Ski Trip Packing List
Whether it’s your first time skiing or you’ve been doing it for years, here’s the ultimate ski trip checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared. Need help deciding what to buy? See our What to Pack for a Ski Trip guide.
Table of Contents
SKI & SNOWBOARD GEAR
✅Skis/Snowboard
✅Ski poles
✅Ski boots
✅Helmet
💡 Insider Tip: Renting is best for first-timers. Ski gear is expensive—only invest if you plan to ski regularly. Trust me.
SKI CLOTHING
Essentials
✅Waterproof or water-resistant ski jacket (Minimum 10,000mm waterproof rating)
✅Waterproof ski pants/Board pants (Minimum 10,000mm waterproof rating)
✅Mid layer shirt: fleece, wool sweater or lightweight down jacket
✅Thermal tops/ Base layers (avoid cotton!)
✅Thermal pants (avoid cotton!)
✅Neck warmer/Gaiter
✅Wool ski socks
💡 Insider Tip: If it’s your first trip, rent or borrow ski jackets and pants to save money.
Optional
✅Fleece jacket (ideal for very cold days)
✅Beanie
💡 Insider Tip: If you take frequent photo breaks or ski at slower speeds, a fleece jacket adds extra warmth.
SKI ACCESSORIES
Essential ski gear
✅Goggles
✅Waterproof, insulated gloves/mittens
✅Wrist guards, knee pads, protective shorts (for beginner snowboarders)
💡 Insider Tip: Rent wrist guards if it’s your first time snowboarding.
Optional
✅Sunscreen (pocket-sized)
✅Lip balm (SPF recommended)
✅Hand warmers
✅Goggles wiper
✅Water bottle or hydration pack
✅Small backpack
💡 Insider Tip: No backpack? Store lip balm, tissues, small foldable water bottle and sunscreen in your ski jacket.
OFF THE SLOPES CLOTHING
✅Winter jacket
✅Casual tops & sweaters
✅Jeans/Long pants
✅Winter hat & scarf
✅Casual gloves
✅Waterproof non-slip boots
✅Pajamas & underwear
✅Swimsuit (for hot tubs/spas)
✅Slippers & flip-flops
💡 Insider Tip: Pack socks and goggles inside ski or winter boots to save space.
TOILETRIES
✅Toothbrush & toothpaste
✅Floss & mouthwash
✅Moisturizer (cold-weather protection)
✅Hairbrush/Comb
✅Deodorant & soap
✅Shampoo & conditioner
✅Personal hygiene items
✅Razor & shaving gel
✅Cosmetics & makeup remover
✅Nail clippers & file
✅Glasses/Contacts & solution
✅First aid kit & muscle relief cream
MISCELLANEOUS
✅Ski Tickets/Passes
✅Money & ID/Driver’s license
✅Passport & travel insurance details
✅Transport & accommodation confirmations
✅Ski hire details
✅Mobile phone & charger
✅Camera/GoPro & charger
✅Headphones
✅Travel pillow
✅Day pack/Purse
✅Medications & prescriptions
✅Laundry bag & luggage lock
Have you checked everything off your ski trip checklist?
Prefer this printed? Download your ski trip packing list here.
Further and Related Readings
FAQs
Is 3 days of skiing too much?
Three days of skiing is a great duration for most skiers, whether you're a beginner easing into the sport or an experienced rider looking for a solid getaway. For packing, a three-day trip requires careful planning to ensure you have everything you need without overpacking.
What to pack for three days of skiing:
✅Ski base layers (3 sets): One per day to stay dry and fresh
✅Mid layers (1-2): Rotate a fleece or light down jacket
✅Waterproof or water-resistant ski jacket & pants (1 set): No need for multiples
✅Gloves/Mittens (1-2 pairs): One main pair and a backup if they get wet
✅Ski socks (3 pairs): Avoid cotton, opt for wool or synthetic blends
✅Neck warmer/gaiter (1): Essential for wind protection
✅Helmet & goggles: Safety first!
✅Après ski clothes: Comfortable sweaters, jeans, and boots for off-mountain activities
✅Hand/Toe warmers (optional): Perfect for extra cold days
💡 Insider Tip: If your accommodation has laundry facilities, you can pack fewer base layers and mid-layers. Also, bring moisturizer and lip balm—skiing in cold air for three days can be drying on your skin!