Saas-Fee - What should I take up the mountain?

We do not stop at a restaurant for lunch. We start early and finish early, and try and get the best out of the day. There is only one restaurant at the top of the glacier and it takes too much time to get there and get back from it. Therefore as a group we have a pic-nic style lunch on the mountain each day. There are deck chairs and a cabin in the park where everybody sit together. You should pack a sandwich and whatever else you would normally enjoy to eat. We recommend you take the following items:

Water
You will quickly become dehydrated at altitude, especially if you are active and skiing. It is always best to carry a back pack with a bottle of water and drink frequently to re-hydrate.

Sun Factor
At altitude the suns rays are extremely powerful even if it doesn't feel hot. You have to be especially careful when in the snow because it reflects extra ultraviolet radiation onto your skin. It is deceiving when it is cloudy and even snowing, as even then you can get burnt! A high factor is advisable. Try to go for the better products such as Sunsense, Ambre Solaire or Piz Bruin. You need to check that the cream has a UVA and UVB rating. To learn more about sunscreens visit www.dermnetnz.org/treatments/sunscreen.html

Energy Bars
It is always a good idea to carry energy bars or snacks in your back pack. You quickly burn off energy when skiing and until you manage to stop at the nearest mountain restaurant, it is always good to have something at hand to eat.

A Small Camera
If you have a small digital camera, stick it in your back pack! You will see the most awesome scenery and it is always nice to record the memory.

Mobile Phone
Not to call your friends and waste the day chatting! In case you get lost or have an accident, it is a good idea to have it just for emergencies.

An Extra Layer
The weather is ever changeable in the mountains. It is a good idea to have an extra layer in your back pack that you can take off and put on for your own comfort.

Spare Goggles
Not an absolute necessity, but we have found that if you fall and get your goggles wet, it is a good idea to have another set to put on. Goggles tend to steam up if they are wet and can ruin your visibility. A low light lens and a high light lens are good to have in your back pack too so that you can change them if the light changes.

Tissues
Sometimes a good idea, especially if you are prone to a runny nose!