If you’re planning to hit the slopes, it can be tricky to know what to pack. You don’t want to forget anything you’ll need, but you don’t want to over-stuff your baggage with things you’ll never use. So, whether you’re an avid skier or going for the first time, check out our top tips for packing for a skiing trip.
Base layers
This foundation of your various layers will help keep you warm and dry. They’re usually long-sleeved tops paired with warm, thin trousers. One set will do if you’re only heading away for a weekend. However, if you’re skiing for longer, you’ll need more. 3-4 should do for a ski trip of 7 days. Natural fibres won’t keep you as dry as artificial ones, but they won’t get as smelly.
Sun tan lotion and lip balm
This may seem out of place on a packing list for a ski trip, but both sun tan lotion and lip balm are vital for ski trips. While it may be chilly on the slopes, the sun reflects off the snow, making it much stronger than you might expect. The cold, crisp air can also make your lips sore and dry; use lip balm to counter this. You’ll need both of these on your trip, and it’s a lot cheaper to buy them at home and bring them with you.
Socks
Bring plenty of socks with you. Whether you prefer regular socks or specialist ski socks, bring at least one pair for every day you plan to ski. They’ll protect your feet under your ski boots, and a couple of spare pairs couldn’t hurt, either. If you have access to a washing machine, you can afford to pack fewer pairs and wash them during your trip. The same rules apply to your underwear.
Ski equipment
If you’re not renting your gear, you’ll need to bring your ski equipment when you travel. We’ve included a checklist of the most common items you’ll need to bring.
- Thermal layers (ideally fleece or lamb’s wool)
- Waterproof, breathable ski pants
- Ski gloves
- Goggles
- Sunglasses for glare
- Ski helmet
- Ski boots
- Any required protective gear or knee braces
- Ski jacket
- Walking boots
Some items, such as the ski jacket and walking boots, can be worn for your journey, saving valuable space in your suitcase.
Other than this, you should pack all the usual things you’d include for a trip, such as;
- Clothes
- Toiletries
- Chargers
- Travel documents
Once your packing is sorted, and you’ve arranged your skiing travel insurance, you can look forward to enjoying your ski trip, whether it’s your first or your hundredth.