The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List
Planning a ski vacation to the Rocky Mountains? Whether you’re heading to Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, or any other world-class resort in the Rockies, this comprehensive ski trip packing list will ensure you’re fully prepared for your mountain adventure. From insulated, waterproof ski jackets and moisture-wicking base layers to wool socks that keep your feet warm in any weather, this list covers all the essentials for skiing or snowboarding in varying alpine conditions. We’ve also included recommendations for après ski attire, dining out in mountain towns, and exploring everything your resort has to offer off the slopes.
Ski And Snowboard Clothing
The Tip:
Remember to pack lots of warm layers, as the weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly and dramatically. If you forget something, stop in at a local outfitter.The List:
- Jacket – 1 to 3 waterproof ski jackets
- Pants – 1 to 3 waterproof ski pants
- Snowsuits – 1 to 2 waterproof snowsuits
- Additional insulation – down or fleece vest
- Base layer tops – 1 to 4 non-cotton base layer tops
- Base layer bottoms – 1 to 4 non-cotton base layer bottoms
- Gloves & mittens – waterproof and insulated ski gloves or mittens
- Sweaters – 1 to 4 fleece or wool sweaters
- Warm winter hat
- Socks – 3 to 4 wool ski socks
- Neck gaiter – non-cotton balaclava or ski mask
Ski And Snowboard Gear
The Tip:
Don’t want to bring your gear? Learn more about renting ski and snowboard equipment from a local rental shop and how you can save when you package equipment rentals with lodging. Also, bring along different colored goggle lenses. Pack yellow lenses for snowy days, and polarized lenses for sunny days.The List:
- Skis and ski poles or snowboard
- Ski boots or snowboard boots
- Goggles
- Sunglasses
- Helmet
- Hand and toe warmers – 1 to 7 packs of each, or electric boot warmers
- Hydration pack
Mountain Casual / Non-Ski Clothing
The Tip:
While most mountain villages have high-end restaurants where you might want to dress up (a bit), a coat and tie or anything considered “formal” is not necessary. Most mountain towns still, at their core, are Western mountain towns.The List:
- Warm winter jacket
- Warm winter hat
- Gloves and mittens
- Sweaters
- Jeans and pants
- Warm winter socks
- Waterproof winter boots
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear – Tops and bottoms
Miscellaneous
The Tip:
Many ski resort lift tickets operate on a radio frequency that automatically opens gates at the lifts when you approach. They are best stored in an interior zippered pocket in your jacket.The List:
- Ski tickets/Ski passes
- Itineraries, tickets, and reservation confirmations
- Credit card and cash
- Identification card
- Medical insurance cards
- Prescriptions and other medications
- Mask
- Hand sanitizer
- Power cables for electronics – phone, computer, electric toothbrush, etc.
Toiletries
The Tip:
Because of the Rockies, and Colorado specifically, high elevation (and frequent sunshine), sunscreen is an absolute essential. Sunburns happen much quicker in a thinner atmosphere, so make sure you have it on hand.The List:
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Aloe vera cream
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash
- Hair brush, combs, and other hair accessories
- Lotion
- Deodorant
- Shaving supplies
- Cosmetics
- Cotton balls
- Nail clippers and nail file
- Scissors
- Tweezers
For A Baby
The Tip:
For last-minute baby needs, mountain towns have grocery stores (City Market, Safeway, Whole Foods, etc.) as well as pharmacies. Check to see if there are mountain markets closer to the base area.The List:
- Diaper bag
- Disposable diapers
- Changing pad
- Baby powder and lotion
- Wet wipes
- Bibs
- Baby food and spoon
- Bottles and caps
- Formula
- Pacifiers
- Changes of clothing – tops, bottoms, and socks
- Warm winter jacket
- Warm winter hat
- Mittens
- Sweaters
- Stroller
- Car seat
- Child-carrying pack
- Blankets
- Burp pads
- Bathing supplies – shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion
Nice To Have
The Tip:
Worried about finding things to do with the kids off the slopes? You need not worry. Your RMG Travel Specialist is available to answer questions and steer you in the right direction!The List:
- Headphones and batteries
- Hiking and snowshoeing trail guidebooks
- Sports equipment for other outdoor activities – Such as snowshoes, Nordic skiing gear, hiking poles, etc.
- Travel pillows