So when it comes to ski packing lists, there are things you need and things that are not so essential. And as we’re just back from a great trip, its fresh in my mind to drop my list of ski trip essentials which are actually a nightmare if you forget.
These are both items for on-piste and off the mountain, and are all things that are absolutely going to make your trip more comfortable. No filler here.
This list excludes actual equipment such as skis/snowboards and your boots – instead focusing on the important clothing items and accessories. And actually, check out our guide to buying vs renting…
Anyways, heres the essential stuff you 100% need to pack.
1. Thermal base layer top
An absolute essential when packing for any ski trip is thermal base layers. I tend to skip the bottoms, unless its absurdly cold, and stick with the top only. I’ll then wear my thermal base layer top under a jumper/pullover (if its cold) or a t-shirt (if its warm).
If you want the best thermal base layer top then opt for merino wool – which is a bit more expensive but worth it for the insulation, natural moisture wicking and longevity.
We recommend packing 1 for every two days you’re away – so three base layers for a 6 day skiing trip.
Check out Dare2B for a good range of affordable and good quality base layers for men, women and kids.
2. Suncream
Yes, really! When the sun comes out in the mountains, it can really warm you up. I almost always pop some suncream on at the apartment before heading up onto the mountain and then carry a smaller sunscreen bottle in my ski daypack just in case.
Apply SPF30 at the very least – and if you’re with kids make sure to use SPF50. This is genuinely a must pack for ski trips.
3. Neck gaiter/snood
An absolute essential for skiing/snowboarding is some kind of neck and face covering. That cold wind can really sting your lips and ice up your neck and nostrils, especially if its subzero outside. A good neck gaiter protects you from the cold and also prevents your lips getting chapped. If you want the best then get a wool neck gaiter which will keep your proper snuggly and warm.
4. Water bottle
Stay hydrated! Skiing and snowboarding are high intenstity activities so drinking plenty of water is important. No, gluhwein and beer don’t count… Make sure to pack a good reusable drinking bottle.
If you want to save space, we highly recommend these collapsible water bottles which are made from BPA-free silicone and easily fold down as you drink more.
5. Warm gloves
We’re not talking your ski or snowboarding gloves here, but a good pair of leather gloves or similar for apres ski and walking around town. When the sun goes down, it gets cold very quickly, and just walking from your hotel to a restaurant can be VERY cold.
A good pair of leather gloves is just what you need – even better if they’re lined with wool or fleece. These lovely mens leather gloves with cashmere lining will keep your fingers warm until you’re back in your digs…
6. Insulated ski jacket
Some people swear by a shell jacket, others won’t get on-piste without a good quality insulated ski jacket. We think a good quality ski jacket is a no-brainer for both your on the mountain activities and apres ski. And while there is an argument for packing two jackets, one for the mountain and one for apres, we don’t think there’s much point, especially if your luggage is limited.
Check out our guide to ski jackets for our suggestions.
7. Slippers/slip-ons
After a day on the mountain, you wanna be cosy and warm in your accommodation. And we think an important part of this is footwear. Good slippers or slip-ons/sliders are a ski essential for a comfortable back home. This way you don’t need to pop your shoes on to walk on the balcony or down to the breakfast buffet, and you avoid wet socks if you need to grab something from the ski locker room.
Simple sliders or crocs such as these are a good option as they’re both comfortable and waterproof.
8. A Hat
Your body loses around 10% of its heat through your head, and when you’re in a cold and snowy ski resort this can feel much more extreme. Keep that heat in and make sure you pack a good hat as a ski trip essential item. Whether thats a simple beanie you can throw in your jacket pocket, or something more stylish, it doesn’t matter so long as you have a head covering.
Active wear brand Dare2B have got a great selection of headwear for very affordable prices.
9. Thick socks
I don’t think ski socks are an essential, but I do like to pack a good selection of hiking socks in my ski packing list. These are usually thicker and sturdier, making them warmer and less chance of rubbing or getting blisters. This is especially the case for skiers as those ski boots are pretty clunky at the best of times…. Snowboarders might almost find normal socks are fine.
Check out Simply Hike UK for a great range of sturdy walking socks.
10. Sunglasses
When the winter sun hits that snow, it can be very dazzling. And while your ski goggles are fine on the mountain, a pair of sunglasses are definitely a ski trip essential item.
We highly rate Decathlon’s range of sport sunglasses for your ski packing list. They offer wide fit and polarised sunglasses for snow for maximum protection.
Check out our list of ski sunglasses.
11. Scarf/snood
Stay warm off the mountain with a good scarf. Your neck gaiter is fine on the mountain, but will likely end up damp by the end of the day from sweat and snow. A scarf or snood will maximise your off-mountain comfort – even if you don’t end up using it.
For the best quality, pick wool or cashmere.
12. A day pack
Having a good sized day pack means you can easily carry all your ski essentials. It doesn’t need to be huge, but just enough to squeeze in most of your essentials here, plus some snacks and a bottle.
A 15 litre backpack will suffice – but if you’re expecting to go into the backcountry then you might need a bigger bag with avalanche kit.
Check out our guide to ski day packs.
Pack right…!
A fun ski trip means staying warm and comfortable. While there are a lot more things you might need to remember, we think if you’ve packed these ski trip essentials plus your standard kit (eg. toothbrush/toothpaste, change of clothes and ski wear) you’ll be fine.
Check out our comprehensive ski packing list guide for more.
