Please sign in to post.

Dressing for the weather?

I am leaving for a trip next week that starts with three nights in Lauterbrunnen then traveling south in Italy. I am seeing temps in the 30-37F degree range. I live in a snow area but just wondering if this is typical for early Sept and suggestions on dressing for the weather. Do I need a parka and snow boots or can I use windbreakers and sneakers?

Posted by
12040 posts

Are you looking at the forecast for Lauterbrunnen or one of the mountain towns at higher elevation? For Lauterbrunnen I'm seeing predicted highs in the upper teens (Celcius), low 20s, with lows about 10 degrees less. For Mürren... looks like it will be a bit colder than usual for this time of year. I doubt you'll need snow boots, because even if it snows at this time of year, it generally doesn't accumulate to more than a thin layer before melting. If hiking's on your itinerary, however, I would bring a good pair of hiking boots. It would probably be easier to bring a jacket and layer underneath it than to deal with a parka, which you probably wouldn't use much in Lauterbrunnen and not at all in Italy.

Posted by
12172 posts

Layering is key. It won't be cold when you get to Italy. It's better to wear two tops, a sweater, a light fleece, and a rainshell in Lauterbrunnen rather than a heavy winter clothing item. When you get to Italy, you can still use those items without needing the layers. I usually don't pack any extra heavy clothes. If the temps look to stay in their current range, however, I'd consider adding a light ski cap, some fleece gloves, and maybe silk long underwear to your pack list. Those items won't stuff your bag but can really warm you up when needed.

Posted by
567 posts

Brad's idea works best here. I added a very lightweight black fleece to my travel packing list after a few travels to Europe. I have worn it over 1-3 tops and a sweater, or just over a LS blouse and a cami. Also, good for cold plane rides & rolls neatly into your under the bag seat, or tie it on your arm rest. Try stores that carry Columbia brands, or LLBean, Sports Authority, and Dick's Sporting goods. If you're definitely going to seriously hike, bring your boots, else bring your best walking shoes you have. Happy Travels!

Posted by
20 posts

Thanks for the replies. I don't expect to do any serious hiking just walking between the towns and riding the train up the mountain to view the area. The forecast for the next 7 days is high's in the mid-30 degree range. I think your suggestions about layering are good ones as well as the fleece style jacket. Thanks.

Posted by
5836 posts

Hi, 30-37F is frost. What is the elevation of Lauterbrunnen? Is the 30f-37f overnight lows? Clothing may be dependent on your activities. Check the Swiss Met website: http://www.meteoswiss.admin.ch/web/en/weather/detailed_forecast/local_forecasts.html?language=en&plz=Lauterbrunnen&x=-418&y=-321 If you know the Swiss geography and climatic zones for your visit you can access climate records: http://www.meteoswiss.admin.ch/web/en/climate/swiss_climate/climate_diagrams_from_swiss_measuring_stations.html

Posted by
32805 posts

I don't know where you are getting such low temperatures for Lauterbrunnen. We have walked all over from Muerren in mid September with shorts and a short sleeved shirt (light jacket in the day pack - unused except at altitude) and been very comfortable. I use WeatherUnderground for a quick snapshot for a week up. I've just looked at their crystal ball for next week and it quite different to your figures. Next Tuesday 28/7 dry. Those are Celcius. In Fahrenheit it would be 82/45 Next Wednesday 31/9 dry F: 88/8
Next Thursday 22/11 20% precip F: 71/52 I don't see much cause for a parka there.