Packing for a ski trip is sometimes a daunting task. Not only can it take long, but it can be easy to forget an item or too, especially when your bulkier items take up the majority of your bag. The last thing you want is to forget something at home and not realize until you get to the lodge. To make the packing process a breeze, I’ve listed below a few essential items that you will want to bring along on your next trip.

Base Layering Items

Staying warm while facing the elements is crucial. The base layers of your skiing ensemble are a must-have. Be sure to layer with some merino wool tops and bottoms. These two base items are pretty easy to roll up, so you will be able to squeeze them into the smallest corner of your bag. Depending on how long your trip will be, you will want to take at least 1 to 2 pairs.

Ski Jacket

Arguably, one of the most important items you need to bring is a ski jacket. This should be a high-performance jacket that has a two-layer shell. This will protect you against the wind, and lock the heat in. Be sure that your jacket is waterproof, so you stay cozy and dry.

Mittens

A lot of skiers opt for gloves, but mittens do a better job at keeping your hands warm. Along with your mittens, bring a long a pair of glove liners. You won’t even be able to tell that the wind is hitting your hands.

Ski Pants

Limit yourself to two pairs of ski pants. You may feel the need to bring a long a third pair, but resist the urge! Two is the perfect number since you can wear one pair when the other pair is drying off. A favorite brand of mine is Columbia’s Bugaboo ski pants. These come in a variety of colors and you are sure to find one that goes perfectly with your ski jacket.

Fleeces

Fleeces are such a great item to have because of their versatility. One day you can wear them as base layer, and on a warmer day you can wear them on its own. They are also the perfect item to wear when lounging by the fire after a cold day on the slopes.