An autumn trip to the Tatra Mountains – what should you pack?
A backpack is a must! And inside it…
- Water and enough food – there are refreshment points on many trails, but they operate at specific hours, so it’s best to have your own supplies.
- A tourist map.
- A first aid kit – its essentials include disinfectants, plasters and sterile dressings, bandages, disposable gloves, and any necessary medications.
What to wear in the mountains – Tatras in autumn
Shoes – they should provide good protection against water, so models with a membrane are a great choice. It’s worth leaving a bit of extra space in the boots for socks designed for autumn mountain hiking (thicker, warmer, and reinforced at the toes and heels). If this is your first mountain trip, opt for high-ankle boots – they reduce the risk of ankle injuries and help prevent water from getting in from the top.
Trousers – in autumn, you need to be prepared for changing weather conditions both on the trail and at the summit, so long softshell trousers are a good option. This type of material allows the skin to breathe while protecting against the cold.
Autumn in the mountains is a mix of lingering summer warmth and the first signs of winter. While temperatures at the base and along most of the trail may be mild, at the summit you can expect cold, wind, or even snow. That’s why it’s important to take altitude-related weather changes into account. In autumn, just like at any time of year, proper headwear is essential.
A winter trip to the Tatras – what should you keep in mind?
Before setting off, check the weather in the Tatra Mountains (it’s often different from the rest of Poland). If this is one of your first trips, it’s better to avoid bravado. If you want to keep climbing new peaks in the future, start with easy and safe trails. This is important all year round, but winter mountains come with significantly more risks. In addition to careful route planning, remember that cold temperatures increase your need for food. Just like in autumn, a first aid kit is a must.
The Tatras in winter – how to dress?
Clothing should be lightweight while still protecting against frost and wind, and it should effectively manage moisture. A recommended winter mountain outfit includes:
- a thermal base layer consisting of a shirt and thin trousers such as long johns or leggings,
- a warm fleece or sweatshirt and trekking trousers worn over the base layer,
- a warm and lightweight jacket,
- appropriate socks, boots, a hat, and gloves.
Boots should not only protect against the cold but also help prevent slipping. They must be waterproof (snow-resistant) and breathable. Some winter trekking boots are equipped with a selectively breathable membrane. In winter, boots that reach at least above the ankle are essential. Additionally, you may want to equip yourself with gaiters and crampons for your boots.
