What to Pack for a Ski Trip
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There’s nothing quite like the rush of shredding down the mountain, breaking a sweat, feeling accomplished—all while exuding style and comfortability. To pack smart on a ski (or snowboarding) trip is to ensure you are ready for all the slopes throw at you—whether it be a tumble on the icy terrain or making a new friend. The key is versatility—switching effortlessly between shredding and après-ing with a few strategic pieces. From the adrenaline of the slopes to that post-run satisfaction, your next winter ski trip calls for gear that delivers on performance and style alike.
Start with a top-tier ski jacket from Helly Hansen or Arc’teryx, built to withstand the elements without compromising appearance. Ski goggles like those from Smith Optics or Burton handle shifting light and snow glare while keeping your look on point. Down jackets (try Uniqlo or Quince) make the perfect layer for breaks at the lodge, while a durable helmet brings safety and maybe even confidence. For all that and more—below, a packing list of essentials for your next ski trip.
The ski trip essentials:
- The ski jacket
- The ski pant
- The down jacket
- The ski goggles
- The ski helmet
- The cozy hat
- The knit sweater
- The warm layers
- The ski gloves
- The ski socks
- The snow boots
- The backpack
The ski jacket
A great ski jacket is the cornerstone of your mountain gear—keeping you warm, dry, and agile. This season, brands delivered jackets that blend high-performance tech with sharp designs. Insulation and waterproofing are non-negotiable—and so are details like breathability and a fit that moves with you.
Pack options like the Helly Hansen Powderface for durability and warmth—perfect for stormy days or powder-chasing. Meanwhile, the Dope Snow Adept leans into lightweight versatility with a modern edge that doesn’t compromise on performance. From tried-and-true classics to fresh new designs, make sure your jacket ticks every box—whether you’re carving the slopes, braving unpredictable weather, or just taking in the alpine views along the way.
The ski pants
Ski pants do more than just keep you warm—they’re your shield against the elements and a key part of performance on the slopes. The best pairs combine reliable protection with flexibility, so you can move freely without sacrificing comfort. Always try the pants on with your boots to ensure the length and fit are just right.
For sleek and flattering styles, The North Face Lenado snow pants offers a streamlined design with waterproof tech that doesn’t feel bulky. Patagonia’s Powder Town pants are all about durability and sustainability, built to handle the harshest conditions without compromising comfort. Whether you prefer a snug, form-fitting silhouette or a more relaxed cut, the right ski pants let you focus on shredding the mountain (and not adjusting your gear).
The down jacket
A padded down jacket is crucial for post-slopes. The Quince Responsible Down Jacket offers eco-friendly warmth with a sleek, minimal design perfect for everyday wear. Meanwhile, the Burton Expedition Jacket provides rugged insulation with a performance-driven style. Whether you’re after a refined, versatile look or a more durable, outdoor-ready option—these jackets offer the ideal balance of comfort and fashion.
The ski goggles
Ski goggles are an essential investment for any winter adventure, serving both protection and clear vision. The Oakley Flight Tracker provides a wide field of view with advanced lens technology, ensuring clarity in varying conditions. The Dope Snow Sight Goggles combine sleek design with high-performance lenses, delivering a pop of color along with functionality. Protect your goggles from scratches—always pack them in a soft case or cloth. Whether you prioritize visibility or a bold look, investing in quality goggles ensures you’re prepared for whatever the mountain throws at you. Pro tip: take your helmet with you to try on goggles so you can make sure they fit within the frame.
The ski helmet
A non-negotiable for both safety and performance, ski helmets like those from Moncler and Goldbergh offer top-tier protection with carefully engineered features—ventilation systems, adjustable fits, and lightweight materials—all for comfort and security. Beyond safety, these helmets prove that you don’t have to sacrifice style (and perhaps–ensuring confidence of protection and appearance. Investing in a high-quality helmet means you're getting the best of both worlds: optimal protection with a sleek, fashionable edge.
The cozy hat
The old wives' tales are true—you really do lose most heat through your head, so wrap up warm whether you’re on the town or stopping for a hot chocolate. The Alo Yoga Winterfun Zhivago hat offers comfort with a playful design, while the Alp n Rock Après II beanie brings a more timeless, chic look. When searching for a hat, combine warmth with flair. Whether you’re headed to post-slope DJ cocktail hour or just enjoying a snowy day, they add a fun touch to your winter wardrobe.
The knit sweater
Embrace your surroundings and lean into the alpine lifestyle with a knit sweater. These fun, retro logos and designs are both warm and stylish. For warmth off the slopes, layer up with knit essentials like the Alp N Rock Rory cardigan or the Flint and Tinder wool sweater—it will complete your ensemble.
The warm layers
Be sure to pack a wardrobe of layering tops (vests, T-shirts, long-sleeve tops, fleece jackets)—but don’t forget to layer up your bottom half as well. Opt for base layers, like winter leggings, that can be worn under your ski suit—especially useful if you want to strip off your outer layers and jacket come lunchtime—as well as for lounging around aprés ski. From Alo to Arc'teryx, these brands offer matching base layers for the chicest alpine look.
The ski gloves
A solid pair of gloves is key to keeping your hands warm and dry on the slopes. Options like the Swany X-Change mitten, Burton Gore-Tex gloves, and Hestra Heli glove offer durability, waterproofing, and flexibility—ensuring comfort in any condition. These gloves blend performance and style, so you can focus on the mountain without worrying about your hands.
The ski socks
The right socks make a world of difference for comfort and warmth on a ski trip. Merino wool blends, like those from Bombas and Arc'teryx, provide excellent insulation while managing moisture, keeping your feet warm and dry. These socks are designed for durability and comfort, offering the perfect fit for long days on the slopes. Pro tip: For really icy conditions, put hand warmers in the tip of your boot to keep your toes warm.
The snow boots
For snowy days, insulated and waterproof boots like the Hunter Maribel insulated snow boot and Sorel Caribou boots offer reliability and warmth. With sturdy construction and stylish designs, these winter boots ensure comfort from the first step to après-ski.
The backpack
A great ski backpack helps keep your gear organized and accessible. The Burton Gig Boot pack, Deuter Ski Tour backpack, and Osprey Farpoint travel pack are designed to carry everything you need, with specialized compartments and durable materials.
A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.. It has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
