It seems that no matter how many times you check your suitcase, you’ll always forget something at home when packing for a trip. If it’s something simple, like soap or a toothbrush, then you can easily pick one up at the local store once you reach your destination. However, when it comes to specialised ski gear, it’s usually not that simple.
Most ski resorts have dedicated equipment stores where you can rent ski gear for the duration of your trip. While it’s a good idea to rent some equipment on your first ski trip, this can be expensive if you’re a frequent visitor to the slopes.
In this case, it’s often more cost-effective to purchase and take all of your ski gear with you; there are plenty of cheap ski gear deals out there. So, whether you’re a beginner skier looking for a place to get started or a veteran on the slopes, simplify the packing process with our handy ski trip checklist.
Travel essentials
- Tickets, travel money, passport
- Flight/train/ferry/coach/transfer details
- Holiday/accommodation/ski hire details
- Insurance details
- Passport photos – check if you need these for your lift pass in the resort you are going to
- Driving licence/GPS navigation device/directions (if you’re driving)
- Snow chains (if you’re driving)
- Mobile phone and charger
Ski/snowboard equipment
- Skis and poles
- Snowboard
- Ski boots or snowboard boots
Safety
- Goggles – shields your eyes from the snow and wind (sunglasses won’t protect as well). You can’t rent these, but they can come in handy during a white-out back home
- Helmet – many people believe that soft snow will prevent injuries when skiing, but even nursery slopes can be iced over and rock hard. Just like wearing a bike helmet when cycling, it’s important to protect your head on the slopes
- Avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe (if you’re venturing off-piste)
Ski/snowboard clothing
- Waterproof, breathable jacket – a good waterproof hiking jacket will do the job (that’s what I used on my first ski trip) but a specialised ski jacket will have a few extra features
- Waterproof, breathable salopettes/snow pants – some jackets come with a snow skirt that connects to compatible salopettes and stops any snow from getting in
- Waterproof, insulated and breathable ski gloves or mittens – mittens are the warmer option
- Glove liners – for extra cold weather
- Handwarmers – if you are particularly sensitive to the cold these can help
- Insulating neck gaiter – you could use a scarf, but a neck gaiter makes a big difference (trust me) and prevents snow and cold air from getting down your jacket. You can also pull it over your face for added protection
- Balaclava – provides more face protection than a neck gaiter in extremely cold conditions.
- Beenie hat – you lose most of your body heat through the top of your head; keep your noggin warm
- Ski socks
- Sunglasses – you can use these instead of googles when the weather conditions are good if you prefer
- Thermal base layers – avoid cotton as it soaks up sweat and doesn’t release it, leaving you feeling cold and wet. Instead, opt for a specialist base layer with wicking technology
- Thermal bottoms/long johns
- Fleece mid layers
- Dry clothes – designate clothes that need to stay dry to ensure you have something to change into at the end of the day
On the slopes
- Small rucksack – to carry water, snacks and the layers you’ll shed and put back on throughout the day
- Sun cream and chapstick with a high SPF – the sun is strong at altitude. Additionally, the cold dry out your skin
- Water bottle or hydration system – even though the temperature is low, you’ll lose a lot of fluids through sweat; it’s important to stay hydrated
- Ankle, knee, wrist supports (if needed)
- Lift tickets – you won’t be doing much skiing if you can’t get on the mountain
- Watch
- Mobile phone – it’s also a good idea to bring your phone (in a small waterproof bag) with you on the mountain in case of an emergency or if you get separated from your group. Make sure that it’s fully charged each day
- First aid kit
Around the resort
- Jeans/long trousers
- T-shirts/tops
- Jumper/sweater or fleece
- Underwear including socks
- Shoes/boots with a good grip (ideally walking boots or approach shoes)
- Swimming costume or trunks – if you have a hot tub or you plan to use the spa or swimming pool in the resort
- Regular gloves
- Regular Hat
- Pyjamas
You’ll need these for when you’re off the slopes and hanging out around the resort during the evenings.
Other important stuff:
- Toiletries including toothbrush
- Travel plug adaptor
- High energy snacks (chocolate bars/energy bars/nuts)
- Any medication (including painkillers)
- Deep Heat (or similar) – to help with any muscular injuries
Luxuries
- GoPro camera and charger
- iPod and headphones
- Book or magazine
- Earplugs
- Travel pillow
- Cards/games
A quick note on hiring gear
If it’s your first-ever ski trip then it’s best to rent basic ski equipment (skis, snowboard and boots) at the resort. However, once you’ve gained experience and have a better understanding of the different types of skis, snowboards and boots then it might be worth investing in your own.
If you want to save money and are unsure whether or not you will be making a repeat visit to a ski resort, then you might be able to borrow some gear from friends. However, a lot of the items on this list will come in handy elsewhere. For example, a good quality ski jacket will make a great hiking jacket and visa versa.
Featured image: Willem De Meyer/Unsplash
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