Things to Pack for a Ski Trip
With ski season upon us, I’m looking ahead and reviewing my things to pack for a ski trip. What do I need to replace? Do I need new ski socks? How do my ski pants fit?…You get the picture!
For a new skier, preparing for a trip can be daunting. That’s why I crafted a ski checklist. Follow along and make sure you have everything you need from head to toe for your next adventure.
Clothing & Gear
Base Layer
Look for long underwear (top and bottom) made of synthetic or wool fabric. There are many brands and prices ranges to choose from such as, Smartwool, Patagonia or Costco even sells long underwear. Cotton is a no no as it doesn’t wick sweat away from your body. Stay away from anything cotton.
Ski Pants
Insulated and waterproof ski pants are what you need. They will keep you warm and dry no matter what the weather. Don’t skimp here on gear. Ski pants don’t come cheap but they will last for years to come. I’ve been happy with Helly Hansen pants.
Although I like look of ski bibs, I opted for ski pants instead. I find pants more practical when going to the bathroom…you don’t have to take off all your gear when hitting the restroom!
Mid Layer
Wearing a fleece or merino wool long sleeve for additional warmth is a perfect mid layer. I like a zip up fleece because you can unzip it if you’re getting too hot. Again, stay away from cotton and look for synthetic or merino wool materials that will stay dry and keep you warm.
Ski Jacket
An insulated, waterproof and breathable ski jacket is a must to keep you comfortable on the slopes. I’m partial to the Helly Hansen Powderqueen ski jacket. It keeps me warm and I love the accessibility of pockets which is key.
Ski Socks
Look for ski socks made of merino wool or a synthetic blend. They will dry quickly and wick sweat. Wear only one pair of socks and don’t layer them.
TIP: when putting on ski boots, wear your sock in the boot only. Pull long underwear up, so it rests above your ski boot. Otherwise, the long underwear and sock will rub in the boot and chafe your shin. Trust me, it’s NOT FUN!
Gloves/Mittens
Insulated & waterproof gloves or mittens are a must. My hands always get cold so I like mittens and wear a glove liner inside the mitten. This is key when taking mittens on and off, I still have a liner on which allows me full use of my hands while keeping them warm. Dakine makes mittens and nice glove liners.
Baclava
This is a necessary piece of gear since it protects your face from wind and snow. I prefer the Turtlefur brand balaclavas. Worn under your helmet, they cover your ears , neck and face. Also it stays in place while skiing and keeps your warm.
Helmet & Goggles
Back in the day, we never wore ski helmets or goggles. Times have changed! Now I won’t ski without one. Goggles protect your eyes from UV rays and the elements like wind and snow.
Winter Boots
Don’t forget to bring along a pair of winter boots you can wear after skiing. Walking to/from the car and around the ski resort is much easier this way.
Equipment
Skis/Boots/Poles
I prefer renting equipment for myself and especially for my kids. Because they grow so fast, I don’t feel it’s worth the investment to purchase skis for them. As far as myself, I prefer to rent because I don’t like traveling with skis. We live in the Midwest and have to fly somewhere if we want anything more than Midwest skiing. Ski rentals have come a long way and rental shops stay current with the latest gear. One less thing to worry about!
Once you’ve gathered everything, you’re ready to hit the slopes! I’m looking forward to this years ski season and hope my list of things to pack for a ski trip makes it easier for you to plan out what you need.
Websites I’m partial to when purchasing ski gear:
Peter Glenn – Peter Glenn offers great deals on all name brand ski gear. I purchased all my ski clothes here at discounted prices.