Ski Trip Packing List: What to Pack for a Week of Skiing

On By saar.decosterIn Europe

Packing for a ski trip is honestly a little different from packing for a normal holiday.

You need clothes for skiing, clothes for après-ski, warm layers, shoes that can actually handle snow, your normal toiletries and then somehow you also need to fit everything into your suitcase without bringing your entire wardrobe.

After quite a few ski trips myself, I’ve figured out what I actually use and what tends to stay at the bottom of my suitcase the entire week.

So if you’re going skiing for a week and you’re wondering what to pack for a ski trip, this is my personal ski trip packing list with everything I would bring.

And yes, some things might seem obvious, but forgetting your ski socks or lip balm with SPF can suddenly make a day on the mountain a lot less enjoyable.

Planning your first ski trip? Before you start packing, check out my guide to everything you need to know before your first ski trip.

Gondola ski lift in St Anton am Arlberg taking skiers up the Austrian Alps

Ski Trip Packing List: The Essentials

Before getting into the actual ski clothing, there are a few basic things I would make sure you don’t forget.

You’ll obviously need your passport or ID card, wallet, bank card and travel documents, especially if you’re travelling internationally. I also recommend keeping your travel insurance details somewhere easily accessible, just in case.

For your electronics, bring your phone charger, power bank and any other chargers you need. A power bank is especially useful when you’re spending a full day on the mountain and your phone battery disappears surprisingly quickly in the cold.

If you’re driving to the mountains, I also have one very important addition to your packing list: a little pillow and blanket for the car. If you’re travelling for several hours, this makes the journey so much more comfortable.

What to Pack for Skiing

Obviously, the most important part of your ski packing list is what you’re actually going to wear on the slopes.

Ski Jacket

A proper ski jacket is one of the things I would definitely invest in if you’re planning to ski regularly. It should keep you warm and protect you from wind and snow, while still allowing you to move comfortably.

If you’re only skiing once and don’t want to buy one yet, you can also look into renting ski clothing depending on the destination.

Ski Pants or Ski Suit

You’ll also need ski pants or a ski suit. Personally, I prefer ski pants because I find them easier to combine with different layers, but a ski suit can be really cute and warm too.

The most important thing is that they are waterproof and warm enough for the conditions you’ll be skiing in.

Helmet

Always wear a ski helmet.

If you don’t own one, you can usually rent one together with your skis or snowboard. I personally think this is one piece of equipment where safety should come before saving a few euros.

Ski Goggles

A good pair of ski goggles is another essential. They protect your eyes from snow, wind and bright sunlight and make it much easier to see when the weather changes.

I would definitely bring these rather than relying only on sunglasses.

Ski Gloves

You need proper ski gloves or mittens. Normal gloves are not going to do the same job when you’re sitting on a chairlift in freezing temperatures.

If your hands get cold easily, waterproof insulated gloves are absolutely worth it.

Ski Socks

And PLEASE don’t forget your ski socks.

This might genuinely be one of the most important things on this entire list.

Ski socks are longer and designed specifically to work with ski boots, helping keep your feet warm and reducing the chance of uncomfortable pressure points.

I usually bring several pairs so I have a fresh pair for every couple of days.

Skiing on the slopes of St Anton am Arlberg in Austria during a winter trip

What to Wear Under Your Ski Clothes

Layering is probably the most important part of staying comfortable while skiing.

I get cold quite quickly, so I personally tend to wear quite a few layers. You might find that you need much less, especially if you’re skiing later in the season or the weather is warmer.

My usual combination starts with thermal underwear, including a long-sleeved thermal top and thermal leggings underneath my ski pants.

On top of that, I usually wear a relatively thin jumper or fleece with a collar, followed by a thicker jumper and then my ski jacket.

Yes, I realise that sounds like a LOT of layers.

But I get cold easily, okay?

The amount you need will obviously depend on the temperature, weather and how active you are while skiing. You don’t want to be freezing, but you also don’t want to spend the entire day sweating underneath five layers.

The good thing about layering is that you can always take something off.

Don’t Forget a Buff

A buff or neck warmer is another small thing that makes a surprisingly big difference.

When you’re skiing, cold wind hitting your neck and face can get really uncomfortable, especially on the chairlift.

A buff can be worn around your neck or pulled up over part of your face when it’s particularly cold or windy.

It’s tiny, so there is really no reason not to pack one.

Ski Equipment: Do You Need to Bring Your Own?

If you’re a beginner, don’t panic when you see how much equipment is involved.

You absolutely do not need to own everything.

If you don’t have your own skis or snowboard, you can rent them at most ski destinations. You can usually rent the skis or snowboard, ski boots and poles, and often a helmet as well.

So if you’re going on your first ski holiday, I would not immediately spend hundreds or thousands of euros buying equipment.

Try skiing first and see how much you actually enjoy it.

If you do already own your own equipment, obviously make sure you bring your skis or snowboard and poles.

And don’t forget to check how you’re transporting them if you’re driving.

Toiletries to Pack for a Ski Trip

Your normal toiletries still need to come with you, but there are a few things that are particularly important on a ski holiday.

I always bring my usual shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, skincare and makeup.

Don’t forget your hairbrush or comb and plenty of hair ties.

Hair ties are particularly useful if you like skiing with your hair in braids. I personally love wearing braids under my helmet because they keep my hair out of my face and make it easier to deal with after a full day on the slopes.

I also always bring a headband because it helps keep my braids looking decent throughout the day.

If you’re staying somewhere with a wellness area, swimming pool or sauna, remember to pack your swimsuit too. It would be very annoying to arrive at the spa and realise you forgot it.

Wellness and spa at a hotel in Saas-Fee after skiing

Sunscreen Is Still Essential in Winter

One of the biggest mistakes people make when packing for a ski holiday is forgetting that you can still get badly sunburned in winter.

You should absolutely pack sunscreen, ideally a high SPF that you can apply to your face before heading onto the slopes.

The combination of strong mountain sun and reflection from the snow can be surprisingly intense.

I would also bring a lip balm with SPF. Your lips are exposed to cold, wind and sun all day, so they can get incredibly dry.

This is one of those tiny things you will be very happy to have.

Sunglasses

Even if you’re wearing ski goggles on the slopes, I would still pack sunglasses.

You’ll probably take your goggles off when you’re sitting outside for lunch, walking around the village or enjoying après-ski during the afternoon.

And honestly, sunglasses are also just useful for those beautiful sunny mountain days.

What to Wear Off the Slopes

You don’t need a completely separate wardrobe for a ski holiday.

For normal days around the village, I usually bring a few warm trousers, jumpers and basic tops that I can mix and match.

You’ll definitely want:

  • Warm trousers
  • Jumpers
  • Normal tops
  • Underwear
  • Normal socks
  • A warm scarf
  • A beanie
  • Normal gloves
  • Warm boots
  • Comfortable shoes or sneakers

For your shoes, I would strongly recommend bringing boots that can handle snow and wet conditions. Walking around a ski village in normal sneakers when there is snow everywhere is not exactly ideal.

If you’re planning to go out for après-ski or nightlife, you might also want to bring a pair of normal sneakers or nicer shoes.

What to Wear for Après-Ski

This obviously depends on where you’re going.

Some ski resorts have very casual après-ski where you’re basically still wearing your ski clothes and boots. Others turn into a full party later in the afternoon.

If you’re planning on going out, I’d definitely pack at least one cute top, blouse or going-out outfit.

You don’t need to bring a different outfit for every night. One or two pieces that you can combine with the clothes you’re already bringing are more than enough.

And don’t forget a sports bra if you’re more comfortable wearing one while skiing or doing other activities.

Sleeping Essentials

After a full day of skiing and possibly a few après-ski drinks, you are probably going to want to sleep very well.

Unfortunately, ski resorts aren’t always the quietest places.

That’s why I always recommend bringing earplugs and a sleeping mask.

The earplugs are especially useful if you’re staying in a hostel or sharing a room, while a sleeping mask is great if you’re sharing a room with someone who likes waking up before you.

Both take up almost no space, so I would definitely pack them.

What to Bring in Your Ski Backpack

You don’t want to carry a huge backpack up the mountain, but there are a few things I like having with me.

A small daypack can be really useful for carrying your essentials.

I would put in:

  • Water bottle
  • Snacks or lunch
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Sunscreen
  • Power bank
  • Phone
  • Small wallet
  • Buff
  • Tissues
  • Mini first-aid or medication kit

And now for my slightly controversial money-saving tip…

Bring Your Own Lunch and Drinks

Ski resort food and drinks can be ridiculously expensive.

If you’re travelling on a budget, bringing your own lunch can save you a surprising amount of money over the course of a week.

I like bringing a lunch box with something easy to eat during the day, along with a water bottle.

And then I usually bring a second bottle for…

Well.

Let’s just say it can be filled with something other than water.

A bottle of wine is significantly cheaper when you don’t buy every single drink at the ski resort.

Obviously, check the rules of your accommodation and the ski area before bringing alcohol around, but for evenings at your accommodation, bringing some drinks from the supermarket can definitely help keep your budget under control.

If you’re interested in keeping the entire trip affordable, my guide on How to Ski on a Budget is also worth checking out.

Mini Medication Kit

I always like having a small medication or first-aid kit with me.

You don’t need to bring an entire pharmacy, but having a few basics can be useful when you’re away from home.

Think about the things you personally tend to need, such as painkillers, plasters or any regular medication.

Blisters can also happen when you’re wearing ski boots all day, so a few blister plasters are definitely worth packing.

Other Small Things You Might Forget

There are a few smaller things that aren’t necessarily essential but can make your trip easier.

A waterproof phone case or small waterproof pouch can be useful if you’re worried about your phone getting wet in the snow.

You could also bring hand warmers or toe warmers if you get cold easily. They’re especially nice on particularly freezing days.

And if you’re driving, make sure you have everything you need for the journey itself, including snacks, water, chargers and your pillow and blanket.

My Complete Ski Trip Packing List

If you want to use this as a quick checklist while packing, here’s everything in one place.

Ski Equipment

  • Ski jacket
  • Ski pants or ski suit
  • Ski helmet
  • Ski goggles
  • Ski gloves or mittens
  • Ski socks
  • Skis + poles OR snowboard
  • Ski boots
  • Thermal underwear
  • Long-sleeved thermal tops
  • Thermal leggings
  • Fleece or thin jumper
  • Thicker jumper
  • Buff / neck warmer

Clothes

  • Warm trousers
  • Jumpers
  • Normal tops
  • Underwear
  • Normal socks
  • Warm scarf
  • Beanie
  • Normal gloves
  • Snow/winter boots
  • Sneakers
  • Sports bra
  • Après-ski outfit / cute top

Toiletries

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Hairbrush/comb
  • Hair ties
  • Headband
  • Makeup
  • Skincare
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Any personal medication
  • Blister plasters

Other Essentials

  • ID/passport
  • Wallet
  • Bank card
  • Travel insurance details
  • Phone
  • Phone charger
  • Power bank
  • Earplugs
  • Sleeping mask
  • Swimsuit
  • Small backpack
  • Water bottle
  • Lunch box
  • Snacks
  • Mini medication kit
  • Tissues
  • Optional hand/foot warmers

If You’re Driving

  • Travel pillow
  • Blanket
  • Snacks
  • Water
  • Chargers
  • Everything you need for a comfortable journey

What You Don’t Need to Buy

If this is your first ski holiday, don’t feel like you need to buy everything on this list.

You can easily rent skis, poles, ski boots and often a helmet at your destination.

In fact, if you’re completely new to skiing, I would recommend renting before investing in expensive equipment. Once you know that skiing is something you actually enjoy, you can slowly start building your own collection.

The things I would prioritise buying first are probably the things that sit directly against your body: good thermal layers, ski socks and comfortable gloves.

Those can make a huge difference to how comfortable you are during a full day on the mountain.

Final Thoughts

Packing for a ski trip can seem like a lot at first because you’re dealing with much bulkier clothes than you would normally take on holiday.

But you really don’t need to bring your entire winter wardrobe.

The most important thing is having good layers, proper ski clothing, warm socks, gloves, sunscreen and comfortable footwear. Everything else can be adapted depending on where you’re going, how cold you get and what you want to do after skiing.

Personally, I would rather bring a few useful layers that I can combine in different ways than pack loads of separate outfits.

And don’t forget that a ski holiday isn’t only about skiing. You’re probably going to spend time in the village, go for après-ski, eat out, maybe visit a wellness centre and hopefully enjoy a few long evenings with friends.

So pack for the whole experience, not just the slopes.

Not sure when to go? I also break down the pros and cons of skiing in December, January, February, March and April in my guide to the best time to go skiing in Europe.

And most importantly: don’t forget your ski socks.

Seriously.

Planning Your Next Ski Trip?

Planning a ski trip in Europe can feel overwhelming, especially with so many countries, resorts and different types of ski holidays to choose from.

That’s why I’ve created my Europe Travel Guide, where I share travel inspiration, destination guides, itineraries and practical tips to help you plan your trip around Europe.

→ START HERE: Europe Travel Guide

Explore Skiing in Europe

Looking for more ski inspiration? Explore my guides to some of Europe’s best ski destinations, from the legendary resorts of Austria to the spectacular Alps of Switzerland.

Whether you’re planning your first ski trip, looking for the perfect resort or trying to ski Europe on a budget, you’ll find more guides and tips below.

More Skiing Guides

Planning your ski trip? These guides will help you prepare, save money and make the most of your time on the slopes.

FAQ

What should I pack for a one-week ski trip?
For a week of skiing, pack ski clothing, thermal layers, ski socks, gloves, a helmet, ski goggles, warm everyday clothes, winter boots, toiletries, sunscreen, sunglasses and a few essentials for après-ski. You can rent skis, boots and poles at most ski resorts.

How many ski outfits do I need for a week?
You don’t need a different ski outfit for every day. Bring enough thermal layers and ski socks to change regularly, while your ski jacket and ski pants can usually be worn throughout the week.

What should I wear under my ski clothes?
Start with thermal underwear, such as a long-sleeved thermal top and thermal leggings. You can then add a fleece or jumper and another warmer layer depending on the temperature. Layering allows you to adjust your clothes throughout the day.

What are the most commonly forgotten items for a ski trip?
Some easy-to-forget essentials include ski socks, lip balm with SPF, sunscreen, sunglasses, a buff, swimsuit for the wellness area, chargers, power bank, earplugs and comfortable snow boots. If you’re driving, a pillow and blanket can also make the journey much more comfortable.

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