The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List + What to Wear for your First Skiing Vacation

If you’re going on your first skiing trip, you’re probably wondering what to pack and what to wear. There are so many options, it can be hard to know where to start!

I’m sure I’m not the only one googling multiple versions of “how to look cute and be warm ski trip packing list what to wear”.

AmIRight?

After polling multiple long-time skiing friends, here’s what’s on our ski trip packing list (and what we were able to easily order from Amazon, too! (:

While you do need to be prepared for cold temperatures (especially if you’re like us and hailing from a warm-weather state like Florida), there are just a few basics to get it right so you can have the most fun. We’ve put together this ultimate skiing packing list + tips for your first time skiing to help you with what to pack and what to wear for your next vacation on the slopes.

What to wear on the plane

You’ll want layers for flying—especially if you’re taking a red-eye or a winter flight. While you’re already going to be packing a lot of winter gear, you could use some of the lighter layers on the flight.

How should you dress when you get to your skiing destination?

Pack something cute AND most-importantly comfy for arrival and apres ski! Since there is so much cold-weather gear going into your ski trip packing list, it’s best to pack light for the rest of the time.

Jeans or leggings that can tuck into your winter boots, a couple of long-sleeve tees or sweaters, and then a cute accessory makes for a great outfit while grabbing a drink to warm up after skiing or dinner on the mountain.

How should you dress while skiing or snowboarding?

While you’re shredding it up on the slopes (or like us and starting out with your first family lesson!), be sure to dress warmly and comfortably. Layering is always a smart choice because it allows you to remove clothing as you heat up. Gloves are also a must—never ride (or ski!) without them! Waterproof snow gloves will keep your hands warm and avoid chafing against your poles.

The Baselayer

Wearing a base layer is essential if you’re going to be spending time outdoors, especially in winter or on a cold day. If you’re going skiing (or even just spending time outside), make sure you invest in a pair of thermals that are cute enough that they can stand on their own—it doesn’t hurt if they also keep you super warm, too.

Middle Layer

Pack versatile clothing for layered outfits. Layers are key when you’re traveling because they allow you to react quickly to unpredictable weather conditions.

When skiing, you most definitely need the middle layer. Usually, this consists of a jacket, including waterproof, fleece, sweater, or sweatshirt. I personally love fleeces because they are easy to layer under a ski jacket to keep warm! Then you can easily remove the ski jacket for those apres-ski drinks and still stay cute and comfortable throughout a day on the slopes.

Outerwear

Outerwear is super important to ski trip comfort.

This is where you’ll want to invest in an insulated, waterproof ski jacket. Layers are still helpful here if you already have a good warm coat, but at least waterproof is highly recommended because you’ll be out in the snow, and this is the first layer of defense! Once clothing gets wet, it’s hard to stay warm.

Ski pants or snow bibs. You can usually find reasonably priced snow bibs (basically overalls for the snow), or you can never go wrong with a nice pair of snowboarding pants.

If you know you’ll be arriving at some drastically cold temps, try throwing on a pair of insulated snowboarding leggings as well!

Ski Gear Accessories

The last thing you want is wind-burned cheeks. So don’t forget the rest of your cold-weather gear.

Neck warmers, balaclavas, or gaiters are all good choices (something to protect the neck and face), wool ski socks, and snow gloves or mittens. Mittens will keep hands warmer, and can still hold ski poles easily – but if you already have winter, waterproof gloves, you’ll be all set!

You’ll need some sort of bag to keep all your gear in, so look for a backpack with a large capacity. If you’re carrying heavy equipment or bringing your own gear, you may want one with wheels on it too.

Skis, Poles, Goggles, and Boots… Oh My!

Thankfully the MAIN essential ski gear, from skis to helmets to goggles is typically able to be rented.

For our first family-friendly ski trip, Chris and I are taking Aliyah and Brayden to Bolton Valley, VT and we cannot wait. Now, if we lived near winter skiing, or it was something we did multiple times a year, then it would be time to invest in this kind of equipment.

No matter which way you slice it, skiing isn’t an inexpensive sport!

But, since we live amongst popular beaches and beach weather, we’re going to stick to purchasing swimsuits – and we’ll rent the ski equipment!

With that said, there are a few skiing safety essentials:

• Skis, poles and/or snowboard: again, I’m thankful to be renting!
• Helmet: this gear is absolutely essential while skiing, and if you plan on snowboarding too, make sure it can be used interchangeably between sports. It should cover most of your head and fit snugly enough that if you fell, it would stay on. Also, look into a system where there are ear flaps; these will save your ears from getting frostbite when it’s really cold outside.
• Ski Goggles: don’t forget these! They’ll keep wind and snow out of your eyes so you can concentrate on what’s going on in front of you – not what’s happening behind or beside you! One pair with UV protection is fine; especially because they’re not cheap. Make sure they fit securely around your face.
• Boots: I’ve heard that the best fit for ski boots it to have enough room for your toes to wiggle (thus NOT cutting off circulation, which would cause your feet to feel cold), but not enough room for your feet to move from side to side (thus meaning you wouldn’t be able to properly control your skis). With boot rentals, make sure to ask questions to assure a proper fit.

Ski Trip Packing List for Kids

Kids ski layers are the same as adults, so here are the basics on how to dress kids for skiing:

• The base layer is so important! Make sure to pack those thermals.
• Fleece Pullover: The fleece goes over the base layer.
• Kids Ski Jacket & Ski Pants: A waterproof outerwear layer is essential.
• Kids Ski Accessories: Balacklava or neck warmer, snow gloves, wool socks and goggles.
  

After Ski Essentials

Once you’ve had your time on the slopes it can be beneficial to give your limbs, skin and hair some extra love. The extremely cold weather can take its toll, so I’ve found some essentials to help combat any skin, lip and hair dryness and to help soothe those sore muscles. Taking the time for a little self care will make your experience that much more enjoyable as a whole.

Important Tips Before You Go on your ski trip!

Pre-trip prep is a key factor in making sure you have an awesome trip. Like having your ski trip packing list ready, and items ordered well ahead of time before you go on your first skiing vacation! You don’t want to forget to take something with you and pay for overpriced goods on a slope.

Pack your sunblock and chapstick and reapply frequently, including on the bottom of your nose! In addition, don’t forget those sunglasses. The sun still shines on the mountains and when it reflects off the snow, you’ll feel it.

While I’ve linked to lots of items I’ve found, there’s no need to buy a bunch of expensive ski clothes for your first time skiing – raid your closet first! A couple of warm layers you can move in (not denim) to wear under a waterproof coat and pants are the basics for what you need on the slopes… along with snow gloves. The rest you should be able to rent, just check with the ski resort before you go!

Then… have fun, respect your limits and follow the rules. I can’t wait to hear your favorite part of a ski trip! Any tips you can share below?