The non-skier’s guide to packing for a ski trip

Key takeaways

• Rent the skis, bring the good socks and leave the cotton at home.
• Layering beats bulky winter clothes every time.
• The best ski-trip outfit is warm, waterproof and easy to peel off in the lodge.
• Packing for après-ski in Aspen versus Vermont is a different sport.

From first chair to après-ski

Whether you’re hitting the slopes for the first time in Vermont or gearing up to try a black diamond run in Colorado, the anticipation of a ski trip is a surefire way to ease the winter blues. When it’s time to pack, remember that a bit of preparation can keep you from freezing out in the snow or overheating in the lodge. And there’s no need to spend your après-ski budget at the outdoor store — odds are, many essentials are already in your closet.

Before you break out your suitcase, bring on the layers

Layers should be at the top of your vacation packing list no matter where you’re headed. But the stakes are even higher when your destination involves skiing, since a below-freezing morning in Breckenridge can give way to a balmy afternoon by lunch. Layers are key to avoid underdressing without the need to lug around an overweight bag.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer

If there’s one thing to remember, it’s that cotton is not your friend on the slopes. Once it’s wet, it stays cold, and there’s no going back (unless it’s to your room.) Focus on breathable merino wool, silk and high-performance technical fabrics instead.

While layering up, it’s also important to consider the conditions of your destination. A sunny ski day in Tahoe may warrant lighter layers and sunglasses, but the damp, icy chill of Northeastern ski locales may demand handwarmers and thermal undergarments.

Insulate yourself from the elements

With your base layer as a foundation, it’s time to add layers to stay warm. Fleece or lighter down jackets help trap warmth without trapping yourself in a self-induced sauna. With middle and outer layers, it’s important to remember that skiing is a physical activity and overheating is common. Prioritize gear that’s easy to take on and off, depending on the weather and your body temperature.

Finish things off with a sturdy waterproof outer shell or ski jacket. When choosing the perfect outer shell, be realistic about your level of expertise. Think you’re likely to spend as much time on your seat (or side or front or back) as your skis? Then waterproofing is a must.

Don’t forget your feet

You can’t just pack thick, all-purpose winter socks for the ski slopes. You’ll need to invest in over-the-calf ski socks. Beyond providing warmth, they are specifically designed to protect your shins from bruising as you press your weight into the rigid front of your ski boots all day.

Finding the balance between what to bring and what to rent

Packing for a winter trip is a balancing act between staying warm and not overpacking. And beyond the usual winter travel essentials, ski gear can get especially unwieldy. Thankfully, most destination ski towns are full of rental shops where you can find everything you need without committing to pricey new skis that you won’t use again until next year.

Rent what you don’t want to carry home

Unless you’ve decided that skiing is your new hobby, you probably don’t want to lug a pair of custom ski boots through the airport. The same goes for most pieces of bulky gear, like helmets or snowboards. Renting is a more cost-effective option that streamlines getting from Point A to Point B, without sacrificing your experience. Shops in destination ski towns will help you choose the right gear in the right size.

Bring or buy items that are worth calling your own

Remember, this probably won’t be your last winter vacation. Even if your next snowy adventure is looking more like Manhattan than Mammoth Mountain, the same rules of layering and outerwear still apply. Go ahead and invest in a few winter essentials that you’ll be excited to wear season after season. Packing will be even easier the next time around.

While it makes sense to rent bulky, specialized equipment like skis, poles and a helmet, you might want to draw a hard line when it comes to softer gear. Do you really want to slide your hands into a pair of rental gloves that a stranger just sweat in for eight hours the day before?

What to wear in the lodge

Ski lodges have a distinct rhythm. By late afternoon, gloves and helmets pile up near fireplaces, while skiers crowd around heavy wooden tables to sip hot drinks and stretch sore legs. This is your moment of recovery before heading back to the mountain or returning to your room to freshen up before exploring the town.

While you’re getting ready for your next move, you’ll want to prioritize warmth, but it’s important not to overdo it. You’ve put your body through a workout, and lodges can get hot. Bring a fresh pair of socks to provide your feet with a little comfort, slip-on shoes to release the weight of your boots, leggings or joggers to shed the ski pants and a fleece top to stay cozy.

Beyond what you wear, you’ll want to pack comfort items like water bottles, moisturizers, books, headphones or even a deck of cards to maximize your moment of calm in the lodge. You’ve earned it after proving yourself on the slopes all day.

Après-ski in practical style

Embarking on a ski trip isn’t all about the skiing itself. Just as you typically wouldn’t head to a swanky restaurant right after a run, you wouldn’t want to head into town still sporting your sweaty thermal base layers and clunky ski pants. Every ski town has its own distinct après-ski vibe. The trick is to match the local aesthetic without letting heavy nighttime outfits completely take over your suitcase.

Dressing for alpine elegance in Aspen

Aspen, Colorado, is one most sought-after winter destinations in the U.S., where après-ski is just as much a part of the culture as the skiing itself. The local style is an elevated mountain chic. Designer labels are common, but quiet luxury rules the day. Pack more polished and understated outfits (think tailored cashmere sweaters) for dining, shopping and strolling.

Matching the scenery in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, bordering Nevada and California, is known for its stunning landscapes and lively, laid-back villages. The region has more casual, West Coast sensibilities than Aspen. While you’ll still want to ditch the ski pants to enjoy the numerous restaurants, bars, breweries and boutiques, you can dress down in jeans and a flannel shirt or sweater.

Keeping it classic in the Northeast

New England destinations like Stowe, Vermont, can be more traditional and cozier than their Western counterparts. To avoid looking like you’re boarding the chairlift during your night out, lean into the classics. Dark jeans, heavy textured knits like fisherman sweaters and weatherproof duck boots are perfect for a night of drinking cider by a roaring fire.

Make the most of the mountains

Whether you’re looking for the coziest lodge or most adrenaline-filled slopes, booking with Citi Travel using an eligible Citi^® credit card lets you earn ThankYou^® Points on hotels, flights, car rentals and attractions. Apply to become a Citi cardmember today, or log in to your account to lock in that itinerary and start layering up.

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.

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