Ski trip packing list: what do you bring for a week?
Last updated: October 2026 · By Slope Goons
For a week-long ski trip, pack 3 base layer sets, 1 mid-layer, 1 ski jacket, 1 ski pants, 3–4 pairs of ski socks, gloves, goggles, helmet, and a ski mask or balaclava. Slope Goons recommends keeping it to one checked bag — ski kit is bulky, and most resorts have laundry. Don't overpack clothing you'll never wear.
The complete ski trip packing list for a week
| Category | Item | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| On the slopes | Ski jacket | 1 |
| Ski or snowboard pants | 1 | |
| Base layer (top + bottom) | 3 sets | |
| Mid-layer (fleece or insulated) | 1 | |
| Accessories | Ski gloves or mittens | 1 pair (+ spare if heavy user) |
| Ski goggles | 1 (+ spare lens if possible) | |
| Ski socks | 3–4 pairs | |
| Balaclava or ski mask | 1 | |
| Equipment | Ski helmet | 1 (or rent) |
| Ski boots | 1 pair (or rent) | |
| Skis or snowboard | Rent at resort | |
| Après/evenings | Snow boots | 1 pair |
| Casual warm pants | 2 | |
| Casual tops or jumpers | 3–4 | |
| Smarter outfit for dinner | 1 (optional) | |
| Essentials | Sunscreen SPF 30+ | Plenty — buy extra at resort |
| Lip balm with SPF | 1–2 | |
| Muscle recovery cream | 1 |
The two items most skiers leave at home and regret
Sunscreen is the most forgotten item — UV radiation at altitude is significantly more intense than at sea level, and snow reflects up to 85% of UV rays back at your face. An SPF 30 applied once in the morning isn't enough for a full day. The second most regretted omission is a ski mask or balaclava. Once you're warm and comfortable in jacket and boots, the gap around your face — goggles to collar — becomes the remaining cold spot. It costs less than a ski day pass and fixes it permanently.
Which Slope Goons product is right for you?
- LegoFace Ski Mask — packs flat, weighs almost nothing; the one face-protection item that earns its place in any ski bag
- Frosty Face Ski Mask — full fleece coverage that works from first run to après terrace without a change
- The Slope Stitches Balaclava — takes up the space of a pair of socks; goes in last and does the most work on cold days
Frequently asked questions
How many ski socks should I pack for a week?
3–4 pairs is plenty. Ski socks are worn one pair per day, but they dry quickly overnight when aired out. Most resorts have laundry facilities for longer trips.
Should I bring my own ski helmet or rent one?
Bring your own if you ski regularly. Rental helmets are well-maintained but you get whatever fits — your own helmet fits perfectly and saves €8–12 per day. For a first trip, renting is fine.
What toiletries do you need on a ski trip?
Lip balm with SPF, high-factor sunscreen (SPF 30+ minimum — UV is intense at altitude), and a good moisturiser for dry mountain air. Ski resorts have pharmacies but prices are higher than in the valley.
Can I fit a ski trip's luggage in a carry-on?
Unlikely for a full week. Ski boots alone take most of the volume of a standard cabin bag. Most skiers check a bag or ship gear in advance. If flying, check your airline's ski equipment policy — some include it free.