Ski Trip Packing List

Clothing

1. Socks

If your feet are cold, it’s game over. So packing wisely in this department is a priority. There are hundreds of different sock brands to choose from but what matters is that the fabric is non-cotton and warm enough for you. Merino wool is the most popular fabric with skiers because of its moisture-wicking properties, reducing the feel (and smell) of sweaty feet. It’s best to choose a sock which covers the calf, almost to the knee. This will reduce the likelihood of it rolling down during skiing and creating friction between your leg and ski boot. Test how they feel inside your ski or board boots if you have your own equipment and take three to four pairs plus normal ankle socks for evenings.

2. Underwear

Comfort is key when it comes to underwear and support is always helpful during snowsports. Briefs are a personal choice but the aim is to avoid chafing. So avoid anything which is likely to rub and choose garments which sit comfortably under base layers. One pair of boxers or briefs each day and one for the evening are recommended. For chest support, avoid bras with underwire as this could pierce through the skin during an accident. A well-fitted, supportive sports bra is important for navigating uneven terrain in comfort.

3. Base layers

Your second skin during a ski trip is a good base layer set. A thermal long-sleeved t-shirt and leggings provide your first line of defence against the cold. Just like socks, merino wool is a good choice because it absorbs sweat away from the body, maintaining warmth and dryness. Opt for base layers which are a snug fit instead of baggy to hold in the heat, and one or two pairs should last all week. Base layer leggings should fit like tights and some people prefer pairs which stop at the sock line to avoid overlap inside the ski boot. Base layers should feel weightless and not limit any movement. If in doubt, choose a size up.

4. Mid-layer, fleece or down jacket

A fitted fleece, also known as a mid-layer, is the second important piece of insulation in a ski outfit and it can be alternated with a down jacket or worn underneath. A down jacket refers to a jacket stuffed with real feathers or artificial fibres. Some mid-layers combine the features of a base layer, fleece and down jacket into one garment. It's up to you to find the combination that works for you and optimises your core temperature throughout the ski day. Mid-layersand down jackets are not water or wind-proof so they should be worn under a waterproof jacket for snowsports.

5. Ski pants

Also known as salopettes, trousers designed for skiing are made with a waterproof membrane and insulated to keep your legs warm in low temperatures. Choose a pair with zip pockets to keep your belongings safe and ankle gaiters to stop snow from getting into your boots. As well as the traditional ski pants, dungaree-style trousers or ‘bibs’ are another popular alternative. This style prevents snow finding its way over the top of the trousers and can be adjusted over the shoulders as necessary.

6. Jacket

There are two main types of ski jackets to choose from: insulted or shell. As you would expect, an insulated jacket is thicker and requires less layering underneath. It will be water and windproof. A shell is thinner and only provides a barrier to the elements, with no inner padding. Most ski jackets come with a hood which can actually fit over a helmet. This comes in handy when the weather turns and full protection is needed, in a blizzard for example.

7. Gloves

Critically important, a pair of gloves can make or break your snowsports experience because freezing hands make a miserable skier. Just like other snowsports products, a waterproof, insulated pair will last for years if you don’t drop them off the chairlift or leave them in a bar. To avoid both of these situations, it’s worth choosing gloves with wrist elastics so they can hang loose when not in use. This feature makes everything easier since you can slip them off easily for activities like using the phone or making payments.

8. Buff or balaclava

A buff is a tubular piece of fabric worn around the neck which can also extend over the face and head if necessary. It is multi-functional and protects from cold, sun and wind on the slopes. For extreme conditions, a balaclava will cover the whole head with holes for the eyes, nose and mouth. To avoid heat-sapping gaps in your ski outfit, adequate headgear is essential.

9. Mountain casual clothing

When the lifts grind to a halt around 4.30 pm, most people head back to their accommodation or stay out for an aprés-ski drink. The helmet comes off and the hat goes on. Pack a beanie for any outdoor activity off the slopes and always take it in your rucksack for breaks and pitstops. Other important casual wear should include 2-3 warm hoodies and jumpers, comfortable joggers for relaxing in after skiing and one or two pairs of jeans for outings. You can expect ice and deep snow around resorts and pavements will not always be salted. So a decent pair of waterproof boots with a thick sole and good grip should also be packed. Wear these while travelling to free up space in your case.

Protection

10. Helmet

Ski conditions are unpredictable and so are other slope-users. The best way to protect yourself is to invest in a helmet with MIPS technology and wear it every time you do snowsports. Wearing a helmet is not a legal requirement however going out without one is like choosing not to wear a seatbelt - it’s a risk you can easily avoid.

11. Goggles and sunglasses

Eye protection is absolutely critical in winter environments because the sun’s rays are reflected off the snow, causing a harmful glare. UV radiation is stronger at high altitude so the skin and eyes must be protected. Different goggles are available to suit different light levels and their wraparound design prevents precipitation landing in the eyes. Goggles are the best method of eye protection for snowsports but sunglasses are an alternative. It is crucial that they provide 100% UV protection and even better if they have side shields to guard against the light from all angles.

Equipment

12. Boots

If you have your own ski or snowboard boots, a good way to maximise space in your luggage is to stuff them with socks or underwear. Store ski boots with their latches closed and wrapped in jumpers to avoid damage while travelling. Specific boot bags can also be used for storage and transport.

13. Snowboard, skis and poles

If you have your own kit, transport it in a ski or snowboard bag designed to protect it. Snowboard bags have interior padding to minimise scratches and skis should ideally be secured together with a velcro strap.

14. Backpack

A bottle of water, extra layer of clothing, beanie, snacks and suncream are a few recommended items to take out on the hill. Some people find it uncomfortable carrying a backpack but there are plenty of bags designed for skiing which you won’t notice once they’re on. Opt for a bag with a chest and waist strap to avoid bouncing and be careful not to overpack which can affect your balance, weigh you down or cause problems if you crash. Only take the essentials and ski safe in the knowledge that hydration, sun protection and warmth are available at all times.

15. Ski Bag

There are two options for transporting your kit. Clothes and equipment can go in the same bag, a double snowboard bag for example, or kit can be separated. Individual ski bags are handy to transport skis and poles together, and clothing can be packed in a separate duffel bag. Choosing a bag with wheels is important because snowsports luggage is heavy and getting from A to B is much more straightforward if you can roll.

Extras

Alpine environments are hostile to skin as the sun’s rays pack more of a punch at altitude. Regardless of whether the sun is shining, it is good practice to apply a high factor (30-50) over the whole face, including the lips and nose which are particularly prone to burning. Carry sun protection with you and apply it throughout the day to avoid sun damage. Skiing can be challenging for people who use glasses because lenses steam up inside goggles. Avoid this by using contact lenses if possible, and don’t forget eye drops to avoid dryness throughout the day. Wind, speed and changeable weather can dislodge contact lenses so it’s helpful to have hydrating drops to hand. It goes without saying that if you regularly use medication then you should first consult your doctor to ensure snowsports is a safe activity. Following that, check to see if there are specific conditions regarding transportation and storage for your trip.

Several items which are regularly used for travel will also come in handy on the slopes. For example, a reusable water bottle should be taken out skiing for easy hydration. Phone batteries drain quicker in low temperatures so an extra power bank is a good safety net, and remember that electronic chargers may need adapters specific to your destination. Of course, packing can be a daunting prospect. With so much to remember, there’s also lots to forget. But with this handy ski packing list, you will have the essentials covered.

Just don’t forget your passport!