The Tour des Combins at your own pace

Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).

In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.

ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.

DON'T FORGET

Passport or identity card

Insurance covering search, rescue or repatriation costs (bring your insurance policy number and emergency phone number with you)

1. BACKPACK - Recommended size: 35 liters minimum

Keep in mind that 500g + 500g + ... quickly adds up to extra kilos. Only take what you need, as you'll have to carry everything you pack. Your bag shouldn't weigh more than 8 to 10kg. Opt for a backpack with a hip belt to help distribute the weight and relieve strain on your posture and back. A bag with a chest strap will be a real plus in terms of comfort and stability.

TIPS: Remember to distribute the weight evenly inside your pack and adjust it properly so that your hips bear the load rather than your shoulders. This tip may seem insignificant at first, but it proves essential on multi-day hikes.

1. HIKING SHOES

A pair of high-top, waterproof hiking boots. This is the most important piece of equipment. Comfortable shoes can make all the difference, while unsuitable shoes can hinder your progress or even force you to give up. There are many different models of hiking boots available. Choose shoes that offer ankle support and adequate waterproofing. Nothing is more unpleasant than walking for hours in shoes soaked by rain or even morning dew.

TIP: Go trekking with shoes that you have already tried beforehand and are sure you won't get blisters in.

OTHERS :

1. Telescopic walking poles (recommended option)
2. Lip balm
3. Ultra-light shower kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel/shampoo or soap: also useful for washing clothes)
4. Synthetic bath towel
5. Phone and charger
6. International plug adapter
7. Rechargeable power bank
8. Handwashing liquid for washing clothes
9. Silk sheet (mandatory in dormitory)

In the mountains, the weather can change quickly. The clear blue morning sky can rapidly become overcast, especially if aided by a high-altitude wind bringing masses of humid air. Warm temperatures can also saturate the atmosphere with humidity, creating conditions conducive to thunderstorms. Winter conditions, such as frost, are also possible.

Early morning conditions or the presence of snow above 1800m. Finally, one might also fear a rainy day and see our boldness rewarded with an unexpected burst of sunshine and a completely clear sky a few hours later...

Keep this in mind:

When heading to the mountains, you must always consider the possibility of heat, rain, and cold. Your backpack should always contain the essentials to prepare for these three scenarios: this is the essential core kit.

Weight/efficiency dilemma:

Water bottles, picnic lunches, snacks, cameras, binoculars... these are all additional items to consider. A backpack fills up quickly, so it's essential to optimize the weight-to-performance ratio of the clothing and equipment you carry. For a multi-day hike with support and the transfer of drop packs, minimizing the weight of your daily pack is much easier. Without this support, packs are larger, so you'll need to consider hand-washing your clothes to reduce the number of items you need as much as possible.

CLOTHES :

1. First layer with short sleeves (synthetic)
2. First layer with long sleeves (synthetic)
3. 2nd layer (e.g., fleece) or thin down jacket
4. 3 pairs of hiking socks (synthetic or Merino wool)
5. Shorts
6. Hiking pants
7. Long technical underwear
8. Waterproof and breathable jacket
9. Rain cape / poncho

BAG BUNK:

1. A pair of lightweight gloves
2. Cap or beanie
3. Sunglasses
4. Water bottle (1.5L)
5. Small first aid kit (paracetamol, blister prevention/treatment, plasters, etc. Don't forget to bring your personal prescription if you have one).
6. Cash (euros and Swiss francs: most shelters do not accept credit cards)
7. Sunscreen
8. Pocket fork and knife
9. Headlamp
10. Survival blanket
11. Garbage bag for your waste