>>2806140This particular trek wasn't very dificult at all, in fact, im also introducing miself to winter backpacking and hikes.
Anyway, I find it mandatory to bring an ice ax and crampons if you try to reach a summit, like I did. Crampons will make you walk on hard snow/ice like you are walking on dirt or stone. The ice ax will save your life if you fall down a slope, its the only way to stop yourself. Also, if its long like the one I carried, its pretty useful as a walking stick and for stabilizing yourself while doing small climbs. Snowshoes are a must, if you're hiking through deep snow (and you are not using skis or something like that).
In terms of bags, i love spending at least 1 night out, so I carry my big backpack (70l) with all the gear I need, and a small bag inside (20l more or less) wich I use to reach the summit. I simply leave my big backpack behind in the mountain hut, car, or hidden under a tree, nobody has ever stealed it. The big backpack is what I need in order to carry the ice ax, crampons, snowshoes, cooking gear, and sleeping things, as well as some clothing. I use cheap mountain clothing from decathlon, except from a expensive sport tshirt I have
In winter I try to sleep in an unguarded mountain hut, since I dont have a good enough sleeping bag to bivouac or sleeping outside. You should bring a nice base layer, not too warm and not to cold, so you dont sweat but also you dont get shivers.
Idk if im responding your questions haha pic is the backpack I carried
