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Packing For A Ski Season: The Ultimate Resort Checklist

Packing for a ski season can be a total nightmare. We've got the ultimate checklist to help everything fit into your suitcase

Need a handy checklist when you’re packing for a ski season? Look no further. Photo: Mike Schirf

Packing for a ski season can be a total nightmare. You’ve got five months worth of clothes (including ski gear) and only a 20kg suitcase to fit it in.

Ski Season Jobs: How To Get A Job In A Ski Resort

Never fear. We’re here to help with the ultimate ski season packing checklist – plus a couple of helpful tips on how to squeeze all that bulky gear into a single case.

Packing for a ski season with hand luggage only? Watch this handy video…

What To Pack For A Ski Season

You will definitely need the following when packing for a ski season:

  • Ski gear – shiny new outerwear is overrated, so don’t feel you need a whole new wardrobe. Although a new pair of skis wouldn’t go amiss…
  • Helmet – ah, the helmet debate. It’s an ongoing discussion – here’s why you might consider wearing a helmet.
  • Socks, sock and more socks – you can never have too many socks.
  • Painkillers – Paracetamol costs £5 as opposed to 18p in the mountains.
  • Extension leads – everyone has too many chargers, these will be super handy in a shared dorm.
  • A shit (but warm) jacket – otherwise known as a beer coat. It’s got to be cheap and won’t cause grief when it gets stolen from a crowded bar at 2am.
  • Condoms – need we say more…
  • Duct tape – from re-waterproofing boots to fancy dress assistance, duct tape is must-have stuff.
Packing for a ski season? Bring your woolly jumper. Photo: Tumblr

WHAT NOT TO PACK FOR A SKI SEASON

You definitely won’t need these when packing for a ski season:

  • High heels – snow plus stilettos does not mix.
  • Any fancy clothing whatsoever (but do bring a million pairs of underwear/ski socks/black trousers)
  • Uggs – one word: soggy.

Can’t find the right ski gear to suit you? You be might be interested in reading this piece on why brands are getting rid of women’s ski range.

Photo: Liam Doran/On The Snow

The ultimate ski season packing checklist

Looking for a more comprehensive list to help with packing for your ski season? Then check out this useful checklist:

Ski equipment

  • Skis and poles
  • Snowboard
  • Ski/snowboard boots
  • Helmet
  • Backpack
  • Avalanche kit inc. transceiver, shovel, probe

Clothing

  • Outerwear – jacket and pants
  • Ski socks
  • Ski gloves
  • Beanies
  • Goggles
  • Neck warmers
  • Thermal leggings
  • Base layer tops
  • Beer jacket
  • Jumpers
  • Going out clothes (you probably won’t need a dress all season)
  • Jeans
  • Flip flops
  • Trainers
  • Snow boots
  • Slippers
  • Swimsuit
  • Underwear
  • Pyjamas

Toiletries and First Aid

  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Hair brush
  • Suncream
  • Moisturiser
  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Razor
  • Make up
  • Paracetamol and ibuprofen
  • Contact lenses (if you need ’em)

Other

  • Phone and charger
  • Laptop and charger
  • Camera and charger
  • GoPro
  • Headphones
  • Plug adaptors
  • Hairdryer
  • Sunglasses
  • Playing cards
  • Duct tape
  • Laundry bag

Don’t forget!

  • Passport
  • Driver’s licence
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa documents (if you need them)
  • Wallet, credit card and cash
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