When I picked skiing back up a few years ago — ending a decade-long hiatus — I panicked at the thought of a ski trip where I couldn’t bring a checked bag. How was I supposed to fit ski pants, a ski jacket, a ski suit, base layers, and après-ski outfits into one carry-on suitcase? After all, Instagram Reels and TikTok show us a world where everyone has Moon Boots, faux fur, and multiple Perfect Moment’s outfits.
I’ve since come to my senses. I’d rather have one ski look than endure the stress of tight layovers paired with winter-weather delays and praying my checked bag arrives to my destination.
With a couple of early-season ski trips under my belt this year, I put together my essentials for any ski trip, including my favorite ski socks (I also wrote about them for Travel + Leisure), the shoes that carry me through the winter, and base layers I don’t mind wearing for a solid 12 hours.
Warm, water-resistant boots and ski socks
My exact La Canadienne boots aren’t sold anymore, but this pair is extremely similar. The lace-up style is versatile, the shearing lining is very warm, and the waterproof material is much needed when trekking through snowy terrain. As far as actual ski gear, my favorite socks are from Bombas — though this Halfdays style is already giving them a run for their money.
Ski jacket and bibs + base layers
I’m clearly a full Halfdays convert. I love their outerwear — this snow jacket and these bibs in particular — and nearly all of my base layers are also from the brand. I have a few different sets, but this new version (I have the top and bottoms in the alpine green) is a bit lighter and less formfitting. I like them better for warmer days on the slopes.
Travel-friendly layers and pants
Depending on where you’re skiing, you might not even change for après-ski activities. Still, you’ll probably want some “regular” clothes for travel or dinner. I always pack one sweater (more than that will add unnecessary bulk), one trouser-type of pant, and a layer-able turtleneck.
Other cold-weather essentials
I’ve tried a few different gloves in my lifetime, but I can definitively say that these Hestra gloves keep my hands the warmest (even when I’m skiing in Jackson Hole). I also love that they have a removable fleece liner; if my hands start to sweat after a grueling run, I’ll remove them and tuck them in my jacket. As far as headgear, I love this balaclava; it’s comfortable under my helmet and it keeps my face protected from wind and snow.
These fleece-lined leggings are another important addition to my packing list. My legs tend to get chilly when I’m on the ski lift, so I like to wear them over my base layers.
Bulk-friendly luggage
When I went out to Snowbasin right before Christmas, I only brought my Away Bigger Carry-On and a backpack. The latter was a Calpak style I was testing for the first time. Safe to say, this spacious bag is now officially in my travel rotation.
Great packing list! I feel like this post should be called, what to pack if you actually ski ;)