The ski trip packing list
Layers, goggles, and the small things that save a day on the mountain.
A ski trip is a cold-weather trip with a gear problem. The mountain asks for layers and eye protection, and the lodge asks for dry clothes at the end of the day. Pack in three groups: on the slope, off the slope, and the small things that keep a good day from going wrong.
On the slope
- A base layer top and bottom in wool or a synthetic fabric, since cotton holds moisture against your skin
- A fleece or light insulated mid layer
- A waterproof, insulated jacket and ski pants
- Two or three pairs of ski socks, so each day starts with a dry pair
- Waterproof gloves or mittens, and a thin liner pair
- A helmet, goggles, and a neck gaiter or face covering
Many resorts rent skis, boots, poles, and helmets, so you may not need to carry them. Check the resort's own page for rental prices and whether to reserve. If you fly with your own gear, airlines set their own fees and limits for ski bags.
Sun protection
Snow and altitude both raise ultraviolet (UV) exposure, and UV passes through clouds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that UV reflected off snow can nearly double the amount of UVB (a type of ultraviolet light) that reaches your eyes. It recommends sunglasses that block UV and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Read the CDC's guidance.
Off the slope, and easy to forget
- Dry clothes for after: a sweater and comfortable pants
- Warm boots or shoes with good grip for the village and the parking lot
- Lip balm and hand cream
- A power bank, kept in an inside pocket where it stays warm
- Hand and toe warmers
- A bag for wet gloves and layers on the ride back
- Your lift ticket or lesson confirmation, saved offline
Check before you go
Lift tickets, lessons, and rental rules differ by resort and by date, and not every lift and trail is open every day. Check the resort's own page for your dates, including current conditions.
Put it into practice
Choose cold weather in the planner, and the packing list adds a warm mid layer, an insulated jacket, a hat, and gloves. Put your lesson or lift ticket time under Already set, and the plan works around it.