Skiing in Kashmir – Gulmarg
January 17, 2022
Solo Travel – The Ultimate Self-Care
February 10, 2025Despite what you see in the movies and star-studded pages of celebrity magazines, most ski resorts are laid back and have a casual vibe.
Vacations of any kind are foremost about having fun, and if you’re too cold, or too hot, it can be the quickest way to ruin your mood. Skiing is an active sport and the weather can be very unpredictable. Sometimes, if the clouds are low and foggy, the temperature can drop pretty drastically and the wind can make you really uncomfortable. That’s the last thing you want!
On the flip side, if the sun is out, even at the top of the mountain it can start to feel pretty warm, despite being surrounded by a blanket of snow.
So, to sum it up in a word, when it comes to packing for a ski trip, the key is LAYERS!
Despite what you see in the movies and star-studded pages of celebrity magazines, most ski resorts are laid back and have a casual vibe, so don’t think you have to be dressed up in your glamorous best either on or off the slopes. In fact, comfort is key and if you plan it well, you don’t need to overpack or struggle with excess baggage.
Skis, ski boots and poles always available to rent at the ski resort and if you’ve signed up for lessons with a ski school, they will usually include the rental of these pieces of equipment. Helmets, which are advisable, and sometimes mandatory on the slopes are also available to rent.
With the equipment taken care off, we come to wardrobe. First of course, is a pair of ski pants and a ski jacket. Now, if you’re new to skiing, or not sure if it’s something you’re going to do more than once or twice; there is absolutely no reason to go out and invest in special ski wear. A warm, waterproof jacket with a hood and a pair of waterproof pants work just as well for all except the harshest snowstorms and craziest slopes. Make sure neither your jacket, nor your pants are very fitted so you can wear layers underneath to stay warm.
It’s really important to make sure your chest is well covered and warm, so you don’t get sick and ruin your holiday.
It’s also a good idea to check with the ski resort before you travel, as the ski shop may have jackets and/pants available for rent which you can use for the duration of your trip.
Next up is either a couple of pairs of leggings or thermals that you can slip on under your ski pants. I personally prefer cotton leggings or thermals but regular Lycra leggings work perfectly too.
It’s really important to make sure your chest is well covered and warm, so you don’t get sick and ruin your holiday. Two thermal or long-sleeved tops to wear under your ski jacket will work perfectly, if they have high or turtlenecks, that’s definitely a bonus! Under that I normally stick to a sleeveless tank top or thermal vest. Make sure to carry at least three, since they can get wet or sweaty.
Two or three pairs of thick woollen socks, ski gloves, or just a pair of thickish waterproof gloves work just as well, a beanie or earmuffs to keep your ears warm and if you have long hair, a headband is a great addition to your packing to keep the hair out of your eyes and neatly tucked under your helmet.
Protecting your eyes on the slopes is essential because the snow can be very bright and the wind blowing into your eyes is far from ideal. Before you rush off to buy a pair of ski goggles though, remember that any pair of well-fitted sunglasses will work just as well. If they’re reflective, that’s a bonus, but not essential. I would advise using plastic framed glasses as metal frames may get brittle and snap in the cold. Also, maybe avoid using your favourite/most expensive glasses. Those aren’t the ones you want to lose to the slopes!
Some of my favourite brands for layers and ski necessities are Uniqlo and Decathlon, both of which have a wide selection of products that are comfortable, functional, stylish and won’t burn a hole in your pocket! If you’re so inclined or your budgeting permits, big her brands like Helly Hansen, Rossignol, Moncler, Eider and Canada Goose have great cold weather and ski-specific offerings as well.
PRO TIP: If you shop off season you can hey great deals and discounts. I even snagged my own pair of ski boots at almost 80% off!
Now that we have your ski gear and time on the slopes sorted it’s time to focus on the rest of your wardrobe, the aprés ski ensemble. Like I said, ski resorts are predominantly informal places, and comfort is the order of the day, so a couple of pairs of jeans, some nice sweatshirts or jumpers and a comfortable pair of sweatpants or lounge pants to wear around the hotel is is all you need. If you’re so inclined, a simple skirt or dress is always an option if you decide to go out to a nice meal or for a night on the town. If, like me, missing a workout is not an option, and your hotel or resort is equipped with a gym, don’t forget to pack some exercise clothes and shoes as well.
Apart from your clothes, a few pairs of socks, some warm and waterproof boots or shoes to walk around town in, a scarf, jacket (you can use your ski jacket too!) and a pair of comfortable slip on shoes or slippers to wear from your room to the ski room where you will change into your ski boots and clip on your skis.
Essentials like undergarments, pyjamas, toiletries are a given, and a high SPF sunscreen and powerful lip balm is a must. Sunscreen on a ski trip might seem counterintuitive, but the reflection of the sun off the beautiful white snow can be intense and your skin needs to be protected. The lip balm will keep your lips moist and avoid painful dryness and cracks.
Finally, don’t forget to carry any medications you may need, a couple of extra hair ties, snacks (if you like to munch or your hotel doesn’t include meals and 24 hour dining), earphones, cell phone charger, tablet/iPad or Kindle and its charger, travel adapter and any other special items you can’t travel without.
And of course, pack your sense of adventure and an open mind.
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Disha
Disha is a former corporate lawyer with a flair for writing. As an avid traveller, she is always seeking new adventures and loves telling stories about her globe trotting.
