Winter sports are a ton of fun ― if you’re prepared for the day ahead.
If you are not prepared, skiing and snowboarding can actually be a bit miserable. You risk getting wet and being freezing cold, when instead you could be taking in the mountain’s incredible views and having a blast with friends.
Several editors at The Huffington Post love to ski, so we assembled the ultimate packing list. Below is everything you need to pack for a day on the slopes, plus little tricks to keep you even more comfortable and warm.
Base Layer
Your first layer should keep you warm, and ideally wick away sweat to keep you dry.
The best bet is to invest in a moisture-wicking fabric for your base layer. If you'd prefer to use what you have, yoga pants, leggings or standard workout pants will do.
Ski Pants
Pick a waterproof, comfortable pair with good reviews. One editor also swears by suspenders to prevent you from having to hoist your pants up every so often.
Advertisement
Mid-Layer
Find a nice, light puffer jacket. You'll be thankful for the extra layer when you're on the mountain, and it's also an easy piece to wear around the lodge.
Ski Jacket or Shell
Find a jacket that's wind-proof and waterproof. The more pockets the better. Amazon has hundreds of options in a wide price range; read the reviews and find the one you think works best.
Ski Socks
Pro skiers will tell you that when people complain about foot pain while wearing a ski boot, it's likely they're wearing the wrong sock. A thin, lightweight ski sock is much more comfortable than a thick one.
Advertisement
Ski Goggles and Face Mask
These are must-haves for anyone who plans to hit the mountain.
Helmet
Kids, adults, new skiers and professionals should be wearing a helmet on the mountain at all times. Some ski resorts even require it. But you don't have to buy and pack a helmet -- you can save space in your luggage if you need to by renting one when you arrive on the mountain.
Wireless Chips or Headphones
Once you're set with safety gear, take it to the next level with wireless chips that deliver audio to your helmet. Or pack a spare pair of headphones that you don't mind damaging, because they're likely to get wet.
Advertisement
Hat/Beanie
A nice hat keeps you warm on the mountain. It also helps you look cool at the lodge during après ski activities. Cheers!
Mittens
Pack warm, waterproof mittens or gloves. If you want to take it to next level, wear touch screen gloves underneath them to stay warm when you're using your phone or buckling into gear.
Hand Warmers
Hand warmers keep your fingers toasty in the coldest conditions. You'll need several though, since they only deliver a few hours of truly good heat. Bring toe warmers to slip in your boots, too.
Advertisement
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
It's easy to forget skin protection when you're headed to a cold destination, but it couldn't be more important. The higher altitude and low humidity can significantly dry out your skin. And not only is there less atmosphere to absorb the sun's rays at higher altitudes, but skiers absorb even more UV rays because fresh snow is a particularly good reflector of the sun, according to the World Health Organization.
A compact, two-in-one moisturizer is best to store in a pocket and apply throughout the day.
A compact, two-in-one moisturizer is best to store in a pocket and apply throughout the day.
Eye Drops
Pack eye drops if you are prone to dry eyes or wear contacts. You are rushing down a mountain with wind in your face, after all.
Snacks
4kodiak via Getty Images
Granola bars, beef jerky, a handful of nuts -- these are the kinds of snacks you want to store in your pocket before getting in line for the ski lift. Refreshments at ski lodges are known to be overpriced, and having snacks to tide you over means you don't need to get off the mountain to find something to eat. More time in the powder equals more fun.
Advertisement
Cash/Credit Card
loongar via Getty Images
Remember your wallet. There's nothing like après ski drinks with friends after a long, fun day on the slopes.
Related
Before You Go
LOADINGERROR LOADING
