The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List
Wondering what you need on your ski trip packing list? These are the essentials (and more) I always make sure I bring so I can stay comfy and cozy during ski season. This list can be used for both skiers and snowboarders alike – the clothing section is basically the same, with the only difference really falling into the gear section.
I’ve also created an easy ski trip packing infographic for you at the bottom of the page – feel free to print or grab a screenshot 🙂
This post is all about what to include on your ski trip packing list.
YOUR ULTIMATE SKI TRIP PACKING LIST TO PREPARE FOR THE SLOPES
SKI / SNOWBOARD GEAR
Let’s start with gear. The first question to ask yourself is whether you’re going to be renting or bringing your own skis / snowboard. If you’re a beginner, I would recommend renting all your gear at a rental shop. Associates at ski rental shops will do their best to get you fitted with the right gear, tailored to your level and preferences. By renting gear, you can try out different types of skis or snowboards and figure out what you like best before committing to buying one.
Most mountains and ski resorts have a ski rental shop, but they do tend to be more expensive to rent from than your local sporting goods store. So if you’re driving and want to save a few bucks, try to find a place off the mountain to rent from.
Not planning on renting? Getting new gear can definitely be a huge investment (especially if you’re looking for quality and longevity). A more budget friendly option is buying used gear. I recommend checking Facebook Marketplace, Offer-Up, local used sporting goods shops, or if your area has a ski-swap event!
If you’re planning on bringing your own gear, here’s what you can’t forget on your ski trip packing list.
#1: SKIS / SNOWBOARD WITH BINDINGS
The list of options for skis and snowboards seems endless. There are a lot of considerations you’ll need to take into account when buying new gear that can make it a difficult decision. To help you out, here are two articles from REI that provide pretty extensive guidance when it comes to choosing a pair of skis or snowboard.
Both articles list key factors that you should take into account when making a decision, outline the different types of skis or snowboards, and provide a sizing chart.
In addition to buying the skis or snowboard, make sure you have a good pair of bindings. Double check that your bindings are compatible with your gear! I’ve made the mistake of buying incompatible bindings and oof, it can be a headache.
#2: SKI POLES
The most important thing to look for when you’re buying poles is to ensure they’re the right height for you. Here’s a great article that REI posted about how to choose the right poles – it includes a ski pole sizing chart that you can reference.
If you’re a snowboarder, ignore this section.
#3: SKI / SNOWBOARD BOOTS
Fit and performance are the big factors you should take into consideration when looking for boots. They are the key link between you and your gear, so ensuring you find a comfortable match is important. Take a look at these two EVO articles for choosing boots:
How to Choose Ski Boots – Size, Fit & Flex
How to Choose Snowboard Boots – Fit, Flex & Compatibility
#4: SNOW GLOVES / MITTENS
A good pair of waterproof, insulated gloves will do you a lot of good on the mountain. Having cold fingers can make for a miserable trip and take away from the fun. There are a few different types of products that you can get: gloves, mittens or lobsters (the intersection of gloves AND mittens).
I personally like gloves the best since it’s nice to have separate functionality of all your fingers. However, if your hands tend to get more cold, you should opt for mittens or lobsters. Either will allow your fingers to share heat and keep your hands a bit warmer. Lobsters are definitely a good middle ground, where you can keep your hands warmer than gloves but have more dexterity than mittens.
#5: GOGGLES
Goggles are a must-have on your ski trip packing list. When riding down the mountain, these will protect your eyes from snow particles and wind. Choose a pair that is snug and fits well on your face. Here’s a recent article of the top rated ski googles of 2022 – 2023.
#6: SNOW HELMET (optional, but highly recommended)
Snow sports, while fun, can be dangerous. Don’t risk a head injury and get a good helmet! Beyond wearing one for safety, helmets also do a fantastic job of keeping your head warm.
#7: FACE GAITER / MASK (optional)
Face gaiters or masks are a nice to have, but can make a world of a difference on a cold, windy day. I highly recommend packing some just in case – they don’t have to run too expensive either! This face gaiter set of two from Amazon has 30k+ reviews and a 4.3 star rating.
#6: BACKPACK (optional)
Bringing a backpack is optional, but by doing so, you’ll be a better equipped to handle a longer day on the mountain. I usually pack a handful of granola bars, some water, and a portable phone charger. Having these essential items at all times has made every excursion 10x more enjoyable, since you don’t have to run into the lodge/back to the car every time you’re hungry or thirsty.
If you do bring a backpack, just note that you’ll need to take it off when riding the ski lift. This can be a bit tricky to maneuver, so only bring a backpack if you’re already confident and comfortable with getting on the ski lift.
CLOTHING ESSENTIALS
ON THE MOUNTAIN
Layers, layers, and more layers. Layering is probably the number one thing you should think about when it comes to creating your ski trip packing list. By packing a variety of clothing options, you’ll be the best prepared for all different mountain conditions. I’ve organized this list into top layers, middle layers, and base layers. Top and base layers are the ones you really don’t want to forget, while the middle ones will help provide you flexibility based on the weather. I’m also writing this list assuming you’ll be skiing in the colder winter months, so if you’re reading this during spring season, feel free to pick and choose depending on how warm it is.
TOP LAYERS
#1: SKI JACKET
Having a warm, waterproof ski jacket is crucial to staying warm while skiing or snowboarding. There are a bunch of different types of ski jackets, but I would recommend buying an insulated jacket. They keep heat much better than shell jackets since they come with an extra layer built-in.
I have this ski jacket from Montec and I absolutely love it. It keeps me warm on the mountains, is super sleek, and has easily accessible pockets! Highly recommend.
Also, here’s a good article from Backcountry on how to pick a good ski jacket if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.
#2: SKI PANTS / SKI OVERALLS
When looking for a pair of ski pants or overalls, make sure they that they are waterproof and fit well. If they’re a bit loose, wear a belt. When I first started snowboarding, my pants were way too big and every time I fell, snow went straight into my pants and down my leg. To avoid that, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to get a pair that actually fits.
I got a pair like these from Zumiez – two features I really like are 1) having a belt loop and 2) having zippers at the bottom of the pants. The zippers at the bottom allow you to fit the pants snugly over your boots – aka, preventing snow from getting in.
I haven’t gotten ski overalls in a while, but here’s a link to Amazon’s Choice with a 4.6 star rating and over 38k reviews!
MIDLAYERS
Like I said in the intro, packing a decent amount of mid-layers will help provide some flexibility when it comes to weather. Here are the different types of mid-layers I put on my ski trip packing list.
#3: HOODIES
Hoodies are my go-to mid-layer because they provide neck warmth AND head warmth if needed. If you decide to wear a helmet (and I highly advise that you do, head injuries are no joke!), make sure to get a hoodie that’s big enough to go over your helmet.
I usually like to have a few hoodies of different thickness so I can choose depending on what the weather is that day. Also, they’re good to bring for lounging around in!
#4: CREWNECKS / QUARTER-ZIPS
Crewnecks and quarter-zips are good items to pack since they can often be less bulky/heavy than hoodies. These are perfect for a day that isn’t too cold or windy.
BASELAYERS
#5: THERMAL PANTS / LEGGINGS
You’ll need a good pair of thermal pants or leggings to keep you warm under your ski pants. I usually just go with a thicker pair of leggings, but you can also get fleeced lined pants if you’re looking for something more insulated. Opt for something that is more breathable and you can easily move in. Do NOT wear jeans.
#6: UNDERSHIRTS
Bring at least one long sleeve undershirt for each day you’re planning to be skiing or snowboarding. A good undershirt should be more fitted as it will go underneath both your mid-layers and jacket. Since this is the clothing touching your skin, most people prefer moisture-wicking material as it is breathable and fast-drying.
#7: SKI SOCKS
Ski socks have two functions – 1. to keep your feet warm (duh) and 2. to provide comfort in your ski/snowboard boots. The key to accomplishing both is to get thick, long socks. I recommend investing in high quality ones – one of the worst feelings on the slopes is when your feet go numb from the cold. By putting a few good pairs on your ski packing list, you’ll be set to hit the mountain all day.
Here’s a link to the highest rated pair on Amazon.
OFF THE MOUNTAIN
Although most of the big items on this ski trip packing list are to prepare you for when you’re on the mountain, don’t forget to pack clothes for when you’re lounging around or hanging out after the ski day is over. This list will vary based on what activities you have planned in addition to skiing, but here’s a quick essentials list that might spark some ideas:
TOPS
- Undershirts / Tops
- Sweaters
- Hoodies / Crewnecks / Quarter-zips
- Vest
COATS
- Puffer Jacket / Parka
BOTTOMS
- Leggings
- Pants / Jeans
- Sweats
SLEEPWEAR
- PJs
- Slippers
OTHER
- Bras/Underwear/Undergarments
- Socks
- Swimsuit (if there’s a pool you’re planning on going to!)
SHOES
- Boots / Sneakers
OTHER ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR SKI TRIP PACKING LIST
Here are a few ski trip specific items that I would highly recommend packing.
LIFT TICKET
Check if your destination has online tickets. Often, you can buy tickets for cheaper online and pick up the physical pass at the mountain. This will allow you to save some time by avoiding the lines.
PAIN MEDICINE
Fingers-crossed you aren’t sore and don’t fall, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared!
HAND/FEET WARMERS
Not a must have, but throw a bunch of these into your backpack and bring them with you. They’re a nice way to warm up if you’re cold on the mountain. You can even activate them to put into your pockets/mittens/boots, which will keep you extra toasty while skiing or snowboarding.
PORTABLE pHONE CHARGER
A quick Google search will tell you that your phone loses power way quicker when it faces a large drop in temperature. Pack a portable phone charger to make sure you have enough battery to last the day.
MOISTURIZING FACE & BODY LOTION
It’s going to be cold. Your skin will most likely be dry. Make sure to bring lotion.
LIP BALM
I seriously live and swear by Aquaphor Lip Repair (or any Aquaphor balm). This product has repaired the worst, cracked lips I’ve ever had and helped soothe the stinging within a few hours. I’ve been using Aquaphor products on my lips for the past 10 years and recommend it to almost anyone and everyone.
Anyway, bring a super moisturizing lip balm and make sure you pack it when you’re on the slopes.
SNACKS
Skiing or snowboarding all day can be exhausting. Pack a few snacks that you’ll want both on the mountain and off. Protein/granola bars are easy ones to bring with you in a backpack or jacket pocket!
PRINTABLE SKI TRIP PACKING LIST
