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What to Wear on a Ski Trip – Ultimate Ski Packing List

Heading up for a weekend on the slopes? You’re going to want to dedicate some time to planning your packing list. We are here to help you with the ultimate ski packing list.

Skiing is a fun winter activity that involves spending hours out in the cold, wet outdoors, so it requires some extra gear and packing considerations. Don’t worry though! It’s nothing you can’t handle!

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ski gear

What’s In This Ski Trip Packing Guide?

In this what to wear guide, we’re covering all the essentials you need to bring along for a fun and safe mountain adventure. From thermal base layers to soul-warming beverages, your ski resort packing list is guaranteed to keep you toasty inside and out. So get ready to be a skiing pro in no time!

Essential Ski Gear

Skiing is one of the most thrilling winter activities, but it does come with a bit of risk. Statistically speaking, serious skiing accidents are rare, with catastrophic injuries occurring at a rate of about .085 for every one million skiers. However, there are some important things you can do, such as wearing medical ID tags and choosing the right helmet, to diminish risk as you bask in the powder.

 

ski gear
  • A properly-fitting ski helmet. If you’re an avid skier, we recommend getting a helmet of your own rather than renting one. Be sure to get your helmet sized at a ski shop to ensure it’s the right fit.
  • Ski goggles. Your ski goggles not only protect your peepers from injury caused by snow or debris, but they’re also your main defense against sun damage. Be sure to grab a pair that features UV-blocking lenses to keep your eyes safe.  
  • Snowboard or skis. If you own your own skis or snowboard, pack them inside your ski bag! Otherwise, make plans to rent equipment before your trip.
  • Ski poles. Same deal here. Pack the poles you have, or rent a pair from your local ski shop.
  • Ski boots. Make sure to bring your own boots, otherwise, grab a pair to rent from your local ski shop.
  • Waterproof ski jacket or hardshell. We all know that you’re only as warm as your best jacket, so don’t skimp here, either. Buying a quality ski jacket will protect you not only from the elements, but also falls and other accidents on the mountains. Look for a ski jacket with an integrated hood to keep your head warm, plus plenty of pockets for gloves, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.
  • Waterproof snow pants or bibs. Whether you’re sailing down a black diamond or the bunny hill, we all take the occasional tumble from time to time. Durable outer layers including waterproof pants will help seal out snow should you meet the snow.
  • Ski suit. If you are skiing with younger children, you can opt for separate jacket and ski bibs or go with a ski suit.

Travel Tip – If you’re going to be renting equipment, be sure to arrive early enough at the rental shop so that they have time to size you correctly and repair any damages from the use by other skiers/snowboarders.

woman in ski googles

Ski Safety Equipment

  • ID bracelets for the whole family. What’s just as important as your park passes? Your family’s medical alert bracelets! Have the whole family wear an ID bracelet with their name, emergency contact, allergies, medications, etc. 
  • Foldable snow shovel. In case of emergencies, it’s smart to pack a foldable snow shovel in your bag. If someone gets caught in an avalanche or is buried under a pile of powder, being able to dig out will come in handy!
  • Avalanche beacon. If you haven’t heard of avalanche beacons, they are devices that send out an electronic signal which helps rescuers find people buried in the snow. You should definitely have one if you’re headed to a mountain where there could be avalanches, but it can also come in handy if you get lost in the woods or someone else does.

What to Wear On a Ski Trip

Layers Upon Layers

What you wear skiing can drastically affect how much you enjoy the trip. Who wants to spend their time on the slopes shivering or dealing with frozen fingers? Or, on the flipside, a nasty sunburn? When not on the slopes and enjoying aprés ski, dressing in layers is essential too.

The right skiing apparel helps contribute to your safety as well. Remember: Frostbite is a real risk in many skiing conditions, so don’t take dressing for the day lightly.

family skiing
  • Moisture-wicking base layers. Your base layer is your first line of defense against cold and heat, so make sure they wick away moisture and help regulate your body temp. Opt for a technical, synthetic fabrics or Merino wool for your base layers. Both do an excellent job wicking moisture while being lightweight. Yak wool is another excellent fabric but comes with a high price point. Base layer brands we love include Smartwool, Nui Organics, and Ibex.
  • Waterproof ski jacket or hardshell. We all know that you’re only as warm as your best jacket, so don’t skimp here, either. Buying a quality ski jacket will protect you not only from the elements, but also falls and other accidents on the mountains. Look for a ski jacket with an integrated hood to keep your head warm, plus plenty of pockets for gloves, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.
  • Insulated winter jacket. I like to pack at least two jackets on a winter trip. My go-to for winter travel is always a down or bison fiber jacket that’s lightweight, packable, and warm! For the last year, this Bison Ultralight by United by Blue has been my go-to for a puffy jacket and my this North Face parka for really cold weather.
  • Sweaters. Wool and cashmere sweaters provide warmth, protect against the cold, and don’t become heavy or wet compared to other fabrics like cotton or polyester. They can also be worn for other activities such as aprés ski. You can find some great options at REI, United by Blue, and Nordstrom Rack.
  • Hat, earmuffs or balaclava. That downhill wind can be seriously wicked, so make sure you go heavy on the protection for your head and ears.
  • Face mask. Another great form of protection in the cold months is a face mask.
  • Neck gaiter or scarf. While many of the best ski jackets come with full-zip, wind-proof collars, you may still want to add a water-repellent scarf or neck warmers into the mix to prevent that ice-cold air from sneaking in.
  • Waterproof gloves and lightweight gloves. You should pack a few different styles of gloves for your ski trip, including one waterproof pair — perhaps a heated option if it’s super-cold — and one lightweight, thin pair for more active duties like unloading the car or running out for snacks.
  • Hand warmers. Be sure to pack a few hand warmers and store inside your gloves or jacket to keep your hands nice and toasty. You can opt for disposable hand warmers like these from Ignik or a rechargeable version like this one that I have from Celestron that doubles as a phone charger.
  • Waterproof snow boots. Of course, you’ll be wearing your ski boots down the hill, but when you’re not in your skiis, pack a pair of comfortable, warm, and waterproof winter boots.
  • Sneakers or hiking boots. If you’re not hitting the slopes, bring along a pair of comfortable sneakers or hiking boots to wear on your way to-and-from the resort.
  • Thick socks. Socks are clutch when you’re dealing with nippy, unpredictable weather, so make sure you choose carefully. A non-bulky, high-tech synthetic or wool fabric is best. I really like a pair that goes knee high to protect against the snow and cold.
  • Swimsuit. Many ski resorts have hot tubs, heated pools, and saunas to take the chill off in the evening, so don’t forget your swim gear so you can releax in the hot tub. For women, I love the athletic swimwear from Title Nine. They are perfect for active women like me and look great. For kids, Land’s End offers some great styles for all ages. For men, the swim trunks from Patagonia are my boys’ go-tos.
  • Pajamas. Make sure you pack comfy pajamas to slip into after a full day of fun in the snow.

For more on our favorite sustainable outdoor clothing brands and what I actually packed for a trip to Alaska, see this article on what to pack for a cold weather trip.

group skiing

Ski Trip Essentials and Extras

Besides the standard, there are some things you might want to toss in your pack to ensure that you’re comfortable while shredding the slopes and entertained when you’re back at the lodge après-ski. 

  • Travel Insurance. We never go anywhere without travel insurance these days. Between the risk of having to cancel trips due to a positive covid test to flight delays and cancellations, I just don’t want to risk it. I have an annual plan because it is cheaper for me than single-trip coverage. I’ve submitted a few claims to Allianz Travel Insurance, so my coverage already pays for itself. For single trips though, I highly recommend using Squaremouth to shop around and find the best policy with Covid coverage to protect your travel investment.
  • Sunscreen. Hey, who says you can’t get sunburned when it’s snowing out? In fact, high-altitude sun is especially damaging because it reflects off snow and ice, which can cause sunburn. Don’t skip the sunscreen! I’ve been using mineral sunscreen for years and my favorite brand is Sun Bum for its effectiveness and how it goes on without the white streak.
  • Sunglasses. Ideally, your ski goggles will have UV-blocking lenses for on-slope protection, but you’ll still need shades when you’re out of your gear. You can find the best gear for skiing online and ensure your safety when outdoors.
  • Toasty beverages. One of the best parts about a productive day on the slopes is cuddling up by the fire in the lodge or your villa afterwards. Make it even more enjoyable with some hot chocolate or spiked cider. 
  • Slope-friendly snacks. Be sure to pack plenty of sustenance to snack on in between runs. Granola bars and protein bars are a great option!
  • Fun games for the lodge. Don’t forget to pack a deck of cards and your family’s favorite board games for some lodge fun at the end of the day. If it’s an adults-only trip, recruit the crew for a few fun winter drinking games.
  • Lip balm and lotion. The cold, dry air can really mess with your skin and lips, so make sure to keep the moisturizers on hand at all times.

So there you have it — an uncomplicated, comprehensive list of things to bring along the next time you head out for a ski trip. Whether this is your first time skiing or your hundredth, these essentials will help ensure that you’re able to post up and enjoy one of the best parts of winter without worry. Happy trails to you! Enjoy your next ski trip!

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

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