So you're heading to the slopes! Whether you're a seasoned shredder or someone who thinks "black diamond" is just a fancy cheese, packing for a ski trip can feel overwhelming. Do you really need all those layers? (Spoiler: yes.) Will you actually use those hand warmers? (Also yes.)

Let me walk you through everything you need to pack so you can spend less time worrying about frostbite and more time pretending you know how to parallel ski.

The Clothing Layer Situation (aka The Onion Strategy)

Here's the thing about skiing: you'll be freezing on the chairlift and sweating like you're in a sauna once you start moving. The solution? Layers on layers on layers.

Base Layer (The Foundation of Not Being Miserable)

This is your next-to-skin layer, and cotton is your enemy here. Once cotton gets wet, it stays wet, and you'll feel like a sad, soggy burrito. Instead, pack:

• Thermal long underwear tops and bottoms made of merino wool or synthetic materials
• Moisture-wicking sports bras or undershirts
• Warm socks (wool or synthetic—seriously, no cotton)

Pro tip: Bring at least two sets of base layers if you're skiing multiple days. Your après-ski self will thank you for not having to put on yesterday's sweaty thermals.

Extra pro tip: Never double up on ski socks; this will not keep your feet warmer. Wear one pair of thin to medium-thickness, high-quality Merino wool or technical synthetic ski socks.

Mid Layer (The Cozy Cocoon)

This is where the warmth magic happens:

• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Insulated vest (optional but great for adjusting temperature)
• Another pair of warm socks, because you can never have too many

Outer Layer (The Shield Against Mother Nature's Attitude)

Your ski jacket and pants are non-negotiable:

• Waterproof, insulated ski jacket
• Waterproof ski pants or bibs (bibs are clutch for keeping snow out when you inevitably fall)
• If you don't own these, most resorts have rental options

For more info on layering, check out our full blog post here.

The Gear That Keeps You Functional

Head-to-Toe Essentials:

• Helmet (protect that noggin!)
• Goggles (at least one pair, two if you're fancy and want a backup)
• Warm hat or beanie that fits under your helmet
• Neck gaiter or balaclava (for when it's so cold your face hurts)
• Ski gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer, gloves are better for dexterity—you choose your adventure)
• Sunglasses for non-skiing moments

The Supporting Cast:

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+, because sun + snow reflection = lobster face)
• Lip balm with SPF (chapped lips at altitude are no joke)
• Hand and toe warmers (little packets of joy)
• Ski socks (yes, they're different from regular socks, and yes, it matters)

Non-Skiing Essentials (Because You're Not Actually Skiing 24/7)

Après-Ski Wardrobe:

You'll want to look cute and feel cozy in the lodge (and not smell like a yeti):

• Comfortable, warm casual clothes (jeans, sweaters, hoodies)
• Waterproof boots or shoes for walking around town
• Cozy socks or slippers for the hotel/cabin
• A nice outfit if you're planning any fancy dinners (ski towns love their upscale restaurants)
• Swimsuit (for the hot tub or pool—your sore muscles will demand this)

Tech & Entertainment:

• Phone charger and portable battery pack (cold drains batteries fast)
• Headphones for the drive or flight
• Camera or GoPro if you're into that
• Book or e-reader for cozy evenings

Toiletries & First Aid:

• All your regular toiletries, but add extra moisturizer (mountain air is DRY)
• Medications you normally take
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen is your friend after a day of skiing)
• Band-aids and blister treatment
• Any prescription medications

The Random But Clutch Items:

• Reusable water bottle (hydration at altitude is crucial)
• Snacks (lift tickets are expensive enough without buying $12 granola bars)
• Small backpack or daypack for carrying stuff on the mountain
• Ziploc bags (for wet clothes, snacks, whatever)
• Cash and ID (some places are still cash-only)

What About Skis, Boots, and Poles?

Unless you're a regular skier, I'd recommend renting at the resort. Travelling with your own equipment is a hassle, and rentals are usually pretty solid. Most rental packages include skis, boots, and poles. If you do have your own gear, more power to you—just don't forget the boot bag.

The Packing Wisdom

The Night-Before Checklist: Before you leave, do a mental walkthrough of a day on the slopes. Can you get dressed? Check. Can you ski? Check. Can you survive après-ski and bedtime? Check. If you answered yes to all three, you're probably good.

What You Can Skip:

• Your entire closet (seriously, rewear things)
• Hair dryer if your accommodation has one
• Fancy skincare routine products (simplify for the trip)
• Your worries about looking cool (everyone looks a bit ridiculous in full ski gear)

Final Thoughts

Look, you're probably going to forget something. We all do. The good news is that ski towns have stores, and half the fun is buying an overpriced beanie with a mountain logo on it because you forgot yours at home.

The most important things to pack? A good attitude, an adventurous spirit, and maybe some Tiger Balm for those inevitable sore muscles. Everything else is just details.

Now get out there and have an amazing time! And remember: the best skiers are the ones having the most fun, not the ones who look the coolest (though if you can do both, even better).

Happy skiing! 🎿