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Lausanne essentials
- Smart-casual outfits (skip gym wear for dinners)
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm insulated coat
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat, gloves and scarf
- Warm socks
- Warm waterproof boots
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Layered outfits you can add or remove as the day warms
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Lip balm and moisturiser for cold, dry air
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type J plugs (unique to Switzerland — not compatible with EU plugs without adaptor), 230V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Cards near universal. CHF cash occasionally needed.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Swisscom, Salt, Sunrise. Buy at train station. Excellent coverage.
- Unlicensed taxi or rideshare overcharging — agree the fare before entering or use a metered cab