The ultimate ski holiday checklist

First off, let’s start with the ski clothing that you’ll need to stay cozy both on and off the slopes. Here’s what to wear for a ski trip to ensure maximum comfort and warmth.

No matter if you’re a total pro or a complete novice, there are quite a few bits and pieces you need to be on the slopes. Your ski clothing should keep you warm and protected while giving you the ability to move around and stay active.

Your ski gear for the slopes should include a ski jacket, snow pants, ski boots, and gloves. No matter the ski season, weather conditions can quickly change while in the mountains, which is why all your attire needs to be waterproof.

The key word to remember when figuring out what to pack for a ski holiday is layers. Without the proper layers, you could run too cold or even too hot pretty quickly. That is to say, in addition to the ski jacket, snow pants, and snow boots you’re packing, also look for thermal underwear, fleece leggings, vests, and ski socks.

After a long day of fun in the snow, you’ll probably want to wind down in your beautiful ski resort, soak in a hot tub, or relax in the hot springs. For that, you’ll need the right attire.

Of course, what you bring to lounge around the resort is up to you, your personal style, bag space, and preferences. That said, you should consider bringing a wool ski jacket and maybe a lighter winter jacket. You can also bring a flannel shirt for the cozy nights in the room or by the fire.

If your preferred ski resort does have a pool or hot tub, or you plan on visiting hot springs, also consider bringing a bathing suit.

In addition to the ski pants and ski boots, pack a ski sweater and maybe a hoodie. Finally, all that is left are your undergarments and your favourite bits and pieces and you’re set.

With your winter jacket, snow pants, and ski clothing neatly packed up in your duffel bag or whatever luggage you have, it’s time to move on to equipment and accessories.
For your ski trip, you’re going to need your ski gear. Depending on what you plan on doing, you can get a variety of gear, but there are a few staples you should always take with you. That includes a helmet, goggles, a neck gaiter, a water bottle, and a hat. These are all relatively small items that don’t take up too much space and that you can put in your duffel bag. Then, there are the skis, ski boots, and snowboards. Depending on your skills, experience, affinities, and budget, you might want to consider renting some of these things at the resort instead of bringing them with you.

Depending on where you’re staying for your ski trip, you also might need to bring some toiletries. These can include a body lotion, face wash, electronic toothbrush, lip balm, hair straightener, and more.

You should consider bringing hand sanitizer, hair products, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and more. Also, as mountain air is typically dry, make sure your lip balm and moisturizer make their way into your kit.

However, above all else, make sure to bring your sunscreen. The combination of high altitude, UV radiation, and the reflection of snow and ice means you could experience sun damage.

Of course, you'll get complimentary toiletries when you stay at any of the exclusive Club Med ski resorts. These include a body lotion, shampoo, and shower gel for every room. But if you need more, make sure to pack whatever you need in your travel luggage.

While toiletries and amenities are always optional, there are some things your ski trip can’t be without – luggage. When thinking about what to pack for a ski holiday, one of the biggest considerations is the luggage you’re taking as size plays a crucial role.

When thinking about the luggage you’re going to bring on your holiday, you should consider:

Size and length
Capacity
Material
Soft case vs. hard case
Padding
Wheels
Handles and straps
Additional pockets
Price
When it comes to buying the best ski bag, it’s important to consider the size and to get something that is a similar length as your skis. That way, you aren’t lugging around too much or being packed in too tightly.

If you’re taking multiple skis, make sure your ski bag fits the longest pair. Then, you can easily pack additional ski gear at the bottom of the bag.

Another thing to consider is getting a padded ski bag as it’s the best way to protect your equipment during transport.

For your clothes and toiletries, either pack everything in the luggage you already have or get something sturdy and sizeable enough to accommodate your things. A duffel bag might be a good choice as it offers flexibility and spaciousness.

First off, roll your clothes up to make more space. You can lay all of your light items of clothing on top of each other and roll them into a bundle rather than fold them. That way, you can save a lot of space in your luggage for other bulkier items like ski pants, a flannel shirt, a face wash, a water bottle, or anything else you have in mind.

You should also consider packing some vacuum bags with you. Not only will vacuum bags allow you some extra space, but they can also keep the soggy items from your last day of skiing separate them from your clean, dry items.

When figuring out what to take on a ski trip, it’s key to realize the importance of waterproofing. First off, you need to wrap all of your toiletries to prevent the worst from happening during transport (i.e. them exploding and ruining all of your clothes).

The next tip for your winter holiday packing list is to put all of your fragile items into your more sturdy ones, like your helmet. You can place your goggles, camera, or any other items inside the helmet before packing them away into the suitcase.

As any experienced skier will tell you when you ask them what to pack for skiing – lots of socks and plenty of underwear. As you’ll most likely be active during the day, you will probably sweat and require a change of clothes. Pack a few pairs of your comfortable and breathable socks and underwear, as well as a few of their thermal counterparts.

Once you’ve packed your extras, you’ll likely realize that there’s not much room for anything else except for your staples. Keep your “just in case” items at home and focus on comfort, warmth, and layers.

When considering what to pack for a ski vacation, it’s important to remember a few principles. Pack light layers that breathe, while providing comfort and warmth. Also, make sure your luggage is sturdy and durable, and leave with you ample room to pack your necessities, along with a few additional garments and toiletries.

If you want to guarantee an unforgettable time on the slopes – book your ski holiday with Club Med. From the fantastic mountains of Japan to the incredible slopes of Europe, we have something for everyone.

Our all-inclusive ski resorts come equipped with an array of amenities and activities, perfect for all ski levels and affinities.