In reading this guide, it is worth bearing in mind that I travel light; I don’t like paying for extra luggage on the plane and I hate carrying piles of suitcases while schlepping through the airport sweating (because I am wearing my week’s clothing) while my kids try and climb on every static object.
Others may not share my vision but I see myself as a kind of travelling Roger Federer: dropped off by a shiny car at the airport door, then gliding through security in a nice summer suit - with a discreet and very elegant piece of cabin baggage just behind.
Well, that’s the vision:
But the reality's a bit more like this:
Anyway, when packing for a ski holiday, I always find it is best to split things into two essential main categories: ‘On the snow’ and ’Off the snow’ – working from toes to top. Then you can look at the third category too: ‘Accessories’.
But the reality's a bit more like this:
Anyway, when packing for a ski holiday, I always find it is best to split things into two essential main categories: ‘On the snow’ and ’Off the snow’ – working from toes to top. Then you can look at the third category too: ‘Accessories’.
What to pack for a ski holiday – on the snow:
- Skis
- Boots
- Poles
- Socks (I total get it is disgusting but I wear one pair for two days’ skiing!)
- Snow pants (for the under 50s) / Salopettes (for the over 50s)
- Thermal leggings (for the wimps)
- Underwear
- Baselayer
- Ski tees
- Fleeces
- Jacket (or jackets for the mid-layer + shell crew)
- Gloves (having a spare set can make sense)
- Neck-warmer/ buff
- Goggles
- Sunglasses (for the cool kids)
- Helmet
- Hat
- Slope snacks - e.g. Mars Bars (x1 per day to keep you going while skiing)
- Suncream and lip balm!
What to pack for a ski holiday – off the snow:
What clothes you require for the early mornings and evenings depends on what you want to get out of your ski holidays but this guide is not for the young men who don’t leave home without at least two deep-v’s, nor for the women considering taking a pair of kitten heels. This is for those who want to chill out in the chalet or ski accommodation with family and friends. So, comfort is the name of the game with this list:- Slippers (decidedly unfashionable and oft forgotten but you will be thankful you brought them)
- Snowboots for December, January & February
- Trainers for March & April
- Socks
- Tracksuit bottoms (for the ultimate leg comfort!)
- Jeans
- Pants
- T-shirts
- Jumpers
- Hoodies
What to pack for a ski holiday – Accessories / Other:
Most accommodation providers, including the lovely people at The Chalet Company, normally provide certain items to make your stay more comfortable. As such, no need to pack a hairdryer or towels but you will need some essential bits and bobs that normally won't be included.- Toiletries
- Plug adaptors
- Laptop, iPad, Kindle
- One million chargers
- Book(s) (if you’re oldskool)
- European Health Insurance Card (useful for those in the EU, including the UK for now).