What to Pack for your Ski Trip

Skiing and snowboarding are sports that take us outdoors into the natural elements of mountain peaks and snow covered forests. When you’re outside, you’re at the mercy of the weather. It can be warm and sunny with bluebird skies one run and cloudy and snowy with a biting wind the next.

Winter weather has the potential to be nasty. Unexpected storms can bring snow, blizzards, whiteouts, wind, and frigid, cold air. It’s important to have the proper equipment and plenty of warm clothes.

To be able to survive and thrive in the constantly changing weather, it’s important to have the proper gear. Having a job on the mountain means you are subject to the elements every single day, all season long. If you’re out skiing the trees or leap frogging moguls, your body stays warm because you’re active, but if you’re tending lifts, it can be very chilly.

Winter requires lots of clothing to stay warm. Every skier and snowboarder knows that snow sports are gear intensive and gear requires space. Most seasonal accommodations in ski towns are a bit cramped. It’s hard to know what to bring.

It’s a challenge to find that perfect balance of stuff that you need and stuff that you should probably leave at home. If you pack properly, you’ll be prepared for winter and you’ll be ready to handle anything that nature throws your way.

Staying Warm

Frozen toes, fingers, and noses can ruin a day faster than anything. One of the best ways to stay warm is to layer your clothing so you can adjust your temperature easily. No winter wardrobe is complete without the following clothes to keep you warm and toasty…

• Long Underwear Tops and Bottoms
• Fleece Jackets
• Windproof Jacket
• Down Jacket or vest
• Heavy-duty ski socks
• Gloves
• Beanie
• Winter boots and shoes
• Yak Traks – a good idea for icy walks
• Jeans or pants

Having all of these things will keep you warm on the slopes and around town.

— View Ski Resort Job Postings —

Skiing Time

You need to pack for skiing and snowboarding. Be sure to bring…

• Waterproof Ski Jacket
• Waterproof Ski Pants
• Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens
• Ski helmet – they are warm and keep your noggin safe
• Neckwarmer
• Goggles or sunglasses
• Sunscreen – an absolute must in the mountains

It’s hard to hit the slopes without ski and snowboard gear. Many ski season veterans suggest bringing two pairs of skis or snowboards, just in case one breaks the night before an epic powder day. Everybody needs…

• Skis and Poles
• Snowboard
• Ski or snowboard boots
• Bindings
• Tuning gear if you want your gear to perform properly

Gear For Home

Most of your time will be spent on the slopes or at the après scene, but you will want to have a comfy home too. When you look for housing, it’s better to find a place that is furnished then you don’t have to deal with furniture. Depending on where you live, it would be smart to bring…

• Bedding – sheets, blankets, pillows
• Entertainment – books, video game systems, television
• Music – It’s a bonus both on the slopes and at home and
• Headphones – in case your roommate snores.
• Kitchen Stuff – plates, bowls, silverware, coffee pot
• Toiletries – Winter masks smells well, but don’t be that person without toiletries and towels

Housing can be cramped, but be sure to bring the basics.

Gear for Different Jobs

What gear you bring will depend on what type of winter work you do. People who work on the snow all day, such as lift operators, ski instructors, or ski patrol need more warm clothes because they might not be able to escape inside to warm up. Some jobs keep people inside more, such as food service, ticket sales, or marketing.

After you get hired, you’ll have a better idea of what things you’ll need to bring to your new ski resort home. Many jobs will require you to wear a uniform. If this is the case, the ski resort will supply your uniform. Other jobs will require you to wear professional attire. It’s easier to pack when you know what you’ll be doing.

The one thing you absolutely must have for your job is identification and work permits if necessary.

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By no means is this list complete. Pack what you need to pack so that you’re happy. Don’t pack a U-Haul full of gear for a single ski season. Remember that you can always buy things at retail stores or online once you arrive. Many ski industry positions even offer professional pricing on gear, which is a very nice perk of the industry.

If you’re getting antsy for ski season already, make sure you apply early and follow the timelines in the next section…