As your ski trip approaches and your departure date gets closer, its time to start packing. Whether you’re going for a weekend, a week, or a half-term break, planning what to pack is crucial.
Since ski gear tends to be bulky and heavy, you’ll want to avoid exceeding the typical luggage limit of 15-20 kg. To keep your bag under the weight limit, its important to only pack what you truly need.
First, check with your airline to confirm their baggage limits. Most airlines allow 15-20 kg, so be sure to pack carefully to avoid extra charges for overweight luggage.
To help you stay organized, we’ve put together some tips to make packing for your ski holiday easier and more efficient. And, we’ve included a handy checklist so you can make sure youve got everything ready before you head to the airport.
What to Pack for your Ski Holiday
Socks & Underwear
First things first don’t forget the essentials! Pack enough underwear for each day, plus a couple of extras. When you’re comfortable and clean, you’ll feel so much better, especially after a long day on the slopes.
For socks, make sure to have enough to protect your feet inside your ski boots. Whether you prefer regular socks or specialized ski socks, aim for a pair per day if youre skiing. If you plan to rent gear, who knows how many feet have been in those boots before yours! If you find ski socks too bulky, pack fewer and wash a pair out in the sink. A travel wash is super handy for packing light. If you’re staying in a chalet, there may be a washing machine, but its always smart to be prepared. Plus, you might end up helping out a fellow traveler whos not as organized!
Also, remember to pack socks or tights for when you’re not skiing.
Ski Base Layers
Next up, ski base layers. Its a good idea to pack at least two sets since they tend to get sweaty after a day or two. Youll need a long-sleeve top and long johns (thermal pants) to keep warm. Man-made fibers will keep you drier but may smell faster, while wool-based layers dont smell as much but arent as quick-drying. For a weekend, one pair should be enough, but for a week-long trip, three sets will do the trick.
Gear
If youre an experienced skier, you probably know what to pack, but for beginners, heres the basic gear list:
- Thermal layers (fleece or wool) to keep you cozy
- Waterproof, breathable ski pants
- Ski gloves
- Goggles
- Sunglasses for sunny days
- Ski helmet
- Ski boots (unless you plan to rent them)
- Any required protective gear, like knee braces
- Avalanche safety gear (if skiing off-piste)
- Ski jacket (you can wear this on the plane to save luggage space)
- Walking boots for travel
Sunscreen & Lip Balm
This ones a must dont forget sunscreen and lip balm. The sun on the slopes is much stronger than you might think, even in winter. The snow reflects the sun, and the mountain air is thinner, so it’s easy to get sunburned. Protect your skin, and youll look and feel much better. Lip balm is just as important it will keep your lips smooth and ready for apr