Planning a ski trip can be a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time.
Questions you ask yourself before any trip, like which gadgets to travel with, can make packing stressful enough. But knowing your vacation will involve participating in a new activity, such as skiing, can bring a whole new laundry list of questions to mind.
Where should I stay? What should I pack? Should I buy my ski equipment or rent it?
If you find yourself asking these questions, don’t worry because we’re here to help!
In this article, we’ll give you a complete guide to packing for a ski trip so you don’t forget anything important (and possibly ruin your experience).
Now then, let’s get started!
1. Base Layer
Even if you have never been skiing before, chances are you know you’re in for some cold weather. To combat the frigid temperatures, you’re going to be wearing three layers while on the slopes: a base, mid, and outer layer.
While all layers are designed to keep you warm, the base layer is important because it wicks water and sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry (yes, it’s cold, but skiing is quite a workout). This layer normally consists of some form of long underwear: long sleeve shirt and pants made from thermal material to wear under the rest of your gear.
2. Mid Layer
The mid layer provides another layer of insulation to ensure the cold doesn’t stop you from enjoying yourself. This can be a light sweater only, or you may want to add some light sweatpants if it’s a particularly chilly day. While combating the cold and windy weather is important, be sure to keep things lightweight. You don’t want to be so bundled up that you can’t move your arms and legs properly, those are kind of important out on the mountain!
3. Outer Layer
Last but not least is your outer layer, which will also be the thickest. You can choose between a coat and pants, or a coat and bib (basically overalls specifically made for skiing). Outer layers should be waterproof, as they should not only keep in body warmth but should also keep out the wet snow.
4. Accessories and Extras
A few additional pieces of gear you’ll want to bring along are goggles, a helmet, and gloves or mittens. Gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm, goggles to enable you to see when you’re flying down the mountain at top speed, and a helmet, just in case you take a tumble or two. Don’t worry! Even the most seasoned skiers wear helmets.
You’re also going to need some chapstick, all that wind is hard on the lips! And, for added comfort, you should consider hand and boot warmers; your hands become cold faster than the rest of your body, after all.
Consider Rentals
Don’t worry about packing skis, boots, or poles, especially if it’s your first time on the slopes. Rent those items instead, and if you have a great time and think skiing might be your new favorite hobby, you can purchase your own gear at a later date.
If you’re looking for a place to stay on your trip but want something a little homier than a hotel, a Snowmass condo rental is a great way to go. You’re going to need space to store all your new gear, anyway!
Planning a Ski Trip: Now What?
Hopefully, our packing list makes planning a ski trip that much easier, particularly if it’s your first one.
For more travel secrets, be sure to check out our site, where you’ll find tons of tips and tricks to make your next vacation incredible.
Now get ready to hit the slopes!
Leave a Reply