Ultimate Packing Guide on What To Take Skiing From the Plane to the Slopes

 

You’ve been counting down to your ski trip for months, and now the time to pack is finally here. So the question is, what to take on a ski trip? Packing for your ski holiday may seem like a mammoth task, whether you’ve got new gear to buy or you’re grappling with airline baggage allowance restrictions. But fear not, our ultimate guide on what to take skiing is here, so read on for all you need to know! 

Suitcase Essentials for Your Ski Trip

What to take on your ski trip will revolve largely on what you wear whilst skiing and then what you’ll wear around that. Not forgetting other useful things and essentials too, but more on those later. 

To ensure you have everything you need for any time of day, we’ve broken down what you’ll need to take skiing clothes wise into three key areas: 

• Ski Clothing & Outwear
• Ski Gear and Equipment
• Apres-Ski and Off-Mountain Clothing

Ski Clothing & Outerwear

Base Layers & Thermals: To help you stay warm and dry, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like Merino Wool from brands like Smartwool, Icebreaker, or Under Armour.

Mid-Layers for Warmth: A good mid-layer is essential for the colder winter months. As the seasons change, you may opt for a light midlayer but we always recommend adding insulation with fleece or down layers; The North Face, Patagonia, and Arc’teryx offer great options. 

Outer Layers – Jackets & Trousers: Invest in waterproof and breathable options from Helly Hansen, Columbia, or Burton. 

Pay attention to if your jacket is “water resistant” or “waterproof”. A good waterproof jacket is worth invaluable in heavy snowfall. Waterproof ratings are measured in hydrostatic head (e.g., 10,000mm+), with higher numbers meaning better defense against moisture.

Also keep an eye for ski jacket essentials like a snow skirt and ski pass pocket! 

Ski Gear and Equipment

If you’re bringing your own ski gear and equipment, here’s a run down of what you’ll need. 

Ski Boots & Bindings: 

Ensure a perfect fit for comfort and control. If it’s your first time buying ski equipment, it’s always a good idea to speak to a specialist to get fitted and find the best equipment for your requirements, even if you buy online elsewhere afterwards. Brands like Salomon, Atomic, and Rossignol are reliable choices. 

Ski Helmet & Goggles: 

If you’re buying your own ski helmet and goggles, prioritise safety and visibility with high-quality gear from Smith, Giro, or Oakley. 

Skis, Poles, or Snowboard: 

Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, invest in well-made equipment. K2 and Volkl are excellent for skis and poles, while Burton is a top pick for snowboards.

If you decide to rent your equipment over buying, there’s always usually a good selection of ski hire shops in the resort and you’ll be able to get everything you need directly from them. 

If you’re staying with us at Ski Basics, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to recommended ski rental shops in Meribel. You’ll also be eligible for exclusive discounts as a Ski Basics guest! 

To avoid missing out, we recommend arranging your ski equipment ahead of arrival, particularly during busy periods like the school holidays.

If you’re buying your own, check out our guide for buying skis for all you need to know on finding the perfect pair! 

 

Apres-Ski and Off-Mountain Clothing

More often than not, you’ll head straight to apres ski in your ski gear but you’ll want to pack a few essentials like a wooly hat and sunglasses. Similarly you’ll want to pack some casual clothing for back at your accommodation or out in the town in the evening. 

Apres ski and off mountain clothes to bring with you include: 

Casual Outerwear: Pack jeans, casual jumpers, and tops for evenings out in the resort.

Comfortable Clothing: Perfect for relaxing around the chalet, especially after a day on the slopes.

Waterproof/Practical Footwear: Ideal for evenings in town or a day off the slopes—opt for sturdy, weather-appropriate shoes.

Slippers: Essential for chalet or apartment stays; you won’t want to be in ski boots all evening.

Flip-Flops: Handy if your accommodation has a pool or spa facilities.

Woolly Hat: Great for après-ski or chilly evenings outdoors.

Gloves: Lightweight gloves are perfect for evenings out when ski gloves feel too bulky.

Snood/Scarf: A versatile piece to keep you warm, whether on the slopes or at après-ski.

Sunglasses: A must for sunny afternoons, ideal for relaxing outdoors at après-ski instead of goggles.

Important Documents

As we all know, there’s nothing more important when it comes to what to take on a ski trip (or on any holiday for that matter), than your passport and essential travel documents. Here they are along with some other important bits to remember:

Passport: Ensure it’s valid for your trip and easy to access when needed whilst travelling.

Travel Documents: Boarding passes (printed or digital) and any booking confirmations for flights, transfers, or accommodation.

Insurance Documents: Keep a copy of your travel insurance policy or ensure you have digital access for emergencies.

Cash: Bring some Euros for things like tips, small purchases, or places that don’t accept cards.

Driving Licence: Essential if you’re hiring a car or just in the event that you need additional ID.

EHIC/GHIC Card: If travelling within Europe, carry this for access to healthcare.

 

Electronics and Chargers

In today’s world, electronics and chargers are essential. With boarding passess and important documents on our phones and other devices, you don’t want to get caught out! 

Phone & Charger: For communication, navigation, and travel documents.

Portable Power Bank: Useful for keeping devices charged on the go.

Universal Travel Adapter: If travelling abroad, ensure your electronics are compatible with local outlets.

Headphones: Perfect for flights, transfers, or relaxing in the evenings.

Camera/GoPro: Capture your best moments on the slopes or at après-ski.

Laptop/Tablet: Optional, but useful for entertainment or staying connected.

Ski Gadget Chargers: Remember chargers for things like cables for heated gloves, cameras, or GPS watches.

 

Toiletries (Especially Sun Cream)

You’ll be able to pick up most toiletries once you arrive at the resort, either at a supermarket or pharmacy. But to save money and precious holiday time, it’s always useful to plan ahead and pack your own, including things such as: 

High SPF Sun Cream: A must-have, no matter the weather, to protect your skin on the slopes.

Lip Balm: Opt for one with SPF to prevent chapping and sun damage.

Hand Cream: Keep your hands hydrated after a day in the cold or whilst out on the slopes. 

The Essentials: Pack your usual toiletries, but if you’re staying in a hotel or with us at Ski Basics, you’ll enjoy complimentary toiletries like body wash, lotion and shampoo and conditioner for added convenience.

Backpack Essentials for the Slopes

Safety Gear

Generally speaking, if you’re sticking to pisted slopes and abiding by mountain regulations such as not skiing on closed pistes, there is little chance you will need any safety gear beyond your mobile phone and essentials like your helmet and goggles. However, if you plan to head off piste, you should without a doubt take the relevant safety equipment with you such as: 

Mobile Phone: Always ensure you can get in contact with your group or emergency services in the event of an emergency. 

Avalanche Transceiver, Shovel & Probe: These are vital for locating and digging out someone buried in an avalanche. The transceiver helps rescuers track you down, while the shovel and probe are crucial for quick recovery.

Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife: Again, only really needed if you’re heading off-piste or ski-touring as most lift stations have tools for any quick equipment fixes or adjustments. However, if you are, a multi-tool or pocket knife and be handy for quick fixes or emergencies on the mountain.

On-the-Go Essentials

Debit/Credit Cards or Cash: It’s always best to plan to carry some cash or cards with you whilst out on the mountain. Even if you’d prefer not to take your full wallet or purse, it’s useful to bring along a couple of cards and some cash for places that don’t take cards or with poor card machine signals. 

Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: Be sure to stay hydrated whilst out on the slopes! 

Snacks: It’s great to pack some high-energy snack options like protein bars or nuts for emergencies or a quick boost on the chairlift to keep you going all day long. 

If you’re staying with us at Ski Basics in one of our Plus+ service catered chalets, you’ll enjoy a selection of ski snacks to pop in your ski jacket pocket each day. 

Piste Maps

In addition to planning a rough route of where you plan to go, it’s always useful to pack a ski map before heading out. Be sure to pick up the correct map for the area you’re skiing. For example, here in Meribel you’ll have either a Meribel Valley Piste Map or the full Three Valleys Map  if you plan to ski from Meribel to Courchevel or elsewhere across the 600km ski area. 

Packing Tips

Opt for Compressible Layers

Choose lightweight, compressible layers like down jackets or fleece that can easily be packed down, saving space without compromising on warmth.

For non–compressionable items like your helmet if you have your own, save space by packing things like ski socks into your helmet before it goes into your bag. 

Use Compression Bags

Maximise your packing space by using compression bags for bulky items like jackets or your scallopets. They help reduce bulk and keep everything organised.

Wear Your Bulkiest Items

Whether you’re flying or travelling by car or train, wear your ski jacket on the journey to save space in your luggage. You’re unlikely to need another jacket whilst you’re away so it saves bringing one you won’t wear while keeping your suitcase lighter. 

In the past, you would often be able to take ski boots as hand luggage. However, with more stringent underseat hand luggage restrictions in now place for most airlines, this can often result in additional charges so always check the baggage restrictions before travelling. 

Ready to hit the slopes? 

Of course you are! But, if you’re yet to book your next ski holiday or you’re already planning for the one after that, check out our beautiful Meribel chalets and their remaining availability for the coming season. If you’re all packed and ready to join us in, why not learn more about things to do in the Meribel area and get organised by booking your ski lessons or perhaps even planning which of Meribel’s incredible restaurants you want to visit whilst you’re here! 

 

If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in contact and a member of the team would be pleased to hear from you.