Ski Essentials: What to Pack

Knowing what to pack when you’re going skiing can be a tricky decision-making process. Too much stuff and you’ll be worn out before you’ve arrived. Too little and you’ll be reduced to a shivering wreck. We’ve stripped out our sock drawer, and slipped on our gloves to bring you the ultimate skiers packing list. Or should that be the most awesome packing tips for skiers ever compiled by this crew? You decide.

Firstly, we’re going to ignore the ski gear because it’s such a personal choice. As a fan of skiing or snowboarding (or any other snow sport ever invented by a person in a bobble hat) that you already have your skis or snowboard, boots and poles.

Therefore, the first thing going on our ski-based packing list is; snow boots, skis and ski poles. Zip.

We recommend that before everything goes in the ski bag, you lay it all out on your bed. This way, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of how much you’re packing, and the perspective will help you to do the all-important trimming.

The main non-clothing items you’re going to need are your passport, wallet and credit cards, travel tickets and first aid kit. Everything else, like music, books, and toiletries is a personal choice.

The simplest way to decide, is to gather together everything you’ve used over the last week. There’s no point taking that book, if it’s been sitting there for the last two years. You’re not going to read it.

The Bare Essentials of your Ski Trip Pack List

• Thermals — Essential for keeping you warm and dry.
• Sock and Glove Liners — Reaches parts, the thermals can’t.
• T-neck — Stops the cold seeping down your neck.
• Good socks — Keep your feet warm.
• Good fitting gloves — Essential for comfort.
• Decent hat — 85% of heat escapes through our heads.
• Neck Gaiters/Face Mask — Seal in heat around your face and neck.
• Helmet — Protection, and extra warmth.
• Goggles & Sunglasses — Critical protection for your eyes in the snow.
• After Ski Boots — Keep you warm when you’re not skiing.
• Lip Balm/Sunscreen — Prevents skin problems from extreme sunlight

If you’re heading to a ski resort, double check the facilities they have available. Chances are there are pools, spas, bars and restaurants that should all be considered when packing for the slopes.

If you’re planning on purchasing any of the ski products before you leave, consider that the resort might also have a Ski Shop, which could offer better value compared to your local retailer.

Check their website, and contact them about prices. This could save you time, and money not to mention the reduced weight of your outward-bound luggage.