You’ve booked your ski trip, and all that’s left to handle is the packing. Easy, right? While an all-inclusive ski holiday takes the hassle out of organising flights, transfers, accommodation, and catering, packing can still be a wardrobe minefield! To save you the headache of forgetting those snow essentials, turn to our ultimate ski packing list and avoid that last-minute suitcase squeeze.
Ski goggles reflection
Hand Luggage: Ski Packing List
With every Skiworld flight, you’ll benefit from a checked-in bag included in the price – so you won’t have to worry about any cabin bag confinements! Take a rucksack (preferably one you can carry skiing too for water, sun cream and other essentials) and tick off the following:
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- Passport (of course!)
- Any travel documents
- Insurance documents
- EHIC or GHIC card
- Currency
- Wallet
- Snacks (for the flight and transfer to resort – remember you’ll likely have been up early, so a few snacks can be a saviour!)
- Books, games, iPads, headphones etc. for in-flight entertainment (while a flight’s the perfect excuse for a nap, having a few distractions can make the time fly by if you get bored easily or you’re travelling with children)
- Battery pack to charge up any items
Top tip: Ski jackets are typically one of the bulkier items when packing for a ski holiday. Save on space and wear your jacket on the flight, you’ll be thankful once you arrive in resort. Plus, it can even double as a pillow!
Hold Luggage: Ski Packing List for your Holiday
What to wear when you’re skiing
It’s likely to be hovering around -1 to -5 during your trip, possibly dropping to as low as -20 with wind chill in the depth of winter. Having the right layers for the slopes can make or break your trip!
1. Ski Jacket
Depending on the time of year you travel, you’ll want either an insulated ski jacket or a light-shell style. Your jacket will act as a windbreaker to any oncoming gusts, and most importantly keep you dry with its waterproof fabric. Plus, you’ll find plenty of handy pockets to store your lift pass, emergency piste map, phone, and so on.
How many should you pack? One – we recommend using this as your only jacket for the holiday and wearing it on the flight rather than packing it into your hold luggage. You might want to bring a day-to-day winter coat too, though you’ll find the majority of people just stick to one even when wandering through resort.
2. Salopettes / Ski Trousers
You’ll also need a pair of waterproof ski trousers to keep your legs toasty and dry. These come in a variety of different styles, with the option of added braces. Ensure your trousers have an ankle guard to keep any unwanted snow from entering up your legs!
How many should you pack? One pair.
3. Base Layers
The first layer against your skin, these are snug-fitting moisture-wicking thermals – typically leggings and a long-sleeve top you’ll wear under your jacket and trousers. Particularly in the warmer spring months, you may be okay to go without thermal leggings, though remember it’s colder at the summit than the resort!
How many should you pack? You’ll want a couple of pairs of tops and bottoms to rotate on your trip, or more if you’ll be getting a sweat on.
4. Mid Layers
For an additional layer, you’ll want to pack a fleece or jumper to wear on top of your base layer and under your jacket. Again, this might not be essential, especially if your ski jacket is well insulated, but it’s handy to have if the temperature drops unexpectedly.
How many should I pack? One or two – you can also wear these off the slopes too!
5. Ski Socks
While you won’t see them during the day, a good pair of proper ski socks and your feet will be thanking you! Typically, with more cushioning around the heels, ankles and toes, these aren’t just your bog-standard sock.
How many should I pack? Around 3-5 pairs for a week, or more if you’d like a fresh pair each day.
6. Ski Gloves
Designed for skiing, you’ll need a pair of gloves to protect against the snowy conditions. If you especially feel the cold, opt for mittens to keep your fingers extra toasty.
How many should I pack? One pair – though if you’re snowboarding, you might want two pairs as you’ll likely be on your hands far more and they may not dry out properly overnight.
7. Buff/Neck Warmer
A skier’s best friend in the colder months! A buff will keep your neck and face covered when it’s windy and snowing.
How many should I pack? One or two – check the weather forecast before your trip.
8. Goggles
Whether the sun’s shining, snow starts to fall or the clouds roll in, goggles are essential to guide your route down the slopes. You can buy a range of different lenses to help with visibility across different conditions and swap these into an interchangeable pair.
How many should I pack? One pair – potentially with extra lenses.
9. Helmet
One of the most important items for skiers and boarders alike, a helmet is crucial on the pistes to protect you from any head injuries. If it’s your first time, or you don’t have your own, you can hire from an equipment rental, but otherwise, you’ll want to pack your helmet. Pad it out with your gloves, socks, and other clothing to keep it safe from any impact while in the hold.
How many should I pack? One.
Top tip: Instead of buying brand new ski gear, why not borrow from family or friends, or scout out the charity shops for second-hand?
Group of friends in ski geark
What to wear when you’re not on the slopes
Evenings in a ski resort are relaxed, so keep it casual and cosy:
- Casual everyday clothes (jeans, jumpers, loungewear)
- Winter boots (for walking through snow)
- Hat, gloves, and a scarf
- Swimsuit & flip-flops (for hot tubs or saunas)
- Slippers (makes your chalet feel like home!)
Other Essentials: Ski Packing List
Having ticked off what you need on and off the slopes clothing-wise, there are a few other essentials you’ll need for your ski holiday:
- Sunglasses (keep a pair handy for sun terraces and spritzes!)
- Sun cream – the UV rays are far stronger in altitude, so apply some sun cream to your face and neck every day (you’ll avoid the classic ski goggle tan line that way too!)
- Lip balm – crucial for cold weather
- Reusable water to fill up and keep hydrated on the mountain
- Travel adaptors
- Gopro or camera
- Ski boots and skis (if you have them!)
Could come in handy…
Still have a little space to spare? Consider these optional extras:
- Wrist guards and knee pads (particularly if you’re learning to board!)
- Glove liners (ideal for chilly January conditions, or higher altitude resorts)
- Hand warmers
Packing for a ski trip doesn’t have to be stressful! With this ski packing list, you’ll have everything you need for a hassle-free holiday. Did we miss anything? Let us know your top ski packing tips!
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