This February will be our fifth time skiing as a family, and our fourth time skiing with friends in Big Sky, Montana. While it has taken me a long time, and a lot of ski lessons, I’m finally feeling more confident on the slopes. Another aspect of a ski vacation that was originally intimidating was packing. But, I think I’ve finally gotten the hang of it! Today I’m excited to share my comprehensive ski trip packing list. I’ve included everything you need including packing tips, lists for both on and off the slopes, and where to shop for kids’ ski gear. I hope this post is helpful if you’re preparing for an upcoming mountain getaway!
OUR SKI TRIP EXPERIENCES
After this first ski adventure, we started going on family ski trips to Big Sky, Montana. One of the many reasons why I love Big Sky is that it’s very casual. It’s such a fun, low key spot, which makes it perfect for families.
POST-SKI STYLE
Tips for Packing for a Ski Vacation
Packing for a vacation on the slopes is intimidating! At least, in my opinion it is. This is mainly because if you forget something, it’s usually so much more expensive to replace it while on the mountain. But, after multiple getaways over the past few years, I think I’ve finally got a good grip on what to pack for a ski trip. Let’s kick it off with some tips that have made a big difference in helping me to prepare and pack efficiently.
General Ski Trip Tips
There are a few general tips I want to mention before diving into our ski trip packing list. Especially with the change in altitude, there are a few things that I do differently on a mountain vacation versus a beach vacation.
- Hydrate, even more than you do at home. This is important for everyone, especially kids, who might be too excited or distracted to drink as often as they normally do. I always pack Liquid IV or Rebellious Kids for our boys to drink on the first couple of days, until they get used to the change in altitude.
- Similarly, go easy on any booze. I don’t drink the first couple of days because it takes my body a few days to acclimate to the environment. And even when I do, I typically stick to one drink a night. My heart rate is elevated in higher altitude, and any alcohol increases it too. So, it’s just a tough combo for me to recover from. And most of the time, it’s not worth it.
- Make sure to book everyone’s ski lessons (or ski school for your kids) and lift tickets way ahead of time. They do sell out!
- If it’s your child’s first time skiing, add a few relevant books to your ski trip packing list, or watch some YouTube ski videos together. This can help get them excited!
Ski Trip Packing Tips
In order to make the most of my ski trip packing list, there are a few tips worth mentioning. Packing for a mountain vacation is different from packing for a tropical island. Here are some tips I’ve noted over the years!
- Bring Tote-a-Ton bags. Ski gear is bulky, but mostly soft. For this reason, we especially like to use our Tote-a-Ton bags for ski vacations. No doubt you’ve heard me rave about these as a travel favorite more than once!
- Pack one hard suitcase for toiletries and electronics.
- Stick with a color palette. As I did on my Europe packing list, and for most other trips, I like to stick with a specific color palette. I think this is especially helpful for skiing, when you’re already toting around lots of big items. Classic staples that pair well together will allow for lots of easy outfit combinations.
- Use packing cubes. I don’t use these for the bulky ski items. But I do organize the smaller items like underwear, pajamas, sweaters, and jeans with packing cubes. We do a different color and/or design for everyone in our family, which makes it easier to unpack.
- Try your outfits on before packing and snap pictures. Mornings during these trips always feel like that one chaotic scene from Home Alone…but instead of heading to the airport, we’re just trying to get to ski school! Having photos of my styled outfits makes the mornings go a little smoother.
- Don’t forget to add a first aid kit to your ski trip packing list!
The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List
Okay, now that I’ve covered some tips about preparing for a mountain vacation, it’s time to chat about what to pack for a ski trip. Let me just warn you, there’s sort of a lot! But, I’m going to break it down into categories to hopefully make it easier and less overwhelming.
For all categories, I’m including all of my tried and true favorites. There are certainly some investment pieces, for which I fully believe that classic is the best choice. Trends come and go, but if you invest in classic pieces, they’ll look stylish year to year. Just something to keep in mind!
Ski Trip Packing List: On the Slopes
First up, these are the main items that are on my ski trip packing list for a day on the slopes. Not only is there a lot of gear to think about, but also a lot of layers! I’ll do just about anything to stay warm and comfortable. So trust me when I say that these ski pieces are ones that I did a lot of research and asking friends about before hitting purchase. I wanted to make sure they would be worth the investment and that I wouldn’t be cold and miserable while doing runs down the mountain!
1. A Ski Jacket and Pants, Bib, or Catsuit
Whichever of these you choose to pack, make sure they are waterproof and insulated. I like a more tailored silhouette, so I opt for fitted styles or ones with belts, and I stay away from more boxy cuts. I pack a jumpsuit with a coordinating jacket to throw on if I’m cold, and also a ski jacket and pants outfit. I switch these out, according to the weather.
Some of my favorite places to look for ski clothing for women are Half Days, Cordova, Perfect Moment, Helly Hansen, Free People, and Obermeyer, to name a few. Secondhand shopping is always a wonderful option as well. You can often find quality pieces that haven’t been worn a ton. The Real Real has a lot of great ski clothing.
2. Moisture wicking base layers
Our ski trip packing list typically includes three to four sets of base layers per person. I wash these when possible, so we can rewear them during our trips. These layers are the first thing you’ll put on after your underwear and bra.
My favorite places to shop base layers are Alo Yoga, Sweaty Betty, Smart Wool, Helly Hansen, and LL Bean. I’ve also come across many good options at Amazon. However, the nicer quality ones are more likely to last year after year.
3. A Mid Layer
A mid layer is typically a cozy sweater or a fleece pullover, to be worn over your base layer. For me, this layer is usually a Dudley Stephens Park Slope fleece or a cashmere turtleneck.
4. Ski Socks
When wondering what to pack for a ski trip, keep in mind that the right socks can make a big difference. We like to wear Smartwool and Bombas socks, but there are plenty of less expensive options on Amazon as well. Just make sure they go up to your calves!
5. Balaclava
A Balaclava is a must for any ski trip packing list! This piece covers your ears and mouth, preventing your face from freezing. I like the brand Turtle Fur, which you can buy on Amazon. Similar to base layers, you are not going to want to rewear this daily. So plan to pack a couple, unless you’re washing clothes every night.
6. Mittens or Gloves
After purchasing a string of cheap gloves and mittens, our family members all now have a Hestra pair. And we love them! I actually prefer mittens over gloves – I think they keep your hands a bit warmer.
7. Ski Goggles
Make sure that the goggles on your ski trip packing list have UV protection and polarized lenses. Personally, I’m sensitive to the sun, so I need the lenses for the super bright days. I have these Shady Rays snow goggles, and I love that you can interchange the lenses!
8. Powder Puff Collection Pullover
If you’re not familiar with Powder Puff Collection, they make these wonderful puff pullover pieces, which are similar to scarves. I really love these, and consider them a must! The puff pullovers give me the added warmth and protection that I need while on the slopes.
9. Boots
Sorels are my snow boot of choice. I wear these out to dinner as well, making them a very versatile item on the ski trip packing list.
10. Ski Helmet
I have a Smith snow helmet that I really like. But, any helmet with MIPS is good! I would recommend going to an REI and trying helmets on before your trip. Even here in Florida, we have a pretty decent selection at REI. You can also rent a helmet, although, I prefer to have my own. Either way, a helmet is a MUST.
11. Rechargeable Hand Warmers
No matter how warmly you dress, you’re bound to get chilly from time to time. I love to put these rechargeable hand warmers in my pockets for an added boost of warmth, as needed.
12. Skis, Ski Boots, and Ski Poles
While these are obviously necessary, they technically aren’t on my ski trip packing list because we rent them. We use Ski Butlers, and they come right to your house and fit you for your ski gear. We’ve had wonderful experiences with them!
13. Everyday Essentials
Before heading out on the slopes each day, be sure to carry along your everyday essentials. I bring my ski resort card, credit card, phone, and lip stick inside of my ski jacket. I love using this Lanolips balm when I’m skiing – it’s so hydrating! I also always carry a protein bar for a quick snack.
Ski Trip Packing List: Off the SLopes
While most of the uncertainty behind figuring out what to pack for a ski trip comes from the special gear you wear while skiing, I also thought it might be helpful to share what I bring for our down time during these trips. As I previously mentioned, we like to hang out in our vacation home, as well as go out to dinner. These are the main items that I pack for visiting and relaxing.
1. Sweaters
My ski trip packing list includes sweaters, a lot of sweaters. One of these layered under a puffer coat is usually what I’m wearing if we go out to eat, so I like to have a variety to choose from.
2. Turtlenecks
Similarly, I also pack a few turtlenecks. The Arlettes from J.McLaughlin are my go-to’s.
3. Jeans
I like to pack a couple pairs of jeans for when we go out. This classic pair is always a favorite.
4. Hats
I have an old J.McLaughlin hat that I love and always bring along. It’s similar to this faux fur hat.
5. Loungewear
This is one category you definitely don’t want to forget for your ski trip packing list. There’s something so cozy and special about wearing comfy loungewear in the mountains. I have an old cashmere jumpsuit that I love to pack, and this similar one looks great as well. I also bring my Ugg slides for inside the house.
6. Pajamas
Speaking of cozy, make sure to pack your favorite pajamas! I like to wear the long/long dream knit sets from LAKE in this kind of weather. I also got our crew these matching ski pajamas from Lila and Hayes. I love their pajamas!
7. Bras & Underwear
Last, but certainly not least, don’t forget to bring your undies! These seamless high cut briefs from Target are my favorite, and you all always go crazy for them when I share them on Instagram as well!
Ski Trip Packing List: For the Kids
Most of the items on a kids’ ski trip packing list will be the same as the adults. However, I did want to share a few favorite brands and tips to help make your shopping and packing a bit easier.
Kids Ski Clothing
Some of my favorite places to shop for kids’ ski clothing are Boden, Northern Classics, Helly Hansen, Spyder, Obermeyer, and Saint Bernard. It’s also a great idea to shop for secondhand pieces, especially if you’re only skiing once a year like we are. Kids grow out of gear so quickly. Shop Bagsy and The Real Real are two secondhand favorites. You can search these sites for some of the well-known brands listed above, as these are all hand-me-down worthy.
Tip for Kids Ski Gear
Whether you purchase online or you make a trip to a ski shop, I highly recommend having your kids try everything on before your trip. When you do this, be sure to allow yourself enough time to return and exchange the items, if necessary.
There are a few reasons why I recommend this. For one, these clothes are different from your kids’ standard attire, so it’s nice for them to get a feel for the pieces beforehand. This is especially important if they are sensitive to certain fabrics. Secondly, it’s A LOT of work for little kids to get in and out of all of these clothes. You don’t want to find out that pieces don’t fit well while they’re rushing out the door for ski school.
Ski Trip Packing List: Skincare Favorites
In addition to the travel essentials and toiletries that I pack for every trip, I bring a few extras for a ski vacation. This is mainly due to the change in weather and atmosphere.
1. Moisturizers
I go heavy on the hydration when we go out west. Oil cleanser, a soothing moisturizer, Vitamin C E Ferulic for my face, and Splash Salve for my body in shower – These are some of my favorites!
2. Beauty Masks
For the ultimate lazy girl skincare, I pack this or this mask to use every morning while I also wear my eye masks. Lastly, this overnight lip mask is an absolute must!
3. Sunscreen
Sunscreen might not be the first thing that comes to mind for your ski trip packing list, but it is very important. Every morning after your skincare routine, make sure to apply sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to bring a little canister of it out on the slopes. I like to fill up a cadence capsule with some unseen sunscreen to go.
What To Pack for a Ski Trip
I know how overwhelming it can be to put together a ski trip packing list. My hope is that these tips and lists can help guide you and make your preparation a little bit easier. If you’re looking for additional travel tips and recommended destinations, check out the links below. And most importantly, have fun on the slopes!
The Ultimate Europe Packing List
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