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Going away for a week to enjoy the slopes and soak up some mountain sunshine? These ski essentials will help you decide what you should and shouldn’t bring when staying in a resort or winter rental. Find out what they are!
Ski Essentials
Essentials
Having the right ski gear can make a huge difference to your vacation. Whether you’re borrowing things from a friend or buying the newest stuff in the shops, make sure your items are comfortable, fit, and are appropriate for the weather and snow conditions.
For clothing and shoes, take a look at this ski trip packing list for fashionistas!
These are the ski essentials you’ll need before hitting the slopes:
Columbia Alpine Action Oh Jacket
Salopettes and Ski Jacket
Bring thick waterproof trousers and a thick waterproof coat with slight padding to help keep you warm and dry in the mountains.
If you want a more feminine look opt for slim ski pants, which have a less baggy cut. Alternatively, choose stretch ski pants that look more like leggings.
Just a little tip: the brighter the colors, the easier it is for your friends and family to spot you in a whiteout.
Goggles
The weather is never guaranteed on a ski vacation. It could be filled with sunshine or with snowstorms, so it’s important to prepare for all weather conditions.
Add a decent pair of goggles to your ski essentials checklist. Even if the visibility isn’t great you can get down the mountain without much hassle. To keep updated on the weather conditions near your departure, check out http://www.snow-forecast.com.
Also, don’t forget your sunglasses when you’re not skiing. Here’s why we recommend polarized sunglasses!
Icebreaker Merino Women’s Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe Top and Bottom
Thermals
The average temperature for a ski resort is 14°F, which is far from warm. While skiing is a physical activity that can make you hot and sweaty, there is nothing worse than sitting on a chair lift and freezing your socks off.
A good set of thermals is one of your top ski essentials to wear under your gear and you’ll make those long chairs and drag lifts a bit more bearable. For those extra chilly days, bring a fleece hoodie as well.
These are some tips on how to choose the warmest thermals for women!
Smartwool Women’s Popcorn Cable Crew Socks
Ski Socks
Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, the correct ski socks are crucial for having a comfortable week. If no one has ever told you this before, brace yourself: ski boots are not comfortable. Buy a few pairs of decent ski socks to help your feet through the week.
Tip: If it’s your first time skiing, you may want to rent ski gear. If you’re bringing your own, read these ski gear packing tips.
Mountain Made Outdoor Gloves for Women
Warm Accessories
No snow vacation would be complete without warm accessories. Bring a fleece neck warmer, ski gloves, and a hat. You may also want to bring regular winter gloves to use when you’re not on the slopes.
Here are the best warmest gloves for cold weather travel!
Extras
The great thing about staying in a resort lodge is that it allows you to feel at home. Your meals are cooked for you, your beds are made for you, and all you have to do is relax and enjoy yourself. Some places offer a few extras so it’s worth checking what’s included. If your rental will be missing home comforts you can’t miss, bring them along to make your trip even more enjoyable.
Alexander Del Rossa Women’s Warm Fleece Robe
Slippers and Dressing Gown
I love staying in lodges. I’ll always take my slippers and robe with me (unless they’re provided) so I can feel extra comfortable when I come in from a day on the slopes. Also, if I’m lucky enough to have a place with a spa, then slippers and a robe is a must.
These tips on how to stay warm in cold weather are a must read!
Bobs from Skechers Keepsakes Ice Angel Slipper
DVDS
Your lodge will probably have a TV and a DVD player so take along some DVDs for those nights you just want to relax.
Also, if you have young children, they’ll likely finish their supper before you have yours, so sticking on a movie for the kids is a great way to have a relaxing evening.
Here are some ski clothes for kids along with tips for first time skiers!
Miraclesuit Women’s Gypsy Odyssey One-Piece
Swimming Gear
This is one of those ski essentials that’s easily forgotten. Some resorts have built-in spas so you can come back from a day on the mountain and relax in a hot tub or sauna. Make sure you check out what’s included in your package before booking your vacation so you know what to expect.
For those who don’t have that luxury, some destinations have spa centers with large pools for children and relaxation rooms for adults. Check out what’s available in your location and make sure you pack your swimsuits so you don’t miss out.
How to Pack Clothes for a Ski Trip
Packing cubes can help organize all the layers you have in mind for winter travels. We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. The video below shows you how!
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
What are your ski essentials for a winter vacation on the slopes? Please comment below!
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For more tips and ideas on ski trips, please read:
- Hitting the Slopes? 5 Ski Trip Essentials Not to Forget
- Ski Clothes for Kids: Fantastic Packing Tips for First-time Skiers
- The A – Z Of What To Bring On A Ski Trip
- 18 Ski Packing List Do’s and Don’ts
Thank you for sharing these ski essentials. They are really helpful.
Great ideas!
Thanks!