Skiing is one of the most enjoyable outdoor activities yet it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t pack for it carefully. Here’s a handy ski trip packing list that you can print and reuse for each season.
Ski Trip Packing List
Why is it so important to pack well for your skiing trip? Well, some smaller resorts won’t necessarily have your size if you forget anything.
Larger resorts usually have a good selection of ski-wear, but searching for items that you need will take up valuable ski and apres-ski time. The other reason is that skiing can feel physically uncomfortable if you have the wrong clothes or equipment.
We still remember our first ever ski trip, and how the boots that were ideal for London rain were completely unsuitable for slippery pavements covered in snow. We rushed out and bought a pair of rubber soled apres-ski boots and breathed an instant sigh of relief!
Check the weather forecast in your skiing destination and if there will be any rainy days. It’s also important to consider the average temperature at the time of your visit.
How to Use this Ski Trip Packing List
We’ve separated this ski packing list into sections, from designer ski wear for her and him, to ski accessories, travel equipment, electronics, documentation and optional items. We’ve even listed items that you can definitely leave behind!
The following list is for a 7 day trip, with clothing and equipment for skiing and outdoor activities. If you’re travelling for longer, just increase the amount of clothing in proportion to the length of your stay.
Skiing Base Layers
Your ski base layers should be lightweight and comfortable. Ideally, they’ll keep you warm but have ventilation to prevent overheating and a soft jacquard waistband.
Other good features for ski base layers are under arm ventilation, back of knee ventilation and flat lock seams.
Skiing Top Layers
On warmer skiing days you can go without a top layer. However it’s important to bring top layers for cooler days.They’re also handy for apres-ski.
Choose wool polo neck sweater or a fleece hoodie like this one by Gandys. The Gandys brothers tragically lost their parents in the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004 and created their travel wear company in their memory, building Kids Campuses and giving to charitable causes around the world.
The Lucerne fleece is moisture wicking and lightweight. This vibrant unisex top comes in a range of sizes, from XS to XL. It has ribbed cuffs, faux suede trims and a hem cinch-cord that can be adjusted for the perfect fit.
Essential Skiing Accessories
Ski socks – ordinary socks won’t do, you need extra thick wool socks. They also need to be long enough to go above your ski boots so that there’s no rubbing on your shins.
Neck gaiter – much more convenient than a scarf. Choose merino wool or fleece for maximum warmth.
Ski gloves – the most popular style is a mitten. Choose one with a clip so that you can attach them to your skis when you take a break. Silk under gloves are also a good idea if you feel the cold or will be skiing all day and some have touch-screen capabilities.
Silk or fleece balaclava – to wear under your ski helmet in poor weather.
Ski goggles – make sure that the ones you choose have a top quality polarizing lens like these fabulous snow goggles from MessyWeekend. The official partner of the Danish Ski Teams for the Winter Olympics 2022, they have a cool green mirror finish, and a high contrast lens.
There’s also a sturdy goggles case and additional yellow lens for overcast conditions included. By purchasing these goggles, you are cleaning 2KG of plastic in the Pacific Ocean.
Underwear – you can manage with normal bras but a sports one gives the most support. Choose underwear in stretch fabric for maximum comfort and ease of movement.
Skisuit or ski jacket and trousers – whether you choose an all in one ski suit or separate jacket and trousers is a matter of personal preference. Ski suits have a slick, streamlined look.
The belted versions are very slimming. You can also find eco-friendly ski suits now, made from recycled polyester, using plastic bottles. When buying a skisuit, check the breathability and waterproof ratings.
Toilet breaks take a bit longer with a ski suit than if you opt for a jacket and trousers. From stylish belted ski jackets to looser fitting snowboard jackets, there are lots of options.
Make sure to choose a jacket that is specifically designed for skiing rather than bringing one of your existing puffer jackets. You need something that is warm enough to withstand extreme temperatures, and also waterproof and windproof.
There’s a removable powderskirt to keep snow out, two under arm vents, half hand wrist gaitors, an inside goggle pocket with lens wipe and 6 more pockets including a media pocket. Another great feature is that the body has 80gm insulation while the arms are a lighter 60gm for ease of movement.
Combine it with a ski bib pant with pockets and a chest pouch. Make sure to check the waterproof rating and breathability.
As a ski jacket is one of the bulkiest items that you’ll be taking on your ski trip, consider wearing it when travelling to your destination. You’ll reduce luggage weight and fit right in on your arrival.
Apres-Ski Clothing
After a long day skiing, you’ll want to wear casual and comfortable clothing. Even for dinner in luxurious ski resort restaurants, people stick to a smart casual look. Here are our favorite apres-ski items that are worth finding room in your case for.
Snow boots – the cosiest snow boots that we have found are by Emu Australia. Made from metallic waterproof suede, the Rutledge Snow Boots have a toasty sheepskin lining.
You can lace them up for the perfect fit and they come in grey or black. They have a thermal rating of -22°f / -30°c.
We’ve tried them out on a recent Switzerland trip and not only do they keep your feet completely dry, they also have a very sturdy grip so you don’t slip on snow. A side zip allows easy on-off access.
The cord lacing allows you to tighten the boots for a perfect fit. What’s more, they’re currently half price so snap them up while you can!
Sheepskin gloves – keep warm with these gorgeous Apollo Bay sheepskin gloves by Emu Australia. Made from the finest Australian double face sheepskin, they’re Woolmark accredited and have a smart fold over cuff with decorative stitching.
Sheepskin ear muffs – cut a dash on the slopes and around town with these beautiful Angahook ear muffs by Emu Australia. Made from the best sheepskin with 10mm fleece pile, they’re extremely warm.
There’s an adjustable band for a perfect fit. They come in 3 colors – black, mushroom or chestnut, which I’m wearing below.
- Polarizing wrap around sunglasses – protect your eyes from snow glare.
- Thinner wool socks – for apres-ski and relaxing in your accommodation
- Faux fur snood – looks stylish and is very cosy
- Wool polo neck jumpers or zip-up fleeces
- Underwear
- Warm trousers for the flight
- Swimming costume – if your accommodation has a pool or hot tub
- Trapper hat – to keep you toasty on Winter hikes. It covers the back of your neck completely and fastens with a velcro loop.
- Beanie hat – the one below is by Barts and has a stylish faux fur trim.
Optional Ski Equipment to Pack
The following items are among the most important for your skiing trip, yet they’re all easy to hire in skiing resorts. We don’t own any of these as we fly to our skiing destinations.
We prefer to save on weight in the suitcase and to benefit from the latest models by renting. However, if you are fortunate enough to live within driving distance of a ski resort, then you probably own skis and equipment.
If you’re thinking about investing in your own ski equipment, we recommend getting either a helmet or boots for a perfect fit.
- Skiing boots – the latest models have flex adjustment and heat mouldable shells for a customized fit.
- Skis – there’s a huge choice these days including powder skis, all mountain or frontside skis. Pack in a special ski bag.
- Ski poles – carbon fiber poles are the most lightweight.
- Ski helmet – choose one with adjustable vents for maximum comfort.
- Head torch – for extra visibility during night time skiing.
Ski Trip Travel Essentials
- Contact lenses or glasses.
- Lightweight nylon backpack
- Packing cubes – very convenient if you’re changing accommodation, since you won’t have to unpack each time.
- Water bottle – check our recommendation below for one of the best lightweight water bottles.
- Energy bars – handy to take in your pockets for a quick energy boost on the slopes.
Ski Trip Toiletries
- Biodegradable wetwipes
- Body wash
- Cleanser
- Cotton pads or Q-Tips
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush & hair accessories
- Makeup & makeup remover
- Moisturizer – specially formulated for Winter
- Muscle recovery rub
- Prescription medication
- Razor
- See through or hanging toiletry bag
- Sunscreen – ideally SPF 50+ for face and SPF 30+ for the body
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Moisturizing mask e.g. Skin Recovery by Paula’s Choice. We use this most nights throughout the year. It’s hydrating but doesn’t overload the skin.
Ski Trip Electronics
- Camera, battery, lenses
- Cell Phone & charger, dual sim card
- Drone – check beforehand whether this is allowed in your skiing area and whether a licence is needed.
- E-reader
- Smartwatch with a ski tracking feature
- 4K action camera – GoPro or DJI Osmo Action camera with a headband or body strap.
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Laptop
- Power bank
- Lightweight tripod
Travel Documentation
Don’t forget to take out specialized travel insurance if necessary. Even if you have a general travel insurance policy, many don’t cover skiing, snowboarding and other Winter sports activities.
- Driving license
- Emergency contact information
- Accommodation confirmation
- Passport
- Flight or train tickets
- Travel Insurance policy
- Excursion and tour confirmations if booked
Optional Travel Items
- Avalanche beacon – for off-piste skiing.
- First aid kit – if you’re staying in a hotel this won’t be necessary. If staying in a ski chalet, check that it is provided.
- Earplugs – for light sleepers.
- Hand sanitizer
- Motion sickness medication for the flight.
- Ski lock.
- Travel pillow for the flight.
15 ESSENTIAL SKI ACCESSORIES
The most useful ski accessories including ski gadgets and other skiing items to make life easier on the slopes.
4 Digit Combination Ski Lock with Retractable Cable
The best ski lock that we've found - this has a 3 feet retractable cable and 4 digit combination. You can also use it for bikes, strollers and snowboards.
Bluetooth Ski Helmet
With this innovative ski helmet, you can listen to music and answer phone calls while you ski!
Ski Snowboard Goggle Cover Sleeve - Lens Scratch Dust Protection (3 Pack)
You'll wonder how you ever managed without this goggle cover. It will keep your goggles free from scratches and dirt.
Merino Wool 730 Midweight Neck Gaiter
Super soft 100% merino wool to keep your neck and face warm while skiing. Comes in a wide range of colors.
Rechargeable Heated Ski Gloves for Men and Women
Keep your hands warm and toasty for up to 10 hours with these innovative heated skiing gloves.
4 Way Unisex Windproof Ski Balaclava and Neck Warmer
This clever skiing balaclava can be worn in 4 different ways, as a hat, hooded balaclava, snood and neck scarf. Protects from cold, dust, wind and UV Rays.
Thermal Phone Case - Helps Protect from Extreme Cold, Extends Battery Life
Military grade protection from extreme temperatures. Prevents your phone from freezing in the cold. Can also be used in extreme heat conditions.
Ski Straps and Pole Carrier to Free Your Hands and Transport Your Ski Gear
Perfect for families, these ski carriers make it much easier to transport your skis. They fit easily into a pocket when you're skiing.
Hot Hands 2 Handwarmer (40 Pairs)
Great for keeping your hands warm - you can slip them inside your ski gloves or jacket pockets.
Garmin Fēnix 5X Plus Multisport GPS Smartwatch with Heart Rate Monitoring
The perfect ski smartwatch, with GPS and heart rate monitoring.
Military Drop Tested Case for iPhone 11 Pro
Protect your smartphone from falls when skiing with this hard wearing case. Also available for Samsung.
Osprey Rolling Transporter 120 Duffel Bag
A hard-wearing, weather-resistant bag with oversized wheels and rainflap zippers.
Thule RoundTrip Ski Bag
If you have your own skis, this bag is ideal for transporting them safely to your destination.
Ski Travel Backpack for Boots, Helmets, Goggles & Outerwear - US Ski Team Official Supplier
Fit all your ski essentials into this handy backpack.
Backcountry Access Tracker 3 Beacon
An easy to use transceiver for off piste skiing.
What Not To Bring on a Skiing Trip
- Dresses or skirts – you’ll wear trousers the whole time!
- Fancy jewelry – people dress casually and there’s not a great deal of opportunity to wear it.
- Jeans – don’t even think about wearing them to ski in. They’re not warm enough and they’re not waterproof. If you must, bring them for apres-ski, but we much prefer thermal pants.
- Scarf – it’s much more practical to wear a buff or neck gaiter rather than a scarf for skiing.
What to Bring Back From a Skiing Trip
Depending on your skiing destination, there are some great ski souvenirs, so leave some space in your luggage if you can.
- Apres-ski and traditional local clothing – lederhosen and dirndls are good for parties!
- Carved decorative items – wooden spoons and walking sticks are popular. Cuckoo clocks are another good choice.
- Local food and drink – including liqueurs, cheese and chocolate.
- Ski clothing and accessories – the range of items is usually far greater in ski resorts than in your home town so stock up for next year.
- Snowglobes – kitsch but fun!
In Conclusion: Ski Trip Packing List
Packing for a ski trip can be daunting, but with our comprehensive packing list, you’ll be able to hit the slopes with everything you need (and nothing you don’t). Be sure to check out our other travel articles for more helpful tips on making the most of your next vacation.
We hope you’ve found these ski packing tips helpful. What one item would you not go skiing without?
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