Packing can be a stressful part of your ski holiday, especially if you are making lists and sorting bags and backpacks for the whole family. Staying within your airline’s luggage restrictions will ensure you can avoid any needless charges, but there seems to be an endless list of must-haves for the slopes.
To help you start your ski holiday off on the right foot, we’ve put together a suggested packing list. From the basics through to ski or snowboard kit, layers and extras, it’ll help you make sure that you have all the essentials for your ski holiday. We hope it helps!
Must-pack essentials
Tickets, money, passport. It’s also worth packing a photocopy of your passport, just in case.
Flight / train / coach boarding passes, details and itineraries
Accommodation / lift pass / ski hire details
Insurance details and documents
Key phone numbers and addresses
If you’re driving out to the mountains, don’t forget your driving licence, maps and directions. It’s also worth packing a set of snow-chains.
Ski / snowboard equipment
Ski boots / snowboard boots
Skis / snowboard (in ski / board bag)
Poles
Day rucksack
Helmet
Water bottle
Ski / snowboard clothing and accessories
What you wear on the slopes depends on the time of year you’re holidaying. The winter months of December, January and February, the Alps bring low temperatures, sometimes high winds, and plenty of fresh snow. Wrap up warm to tackle the slopes, and pack a spare neck warmer in your bag to switch half way through your day.
In the spring months of March and April, the Alps offers a mix of fresh snow and bluebird skies – so don’t get caught out! Wear a number of thinner layers so you can regulate your temperature better, and don’t go anywhere without that all-important sun screen.
Warm hat / beanie
Goggles
Neck warmer
Thermal layers
Fleeces
Ski jacket
Waterproof ski trousers / salopettes
Waterproof gloves
Ski / board socks (thick & long socks)
Go Pro & accessories
Comfy slippers / UGG boots (many chalets have a no indoor shoe policy in the chalet)
Comfy trousers / jogging bottoms
Hiking boots for walking round resort
If you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, there are a few other handy bits of kit to pack. Tuning tools like a screwdriver, iron file, plus waxing iron and wax will help you keep your ski or snowboard kit in perfect nick during your trip. Packing a transceiver, shovel and probe is essential if you’re considering heading off-piste.
Sundries
Pyjamas
Non skiing clothing (jeans / jumpers)
Toiletries
Sunscreen (high SPF)
Lip salve / balm (high SPF)
Sunglasses
Blister plasters
Swimming costume / trunks (if applicable)
Mobile phone and charger
Camera and charger
Travel plug adaptor
Books / magazines
Cards / games
Any medication
Handy tips for savvy packing
Cramming all this kit into a ski or board bag and backpack is a daunting challenge, but here are a few tips to ensure it all fits and nothing gets broken.
Roll your socks and underwear up and put them in your ski or snowboard boots. You can also roll your clothes up, to save valuable space in your travel case.
Store your ski goggles and sunglasses inside your helmet, to ensure they don’t get squashed or snapped. Same goes for tech items like your camera or GoPro.
Don’t bother packing loads of smart ‘going out’ clothes – just bring a few basics. You’ll be in your ski or boarding gear for most of the day, so you’ll only need one or two pairs of trousers and tops max.
With your bags packed and your tickets in hand, you’re ready to hit the mountains. Bon voyage!