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What to Take

Never skied before? We know it can be daunting and it's unlikely to be similar to any holiday you've been on before. But, don't worry, we've got all the information, help and advice to make sure you know exactly what to take. Our guide below covers all the essentials, but if you have any questions or want to talk things through, just give us a call or drop us an email and we'll be only too pleased to help.

Layering

Something you'll hear about a lot in winter sports is 'layering'. This is the principle of wearing multiple thinner layers to keep warm as opposed to one of two really thick layers. This means you can regulate your temperature better and remain comfortable, allowing you to add or remove layers to suit the weather conditions.

 

Ski and Snowboard Clothing

The mountain environment can be unpredictable and changeable so the key is preparation. Surprisingly, it can also be very warm, depending on conditions and the time of year so factor this in when you're thinking about what you need to pack. Regardless, the following is a pretty good idea of what you'll need for a short break or a week long ski holiday.

  • Ski Jacket - Need to be waterproof and preferably windproof. Jackets aimed more at beginners will have built in padding or wadding to keep you warm, but you can also get shell jackets which enable you to layer up beneath. You don't need more than one ski jacket.
  • Ski Trousers/Pants - As with the jacket, waterproof and windproof should be the main aim, but also make sure they're a comfortable fit and don't restrict your movement. You don't need more than one pair of ski trousers.
  • Baselayers - These are the thermal layers that provide warmth and normally come in sets of tops and bottoms. You should be able to get a couple of days' use out of a set of thermals so 3 sets should see you through a week of skiing.
  • Gloves/Mittens - Waterproof, insulated ski gloves or mittens are an essential. They should be waterproof and well fitted to ensure the ends of your fingers don't get cold. One pair should be plenty for a week. Please note, make sure you get proper winter sports gloves and not gloves designed for other sports.
  • Midlayers - These are slightly thicker than the baselayers and usually sit directly beneathe your ski jacket or ski trousers. An example is a fleece top. Two to three midlayers should be enough for a week of skiing.
  • Ski Socks - You need to try and get some specific ski socks which are designed to fit well into ski boots, avoiding rubbing and discomfort. Ski socks often have either no seams, or hidden seams to prevent friction. As a minimum, you should allow for one pair to last two days, but if preferred and budget allows, a pair a day is ideal. Avoid wearing more than one pair at the same time - it might keep out the cold but will leave you in severe discomfort.
  • Hat - Not an essential, particularly if you're wearing a helmet, but a beanie style hat is a cheap and easy bit of clothing that will help you stay warm. One should be plenty.
  • Neck Warmer/Buff - These can be particularly useful for keeping your neck and face warm. Not an essential, but they can be purchased inexpensively and they're small and can easily tucked away in a pocket.

If you're a first time skier/snowboarder then have a look at our ski clothing rental service. As well as offering the rental of ski jacket and trousers, we also sell a range of ski accessories which are ideal for beginners.

 

Non Ski Clothing / What To Take For Off The Slopes

The good news is that ski resorts tend to be a little more relaxed when it comes to what people wear, this includes most restaurants as well, meaning you can generally stay casual. The other good news is that many of your ski items can double up and be worn in the evenings.

  • Warm Jacket - This is essential if you're planning on heading out in the evening, but bear in mind your Ski Jacket will work just as well and so it's not always necessary to take two jackets with you.
  • Sweater/Hoody - Something warm and comfortable that fits under your jacket well. How many you take depends on how many times you're likely to wear it and for how any days, but for a week-long ski holiday you're probably going to need two or three.
  • Jeans/Joggers - Again, something warm and comfortable and probably two to three pairs should be fine.
  • Underwear - You probably need to think about two pairs a day. You'll like want to change the underwear you've worn during skiing for the evening, so plan accordingly and don't forget travel days!
  • Footwear - Although it's often thought you need some kind of winter boots, you can also get away with trainers, assuming they're waterproof. The fabric kind won't do you any favours. One pair is more than enough and should be fine for walking to/from ski hire as well as the evenings.
  • Gloves/Scarf/Hat - You can easily use your ski kit stuff, but if you want something a little less bulky then take additionals with you.
  • Sleepwear/Pyjamas - Whatever you normally wear! There's no special kit for sleeptime.

 

Toiletries

For your personal care, just take all you need to follow your daily routines and hygiene. Don't overdo it though because you've got to carry everything on your journey and some airports and airlines have restrictions on what you can take through security.

In addition to your normal toiletries, you will also need.

  • Suncream - Although it can be cold, the air is thinner and the exposure to the sun is stronger. It's imperative you have a good suncream and make sure you cover all exposed areas at least twice daily.
  • Lip balm - Your lips can take a battering in the mountains so a good lip balm is great to stop them cracking and becoming sore.