What to pack for a ski trip

When it’s your 100th trip, you’ll have your packing list committed to memory. But for those first few, it’s hard to get it right. Too much or too little, finding the right balance can be difficult – especially when you have to consider the weather, temperature, and fight with those ever-decreasing luggage weight allowances…

That’s where we come in. We’ve been on so many trips, we can mutter what to take in our sleep. So, with winter bearing down on us, what better way to pay homage to the snow gods than to pass on the knowledge of the ultimate skiing packing list? That’s what we thought. 

Want to make sure you’re bringing the best gear possible for your upcoming trip? Then check out the latest drop of men's ski jackets and women's ski jackets on the MONTEC store.

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Packing checklist for a ski trip

The packing checklist is an essential item for any ski trip. There’s so much to take that it’s all too easy to get to the apartment or hotel room, begin unpacking, and… Oh, crap. You forgot that thing! You know, the one that’s five times more expensive to buy in resort. We’ve all been there.

As such, we thought it prudent to put together this handy, dandy list for you. Now, a word of warning — skiing in the high Rockies in January will require different items from riding Mammoth for the 4th of July weekend. But you can hopefully adjust this list for when you’re going and use it as a rough guide to have a slick week on the slopes.

Ski outerwear

Starting with the most important part! Your outerwear will protect you from the elements and make sure you stay warm and dry while skiing. We can’t stress the importance of high-quality outerwear, as it takes the most punishment and needs to stand up to all manner of abuse. 

Your preferences and the conditions will dictate whether you go full-insulated or technical shell. Whichever you choose, just make sure you pack it. Otherwise, that will be a very big egg on a very cold face!

Ski jacket

Your ski jacket is your lifeline out there. This doubles as the jacket you ski in, party in, and walk around the resort wearing. So, make sure it’s got the specs to protect you from inclement weather. 

Plus, you’ll want plenty of zipped storage. That way, you can securely carry your phone, keys, wallet, beanie, sunglasses, lip balm, and everything else that always gets stuffed into pockets when skiing…

Ski pants

Your ski pants are the next thing. Much like your ski jacket, they’ll need to protect you from the elements. But they should look good, too. And like a jacket, you can choose between shell, lined shell, and insulated ski pants. 

Usually, a lined shell paired with a merino or polyester base layer is warm enough for most situations. But if you get cold, some insulation might be necessary! Oh, and avoid technical shell pants unless you really know they’re the right choice.

Ski gloves

Your ski gloves (or mittens!) are the next outerwear item to consider. Again, you can choose from heavyweight insulated gloves with goat leather and other fancy materials.

Alternatively, you can opt for something lighter and more breathable. The ski gloves you choose depend on how much time you’ll spend with your hands in the snow. 

Ski layers

When it comes to skiing, you should be like an onion — or an ogre! — and make sure you have layers. Layering is more effective at managing heat than wearing heavily insulated jackets or a really thick fleece or sweater. 

It also provides more versatility, allowing you to layer up or down depending on the temperature. So, let’s look at the essentials below.

Base layers

One of the most important items for any skier is your base layers. These are the first layer against the skin, and you’ll wear them daily while riding. They should lock heat in and be extremely comfortable and breathable, wicking sweat away from the skin. 

Merino wool base layers are the most expensive and the best. Still, there are great and affordable synthetic options, too. For example, polyester base layers are stretchy and fleecy, so they’re super comfy. But they’re also very breathable and don’t hold on to moisture, making them the ideal choice for wearing all day long.

Midlayer

A midlayer is what you’d wear under your jacket to lock in heat. If you have a shell or lined shell ski jacket, you can definitely include a midlayer. Taking an insulated ski jacket? Ditch the midlayer altogether or just wear something thin. 

A medium-weight fleece is always a reliable and inexpensive choice, providing warmth and breathability. Something with a full zip would be the most versatile, but a half-zip also works. Want to get more technical? Look at a lightweight puffer jacket instead. 

Ski socks

Ski socks are another must for any skier’s packing list. They come in a couple of different options and fabrics, including merino wool and polyester – the same as base layers. 

However, avoid cotton socks! That’s because they’ll get sodden with sweat and likely cause blisters and other issues during the day. That’s not what you need for an awesome ski trip. 

Ski accessories

Ski accessories are an integral part of the packing list. These make the difference between a good vacation and a great one. 

Buy these things early with careful consideration, though. That’s because, at first glance, they may seem like cut-and-dry purchases. However, there’s a little nuance to them! Let’s see what we mean by that…

Face mask/neck warmer

Face masks and neck warmers come in lots of different styles and materials. These include the lightweight ‘Buff’ style face masks — which are super breathable.

However, you’ll also find fully fledged neoprene balaclavas. So, there’s something out there to suit whatever you need or prefer.

Ski helmet

If you’re going on your first trip, you’ll likely rent a helmet and other gear. Want to buy your own ski helmet? The fit will be better, and the safety standards usually higher. 

Buy your own ski helmet and you can also choose the shape and color. Plus, why not get one with important features, like SPIN (‘Shearing Pad Inside’) or MIPS (‘Multi-directional Impact Protection System’)?

Ski goggles

Ski goggles are another must for any ski trip. You can often rent a pair at resort with a helmet. However, beware that not all goggles are created equal. Plus, if you rent a pair of goggles, there’s a high chance they won’t be very good. 

Buying your own ski goggles? Polarized lenses should be your first choice. That’s because they help reduce the glare from the snow for increased visibility.

Ski equipment

Now we get to the hardware. Ski equipment is possibly the most important thing to you on this list – or the least, depending on where you are on your skiing journey.

For example, you’ll either be extremely excited to bring your own gear or you’ll be crossing your fingers, hoping the rental shop has something from this decade. Either way, let’s jump in.

Skis

Your skis should be packed in an appropriate travel bag or case so they’re sufficiently protected. Whether you’re a pow skier, want to rip groomers, or you’re after a little of both, unfortunately, we can’t advise what skis to ride. In fact, we’d never dream of it! 

However, having your own gear will take your riding to the next level. The downside is that the packing list just gets longer and longer!

Ski boots

Much like having your own skis, your own ski boots will be a massive upgrade from renting your gear. There are many brands to choose from. However, we can’t recommend trying before you buy enough.

This ensures you’ll get the correct fit and proper heat molding. Then, just bring your ski boots, as you won’t get far on the snow without them!

Ski poles

The final piece of ski hardware to consider is your poles. Once again, if you’re renting everything else, you won’t get a choice in these. 

However, if you have some ski poles, take them with you. Or don’t, and then you can be one of those psychos that ride without them – scary stuff.

Après-ski

When the day’s riding is done, there’s only one thing to do: après! And when you’re ready to take a well-deserved break, you can’t really do it without a fresh change of clothes. 

So, let’s think about what to bring when you’re not ripping the hill! With slushy streets in mind, here’s our quick-fire après-ski clothing list.

Beanie

We probably don’t need to remind you, but just in case, take a beanie! Whether you go full wool or something more functional – like acrylic or polyester – a beanie is essential to your packing list. 

Beanies keep your head warm…and hide your helmet hair. We’ve known some riders say they’re a more essential item than their actual skis! 

Winter/snow boots

An essential part of any ski trip packing list is a reliable pair of winter or snow boots. When you’re stomping through the snowy streets of your chosen resort, having something waterproof, insulated, and with plenty of grip is essential. 

Many great brands offer designed-for-purpose snow boots. So, choose something you like, and that’s comfy because you’ll be in them a lot.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a necessity on a ski trip. They’re awesome for keeping the sun out of your eyes while dancing on the patio – as well as easing the hangovers. 

Sunglasses might not seem like an obvious item to bring with you to the mountains. However, the sun gets bright up there, and the snow can throw off some nasty glare, so make sure you get a decent polarized pair!

Ski extras

Everything not covered in the above list comes next. These are non-essentials that sure come in handy. 

Check out the next few entries. And, if you have the room, why not throw them in?

Sunscreen

The sun can be vicious at high altitudes, and it’s easy to burn. Trust us: five minutes with your face mask down can lead to some gnarly raccoon face. 

So, bring sunscreen when blue skies are forecast. This ensures you’ll stay burn-free and rip-ready.

Lip balm

Another easily overlooked aspect is windburn on the lips. When riding in cold weather, it’s easy for your lips to get chapped and split. 

But there’s a simple solution, and that’s lip balm. Any sort will do, but we like the beeswax stuff as it stands up really well to cold weather!

Binding tool

A binding tool is a handy thing that doesn’t take up much room. It’ll fit in any bag or pocket and can make the difference on the mountain. 

Keep your binding tool with you to loosen, tighten, and adjust your bindings. Then, you can dial them in, whatever the terrain.

Luxury ski items

These luxury items might not suit every rider and trip. However, if you have the space to carry them, they can improve the quality of life on a ski break! 

So, let’s check out some of the life upgrades available for those not sticking to a scale reading. Once you take them on a trip, you’ll never want to be without them! 

Ski glove liners

Ski glove liners are thin gloves you wear under your ski gloves. They’re often made from polyester or merino wool, and are usually smartphone compatible. Easily overlooked, they’re super handy to have (get it?). 

The biggest benefits are definitely pulling off your gloves to check your phone in lift lines, and more dextrously carrying glasses from the bar when you’re out in the elements. The non-slip palm prints usually help with this, too! Plus, these really don’t take up a lot of space!

Boot dryer

Boot dryers may look like a medieval torture device. Still, having one with you means dry boots and socks every morning of your trip. 

Throw your boot dryer on high for ten minutes before you head out. Then, you’ll get freshly heat-molded boots! It’s the dream!

Electronic boot/glove warmers

Another fancy purchase is an electronic boot or glove warmer. Controlled from your phone, these electric heating pads help to keep you warm and toasty even in the coldest climates.

Okay, these items are space-age and pricey. However, we warned you this was a luxuries list, and if you can, why not add them to your suitcase?

Other ski essentials

What about everything else? Let’s round up the missing items to make sure you don’t arrive at the resort with no underpants. Trust us, it’s happened before!

Okay, forgetting these probably won’t ruin your trip. However, it’s the little things that are often most likely to be missed. 

Underwear

Your undergarments are a very important part of your ski packing list. Try not to use cotton if possible, as this material gets damp and soggy throughout the day, rubbing and chafing as you ride. Not nice. 

Instead, polyester or bamboo underwear are both good options. They’re less likely to give you a hard time and are much more performance-focused.

Toiletries

Toothbrush and toothpaste are the true essentials here. If you’re staying at a hotel, shampoo and body wash are usually provided as well. 

However, if you’re going self-catered, take all these with you. And another friendly reminder: sunscreen! Don’t forget it.

Sleepwear

You can always sleep in the nude. It’s so freeing! But if your usual sleeping set-up includes clothing, remember to bring it.

You’ll only need a few pairs of whatever you like for your ski trip. Showering before bed helps to keep them a little cleaner as well. That’s just a top tip for you there!

FAQs

If this is your first ski holiday, we’ve rounded up some frequently asked questions and laid out the answers to help ease the process. Think we missed one? Let us know via the email below. We’re always open to updating these articles to help fellow riders! 

What should you not wear while skiing?

Cotton is the chief thing to skip. Cotton will get damp and chafe and cause you many issues on the mountain. So avoid cotton underwear, hoodies, and anything else that uses this natural fiber.

How cheaply can you ski?

There are lots of ways to ski cheaply. The major cost is staying at the resort: hotels, lift tickets, and rentals. Still, you can cut these costs by staying outside the resort center, choosing a small resort with cheaper passes, borrowing ski equipment, or buying second-hand stuff so you’re not paying for new.

Can you be eco-friendly while skiing?

Yes! Thanks to their commitment to being eco-friendly, Jackson Hole, Whistler, and Aspen are all heralded as environmentally friendly resorts. These are good choices if you’re trying to be green!

Should I rent or bring my own skis?

This comes down to whether or not you know what you want. If you don’t really know the skis you want ride, there’s no point buying them. But as you improve, you’ll find yourself more discerning. So, at that point, it may be time to pull the trigger.

How thick should ski socks be?

Midweight ski socks are usually the best, as they offer a perfect balance between cushioning and breathability. Thick socks might be more comfortable at first, but they will affect boot fit, make your feet sweat, and cause blisters. So, resist the urge!

Wrapping up

Well, that’s it: our ultimate packing list. Hopefully, you can use this to ace your packing when it’s time to head out for your next ski trip. 

Think we missed something? Email us at crew@montecwear.com and share your expertise! We’ll see you out there – and hopefully you’ll have everything you need! 

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