The Ski Trip Packing List You’ll Thank Yourself For Later

IG: katerhnapap

— From Someone Who’s Learned that the Hard Way

Packing for a ski trip is a different beast. You’re not just thinking about outfits – you’re thinking about staying warm, staying dry, and still looking like you didn’t just roll out of a snowdrift.

I’ve been on trips where I forgot my base layers (rookie mistake) and others where I overpacked so much that I ended up paying more in baggage fees than the ski pass. Somewhere in between, I figured out the sweet spot: a bag that has everything you need, without making you feel like you’re moving house.

Here’s the ultimate ski trip packing list you wish you had earlier.

Layers Are Everything

Here’s the golden rule: it’s easier to shed a layer than it is to magically grow one when you’re freezing.

For me, it’s three parts:

• Base layer: Thermal leggings and tops (merino wool is worth it – it keeps you warm without overheating).
• Mid layer: A fleece or light insulated jacket you can wear on and off the slopes.
• Outer layer: Waterproof, windproof ski jacket and pants.

If you’re someone who gets cold easily, throw in an extra mid layer. Your future self on a windy chairlift will thank you.

The Right Accessories Make or Break Your Day

These are non-negotiables:

• Warm, waterproof gloves or mittens.
• A snug beanie or helmet liner for under your helmet.
• A neck warmer or balaclava (scarves are cute but get annoying in the wind).
• Ski goggles that fit your face – no, sunglasses don’t cut it when it’s snowing sideways.

And bring hand warmers. Even if you don’t think you’ll need them, someone in your group definitely will.

Après-Ski Outfits That Don’t Feel Like an Afterthought

This is where you can have fun. After a day in ski gear, it feels amazing to put on something cozy but stylish. I pack:

• One pair of jeans or corduroys.
• A chunky knit sweater.
• A simple long-sleeve tee or turtleneck for layering.
• Cute winter boots that can handle a bit of slush.

Bonus: If your lodge has a hot tub, throw in a swimsuit – nothing feels better than soaking under the stars when it’s snowing.

Footwear: Practical First, Stylish Second

You really only need two pairs:

• Ski boots (which you’ll likely rent or bring in a separate boot bag).
• Warm snow boots for walking around the resort.

Trust me, trying to navigate icy streets in anything else is a recipe for slipping in front of a line of après-ski spectators.

Beauty & Skincare in the Cold

The mountain air is beautiful… and absolutely brutal on skin. I always pack:

• Heavy-duty moisturizer.
• Lip balm with SPF (your lips can burn up there).
• Sunscreen – yes, even when it’s cloudy, because snow reflects UV rays.
• A tinted SPF if you want a bit of color without doing a full face of makeup.

Dry shampoo is also your friend – ski helmets aren’t exactly great for volume.

Things People Always Forget

I’ve lost count of how many friends have arrived on a ski trip without these:

• Extra socks (and make them wool).
• A small backpack for snacks, water, and sunscreen on the slopes.
• Travel insurance that covers winter sports (seriously – check this).
• A reusable water bottle.

My No-Overpacking Trick for Ski Trips

Lay out your clothes by “ski” and “après-ski.” If an item doesn’t fit into either category, it probably doesn’t need to come. Ski trips are not the time for “just in case” dresses – unless you’re planning a very specific Instagram moment.

My Go-To Formula for a 5-Day Ski Trip

• 2–3 base layers (tops & bottoms)
• 2 mid layers
• 1 ski jacket + 1 ski pant
• 1 pair après-ski jeans or trousers
• 2 sweaters (one chunky, one lighter)
• 1–2 casual tops
• 2 pairs of snow boots (one for slopes, one for evenings)
• Accessories: gloves, beanie, neck warmer, goggles
• Beauty & skincare essentials for cold weather

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