What to pack for a ski resort, according to an Alaskan mountaineer
After 30 years working as a ski coach, our expert has perfected her gear, from ski goggles to cozy sweaters.
Winter brings some of my favorite things: The holidays, cozy nights by the woodstove, and ski trips. As a mountain guide in Alaska and former ski coach, I’ve been skiing for over 30 years and I still can’t get enough of a long day on the slopes, followed by après time with friends.
Over the years, I’ve helped tons of skiers perfect their packing list so they can enjoy their snowy vacations, no matter the weather. From the best ski jacket to warm boots for walking around town, this ski packing list has everything beginners and pros need for an unforgettable resort stay.
However, it’s important to note that ski equipment (skis, boots, helmets) is based on many factors, such as personal preference, skiing ability, height and weight, and terrain. For advice on technical gear, I recommend heading to your local ski shop.
What to pack for a ski resort—a checklist
When I’m packing for a ski resort, I generally make two checklists: One for skiing and another for relaxing off the slopes. From ski goggles with interchangeable lenses to cozy and stylish resort wear, here’s everything you need to enjoy a wintry escape.
(10 things to know about this ski season, from revamped resorts to ice issues)
For skiing
Protecting yourself from the elements is key when you’re out on the slopes. Pack clothing and gear that will keep you warm and dry throughout the day, such as a pair of gloves that can handle a bit of moisture, an insulated ski jacket that’s either waterproof or water-repellent, and UV-blocking ski goggles.
Buy it now on Amazon
Having a good pair of ski goggles is important. They reduce glare, block UV rays, and protect your eyes when you’re speeding down the slopes. These Smith Optics I/O Mag ski goggles have incredible airflow and anti-fog properties. The ChromaPop lenses boost both color and contrast. The best part is you can easily change out the magnetic lenses to suit sunny or overcast days.
Ski gloves and ski mitts
Buy it now on Amazon
Buy it now at Black Diamond Equipment
As someone who suffers from poor circulation, a warm pair of ski gloves is vital. Hestra’s Army Leather Heli Ski Gloves provide ample warmth for average cold days. If they get a bit damp, you can remove the liners so they can dry out before your next outing. That’s especially handy for consecutive days of skiing. When the temperature outside drops below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, I grab Black Diamond Mercury Mitts. They’re rated to keep your hands warm at those lower temperatures and also come with removeable liners.
Buy it now at Helly Hansen
Helly Hansen has long been one of the most trusted brands for resort ski gear. The Alpha 4.0 ski jacket is one of the company’s best sellers. It’s insulated and waterproof, yet breathable for high output days. The powder skirt helps keep snow out, while the brim is large enough to fit over a helmet. It’s also got pockets for your ski pass and one made to keep your phone battery going when it’s especially cold out. We also appreciate that this jacket is made with Bluesign-certified fabric and a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish.
(Stay warm on and off the slopes in these women’s jackets.)
Insulated ski pants (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Helly Hansen (women’s; men’s)
Waterproof, breathable, and stretchy, these Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pants (which come in women’s and men’s sizes) have plenty of insulation to keep you warm. They also have thigh-vent zippers that let you dump heat on hotter days. Like the jacket, these ski pants are Bluesign-certified and have a PFC-free durable water repellent finish. If you want more coverage, you can try the bib version (which also come in women’s and men’s sizes), which we like for deep powder days too.
Warm base layer top (women’s; men’s) and bottoms (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Smartwool
Buy it now at Smartwool
Base layers are key to keeping you warm on resort skiing days. Basics made of merino wool do a great job of insulating, even if you get a little damp, and blocking odors. I love Smartwool’s Classic Quarter Zip Top (women’s/men’s) and Bottoms (women’s/men’s)—they’re incredibly soft and warm, and the top’s zip neckline offers some ventilation on warmer days.
Ski sweater mid-layer (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Patagonia
Buy it now at Patagonia
Ski sweaters make perfect mid-layers for resort days. Patagonia’s Better Sweater Quarter Zip Fleece (available in women’s and men’s) has a cozy knit aesthetic and is made with 100-percent recycled polyester fleece that’s easy to care for. The stand-up collar provides extra warmth around your neck, while the zip lets you shed heat if you get a bit too warm. We also love the zippered chest pocket for securely stashing your phone or sunscreen while riding the lifts. Even better, it’s made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.
(Backpack or roller bag, these are the best carry-ons.)
Midweight ski socks (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Darn Tough Vermont (women’s; men’s)
These Darn Tough Edge Over-the-Calf Midweight Ski & Snowboard socks have just the right amount of cushioning and insulation to keep your feet happy during a long day in ski boots. They come in women’s and men’s versions, but the best part is that they’re included in the company’s Guaranteed for Life program. These socks are built to last, but should they get a bit threadbare or even develop holes, you can exchange them for a new pair.
Buy it now at Backcountry Access
Skiing with a backpack is optional but can be useful on long days, or for sidecountry skiing away from your lodge. One of the things I love about the BCA Stash 12 Backpack is its low profile. It won’t inhibit your ability to get on and off the chairlift. There’s still plenty of room for snacks, water, and extra layers. Separate shovel and probe sleeves are handy in case you decide to head into avalanche terrain. If you do decide to go off piste, make sure you have the proper avalanche training and equipment. Otherwise, stay close to your resort.
Buy it now on Amazon
Sunscreen is just as important during winter as it is in summer, especially when you’re skiing. Snow and ice can reflect UV rays and magnify the harmful effects on your skin. When I’m skiing at a resort, I use the SunBum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick. It goes on clear, and the stick form makes it easy to apply while wearing gloves. After applying, I can tuck it into a pocket for later.
(These top sunscreen sticks are perfect for winter outings.)
Buy it now on Amazon
I always carry a pair of hand and toe warmers in my ski bag for those extra cold days. HotHands are my favorite because they’re easy to use and offer long-lasting warmth. I stash them in my gloves and ski boots 10-15 minutes before heading out for the day—typically, I get eight hours of warmth per pair.
For the ski resort
After a day out on the slopes, you’ll want to change out of bulky ski gear and into something comfortable and stylish for lounging around the resort. Here are my go-tos.
Buy it now at Skida
Buy it now at Skida
During the winter, I live in my Skida High Pile Fleece Hat. It’s the first thing I put on after taking my ski helmet off. Soft and comfortable, it offers incredible warmth without sacrificing style. If a beanie is too much, Skida also has Alpine headbands in a variety of fun patterns that keep your ears warm too.
Warm winter scarf or neckwarmer
Buy it now at Icebreaker
Buy it now at Skida
Scarves are winter essentials, especially when you’re hitting the slopes. I usually look for merino wool scarves, which feel soft against the skin and provide plenty of warmth. Icebreaker’s Merino Waypoint Scarf has a classic knit look and it’s wide enough for full coverage around your neck. When I’m skiing, I throw on a Skida Low Pile Fleece Tube Neckwarmer, which fits nicely under a ski jacket.
Buy it now at Backcountry
Ski goggles are necessary for the slopes, but a good pair of sunglasses are more comfortable for hanging out around the resort or in town. Sunski’s Treeline Polarized Sunglasses have an aviator shape with lenses that come in a variety of VLT, or visible light transmission, percentages (the lower the VLT, the more light the lenses block). All are polarized and block UVA, UVB, and UV400 rays. Magnetic, detachable shields help protect your eyes from side glare on particularly sunny days, so you can relax on the deck.
(Gather round the fire with these smokeless fire pits.)
Casual winter sweater (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Royal Robbins
Buy it now at Royal Robbins
The namesake company founded by pioneering mountain climber, Royal Robbins, is known for making clothing that bridges the gap between performance and style. The company’s Rockcraft Wool Crew Sweater (women’s/men’s) is made with 100-percent merino wool that’s durable, odor resistant, and moisture wicking. We love the classic style, which keeps you warm and comfortable on its own and fits well under a jacket.
Versatile winter pants (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Kuhl
Buy it now at Kuhl
Kuhl’s Men’s Hot Ryder and Women’s Kontour pants are both lined with cozy, soft flannel. They’re comfortable enough for easy days around the fire but nice enough to wear to a casual local restaurant.
Sturdy snow boots (women’s; men’s)
Buy it now at Backcountry
Buy it now at Muck Boot Co.
Waterproof and insulated with a comfortable fleece lining, Muck Boot’s sturdy Arctic Ice Mid Boot for men are lace-less and easy to pull on—ideal after a long day of dealing with ski boot buckles. The soles are made with Vibram Arctic Grip, designed to help keep your feet steady on wet and loose surfaces. The Blundstone Chelsea Thermal Boots are a stylish option for women that are also sturdy enough for walking plowed paths and around the resort. The boots are waterproof and insulated, with a sheepskin footbed for added comfort.
