Packing list for mountain hikes in summer
Planning a cabin to cabin in the Norwegian mountains this summer and wondering what to pack? Here's DNT's essential summer hiking packing liste.
When packing for summer mountain hiking, first consider where and when you will go.Even in midsummer, expect possible sleet and snow at high elevations.
Spring and fall conditions can quickly turn wintry - autumn typically brings snow above 1000-1200 meters. Pack sufficient warm layers for changing.
Forest hiking requires less specialized gear and lower-grade equipment may suffices.The same applies to sheltered coastal areas.

Clothing
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Lightweight wind jacket and hiking pants (moisture-wicking)
- Wool or wool-blend base layers + spare set
- High-wool-content hiking socks with good fit + extra pairs
- Wool sweater/jacket or lightweight down jacket
- Warm hat
- Wool gloves or insulated gloves that retain warmth when wet
- Lightweight camp shoes
- Hiking boots, preferably with gaiters
- Shorts and t-shirt (wool or synthetic) for warm weather
Read more: Tips and advice on how to choose the right hiking shoes and hiking boots (Alfa shoes)
Equipment
- Appropriately sized backpack (typically 40-60L for multi-day trips)
- Waterproof liner or dry bags (or external rain cover)
- Sleep sheet or bed linen
- First aid kit including blister treatment and sports tape
- Essential toiletries and lightweight towel
- Toilet paper and waste bags
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Insect repellent and/or head net
- Map, compass, and map case (GPS optional)
- Multi-tool and duct tape
- Matches or lighter
- Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
- Food and water for the hike
- Money/cards
- DNT key
- Membership card in DNT (you can easily download this digitally)
- Food supplies for unstaffed cabins
Total pack weight: approximately 7-12 kg. Pack only essentials to keep your pack light and comfortable.
Hiking equipment and maps at member price
Do you need clothes and equipment for the trip? In DNT's stores and trip information all over the country, or in DNT's online store, you can buy hiking equipment and maps at a member price.
Tips
- Light indoor clothing should be clothing that is also suitable for hiking. Bringing two mid-layers allows one for hiking and one for cabin use. Rinse wool base layers and socks at the cabin so they dry overnight.
- Wind jackets are more comfortable than rain shells in dry, windy conditions
- Also consider bringing an bivvy bag/wind shelter for extra safety.
- GPS is useful but should never replace map and compass skills
- Fully charge your phone before departure and conserve battery during the trip. Remember that large parts of the mountain lack cell coverage.
- Always carry a reflective vest for use in emergencies
Packing lists
Whether you are going on a summer trip, winter trip, summit trip or day trip, it can be useful to have tips on what you should bring in your backpack. Here you will find all our recommended packing lists.
See also