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Heading to the snow? Let’s make sure you’re prepped for a cozy and fun adventure!
If you’re wondering what to pack for your next snow adventure, you’re in the right place! With over 18 years of experience packing for myself and my family on countless trips to snowy destinations, I’ve learned exactly what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to staying warm, comfortable, and ready for anything. In this blog post, I’m sharing my tried-and-true packing tips so you can confidently gear up for your trip without forgetting a thing. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just playing in the snow, this guide has you covered!
Start with warm, comfy layers, don’t forget the essentials and waterproof winter boots that’ll handle snow and ice like a pro. With the right gear, you’ll stay warm and ready for all the snow-filled fun. And you won’t be the person the leave an important item behind for a snow trip!
Gear Up for the Perfect Adventure with the Best Snow Ski Trip Packing List
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or hitting the snow for the first time, packing the essentials ensures your trip is stress-free and unforgettable.
Secondly, remember to bring all necessary ski or snowboard equipment if you’re not renting, including skis/snowboard, boots, poles, and a helmet. For safety, carry a basic first aid kit, along with a map, compass, or GPS device, and a fully charged cell phone or satellite communicator for emergencies. From must-have clothing layers and safety gear to snacks and entertainment for downtime, this packing list covers everything you need for a seamless snow adventure.
The Most Complete List of What to Pack for a Snow Ski Trip
Ski & Snowboarding Apparel Ski Clothing
So when it come to crush it on the slopes you can have gear that’s as stylish as it is functional! From cozy insulated jackets to tough snow pants that can handle anything, we’ve got you covered. Stay warm, dry, and comfortable so you can focus on the best part—carving through that fresh powder like a pro.
Undergarments: Base Layer
When visiting the slopes it is important to stay warm and comfortable, your base layer is your MVP. These undergarments are the foundation of your ski outfit, designed to wick away moisture while keeping you cozy all day long. A good base layer not only regulates your body temperature but also prevents that chilly, damp feeling that can ruin a day in the snow. Whether you prefer lightweight or thermal options, investing in high-quality base layers ensures you’ll stay warm and dry, no matter how cold it gets on the mountain.
Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Pattern Crew Base Layer – 100% Merino Wool
Smartwool Women’s Merino 150 Baselayer Long Sleeve
Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Baselayer Bottom
Smartwool Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Wool Base Layer
Ski Socks
Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion Pattern OTC Sock – Women’s
Balaclava / Neck Gaiter
Minus33 Merino Wool Micro Weight Woolverino Multiclava
Shy Velvet Balaclava Wind-Resistant
Mid-Layer
Spyder Womens Soar Full Zip Baselayer Top
Hoodies / Shirts
Volcom Womens Riding Hydro Hoodie Fleece Snowboard Ski Sweatshirt
Fleece jacket
Columbia Women’s Benton Springs Full Zip
Puffy Jacket
The North Face Women’s Aconcagua 3 Jacket
Outerwear Shell Ski Jacket
The North Face Women’s Freedom Stretch Jacket
Spyder Women’s Standard Paradise Insulated Ski Jacket
Spyder Women’s Skyline Insulated Ski Jacket
Winter Coat
The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka
Snowboard / Ski Pants
Spyder Women’s Section Insulated Ski Pant
The North Face Women’s Freedom Insulated Bib
Gloves and/or Mittens
The North Face Women’s Montana Insulated Ski Glove
The North Face Women’s Montana Insulated Ski Mitt
2. Ski and Snowboarding Equipment /gear
Gear Up for the Slopes: The Essentials You Need for Skiing and Snowboarding
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a snowboarding newbie, your equipment can make or break your experience. The right gear not only enhances your performance but also keeps you warm, comfortable, and safe in ever-changing alpine conditions.
From choosing the perfect skis or snowboard, we’ll break down everything you need to know about ski and snowboarding gear. Whether you’re renting or investing in your own equipment, this guide will help you with every item you need to hit the powder fully prepared for an epic day on the mountain.
So, let’s dive in—because when it comes to winter sports, the right gear is more than just an accessory—it’s your ticket to adventure!
Skis/Snowboard
Women’s Rossignol 2025 Soulside Snowboard
Snowboard / Ski Boots
Ski Poles
Helmet
Giro Ledge Ski – Snowboarding Helmet
Ski Goggles
Oakley Flight Deck M Snow Goggle
Rub-On Wax
ZUMWax RUB ON WAX Ski/Snowboard
Rent Or Bring Your Own Skis Or Snowboard?
One of the biggest questions skiers and snowboarders face before hitting the slopes is whether to rent gear at the resort or bring their own. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, so the best choice often depends on factors like your skill level, frequency of trips, and travel logistics. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide.
Bringing Your Own Skis or Snowboard: The Pros
Using your own gear has some undeniable perks. Familiarity is a big one—you know exactly how your skis or snowboard handle, which can boost your confidence on the slopes. Over time, owning your equipment can also save money, especially if you’re a frequent skier or snowboarder, as rental costs add up quickly. Plus, your gear is customized to your preferences, from the fit of your boots to the bindings, ensuring a more consistent and enjoyable experience. Another bonus? You get to skip the long rental lines and the stress of dealing with potentially ill-fitting gear at a busy resort.
And the Cons
That said, bringing your own equipment isn’t without challenges. Transporting skis or a snowboard can be a hassle, especially if you’re flying—oversized baggage fees and lugging bulky gear through airports aren’t exactly fun. Owning your gear also means committing to regular maintenance like waxing, sharpening edges, and replacing worn parts, which takes time and effort. And let’s not forget the upfront investment—quality skis or snowboards, along with boots and bindings, can be pricey. It’s worth weighing the convenience of renting versus the long-term value of owning before deciding what works best for you.
Renting Skis or Snowboards: The Pros
Honestly, renting gear can be super convenient, especially if you don’t want the hassle of lugging skis or a snowboard around. Most resorts have solid rental options, so you can just grab your gear when you get there—no need to stress about transporting it. Plus, renting lets you try out different equipment. If you’ve been curious about powder skis or freestyle snowboards, this is your chance to experiment without committing to buying. And if you’re like me and only hit the slopes a couple of times a year, renting can save you money since you’re not shelling out for your own gear and all the upkeep that comes with it. The rental shop takes care of waxing and repairs, so you just get to focus on having fun.
The Cons of Renting Gear
That said, renting isn’t always perfect. The gear might not fit you as well as your own would, which can be annoying if you’re spending all day on the slopes. And don’t even get me started on those rental lines at busy resorts—it can take forever, and by the time it’s your turn, the best gear might already be taken. If you’re skiing or snowboarding regularly, renting can also get pricey fast, and at some smaller places, the equipment might not be the newest or best maintained. So, while renting is great for the occasional trip, if you’re out there a lot, it might be worth thinking about investing in your own setup. Just something to keep in mind!
Which Option is Best for You?
Renting might be better if:
- You’re a beginner or don’t ski/snowboard often.
- You’re traveling internationally or taking multiple flights with limited luggage space.
- You want to experiment with different types of gear before committing to a purchase.
Bringing your own gear might be better if:
- You’re an experienced skier or snowboarder and value the familiarity of your own equipment.
- You travel frequently to ski and want to save on rental costs.
- You’re driving to the slopes and don’t mind transporting your gear.
Ultimately, the choice between renting and bringing your own skis or snowboard comes down to your priorities and lifestyle. Consider how often you ski, your budget, and the logistics of your trip to make the best decision for your next adventure on the slopes!
3. Mountain Casual Attire (Non-Ski Clothing) Après Clothing After You’re Done Riding
Stay Cozy and Stylish: Mountain Casual and Après-Ski Clothing Essentials
Hitting the slopes is just part of the mountain experience. Once the skis or snowboard are set aside, it’s time to unwind and enjoy the après-ski scene in comfort and style. Whether you’re grabbing a hot cocoa by the fire, exploring a charming mountain town, or enjoying dinner with friends, having the right non-ski attire is essential for staying cozy and looking great off the slopes.
From warm, layered casual outfits to effortlessly chic après-ski wear, the key is finding clothing that balances functionality with comfort. Let’s dive into the essentials for mountain casual and après-ski attire to ensure you’re prepared for every part of your alpine adventure!
Swimsuit
Flipflops
OLUKAI Ohana Women’s Beach Sandals
Shoes / Snow Boots
Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot
Spyder Women’s Conifer Insulated Winter Boots
T-Shirts
Spyder Women’s Arc Graphene Tech S/S Top
Jeans / Pants
BALEAF Women’s Fleece Lined High Waisted Leggings
Joe’s Jeans Women’s The Mia Coated
Women’s 207 Vintage Jeans, High-Rise Wide-Leg Colors
Sleeping Clothes
PajamaGram Snuggle Fleece Womens Pajamas – Ladies Pajamas
Slippers
UGG Women’s Scuffette II Slipper
Hoodies / Sweatshirts
UGG Women’s Joanne Bonded Fleece Hoodie Sweater
Gloves
The North Face Etip Recycled Gloves
Accessories
Phone + Phone Plug
4. Toiletry Essentials
Alright, let’s talk about what toiletries to pack for a ski trip—you don’t want to forget these! First off, the cold and altitude can really dry out your skin, so make sure you pack a good moisturizer and a lip balm with SPF. Trust me, the sun is way stronger up there than you’d think, so sunscreen is a must, even if it’s freezing. I’d also throw in a small first-aid kit—blister pads are a lifesaver if your boots start rubbing, and some pain relievers can help with sore muscles after a full day on the slopes. Oh, and don’t rely on the lodge for toiletries; bring your own travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash just in case. Lastly, pack some hand warmers and tissues—you’ll thank me when you’re out in the cold!
Scissors, Tweezers, Nail Clippers, Razor
Hair Brush / Comb
ChapStick Classic Collection Flavored Lip Balm Pack
5. Miscellaneous Necessities
Compression Packing Cubes for Travel
OCOOPA Hand Warmers Rechargeable, 1 Pack 5200mAh Electric Portable Pocket Heater, Heat Therapy Great for Raynauds, Hunting, Golf, Camping, Women Mens Gifts
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
Wheeled Ski or Snowboard Bag
Winterial Rolling Expandable Snowboard and Ski Bag
Osprey Transporter Travel Duffel Bag
Finally, I know it can feel like a lot—boots, jackets, goggles, layers—but trust me, once you’re out there, it’s so worth it. The key is to stay warm, dry, and comfy so you can actually enjoy those runs (and maybe even the après-ski hot cocoa).
Double-check your list, make sure your gear fits (no one likes rental boots that pinch!), and don’t forget to peek at the weather before you go. You’ve got this! With the right stuff packed, all that’s left is hitting the slopes and making some epic memories. If you think I’ve missed anything, let me know—I’m always up for swapping tips. Have the best time out there!
