Ski Trip Packing List 2027: The Complete Checklist
Your ski trip is booked, and now comes the question: what do you need to pack? Forgetting something in the mountains is annoying and often expensive. Use this complete ski trip packing list to make sure you have everything, from clothing and gear to documents and après-ski essentials.
Ski clothing
- Base layers: thermal tops and leggings that wick away sweat. Avoid cotton, it stays wet and cold.
- Mid layer: a fleece or thin insulated jacket for extra warmth.
- Ski jacket and ski pants: waterproof and breathable.
- Ski socks: one pair per two days, knee-high and made for ski boots.
- Gloves or mittens: waterproof, plus thin liner gloves for very cold days.
- Headband or beanie: for warm ears on the lift and in the village. A ski headband is light and easy to keep in your pocket, a beanie is warmer off the slopes.
- Neck warmer: protects against wind and cold.
Ski gear
- Ski helmet: bring your own or rent one on site.
- Ski goggles: essential for clear vision in sun, snow and flat light. Look for anti-fog, UV400 protection and helmet compatibility. See our ski goggles.
- Sunglasses: for sunny days on the terrace.
- Skis or snowboard and boots: or book rental in advance, which is often cheaper.
- Small backpack: for water, snacks and an extra layer.
Après-ski and evening
- Comfortable warm shoes or snow boots
- Casual clothing for the evenings
- A fun headband or beanie for the après-ski
- Swimwear if your accommodation has a pool or sauna
Care and health
- Sunscreen with a high SPF: the sun is much stronger at altitude, also on cloudy days.
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturiser for cold, dry skin
- Painkillers, plasters and blister plasters
- Your personal medication
Documents
- Passport or ID card
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- Travel insurance with winter sports cover
- Booking confirmations and ski pass details
Handy extras
- Hand warmers for cold lift rides
- Power bank, because cold drains phone batteries quickly
- Insulated phone pouch
- Ski lock
Tips for packing smart
- Layer up: several thin layers keep you warmer than one thick one, and you can adjust during the day.
- Pack your ski clothes in your hand luggage when flying, so you can still hit the slopes if your suitcase arrives late.
- Check the weather at your destination a few days before departure.
Frequently asked questions
What do I wear for my first ski trip?
Thermal base layers, a fleece, a waterproof ski jacket and ski pants, ski socks, gloves, ski goggles, a helmet and a headband or beanie. Rent skis and boots locally.
Do I need ski goggles or are sunglasses enough?
Ski goggles are recommended. They protect against wind, snow and UV, stay in place during falls, and give better vision in snowfall and flat light.
Ready to complete your list? Discover our ski headbands, beanies and ski goggles.