How to Carry On for a 4 Day Ski Trip
You’re going skiing? Yay you!!!! Skiing rocks. We typically do our family ski vacation in Beaver Creek, Colorado (well, my boys snowboard, and my daughter and I ski!) A ski trip can be an incredible experience, filled with amazing memories and adventure. But it can also be a giant headache if you don’t know what to pack for. As someone who prefers to carry on (hello, Air France, I’m looking at you for when you lost my luggage on my European adventure but taught me a very good lesson in always carrying on!) this is my culled down list and my ski packing list must haves.
You can sign up for my newsletter and get a downloadable ski trip packing list, too, but below are custom recommendations on exact things I pack. This should get you going especially if their is your first time skiing!
If you’re planning a trip to the slopes, you need to make sure that you have everything you need for a great time, but also only pack the essentials so that you can carry on. Here are some tips on what to pack and how to prepare for your four-day getaway:
You’ll want want the obvious warm layers such as sweaters or base layers, a pair of water-proof snow pants and gloves. But you’ll also want a bathing suit when you sit your sore tukus in the hot tub at night!
More than anything, if you’re staying at a place with a washer/dryer, I highly recommend packing less than you think you need of items. We typically pack two of things at the most, and wash one at night. I really don’t like to check bags on flights, so prefer to carry on. Because of that, I’m always looking for the most effective way to pack. So only packing the skiing essentials, and just the right ski clothing, I can make this happen. Note, we don’t own our own ski equipment. We rent ski boots, ski poles and our ski helmet so this list doesn’t account for those things.
Another reason to pack less, is that skiing means a lot of stuff. There’s hats, there’s face balaclavas, there’s hand warmers — there are so many accessories to bring! Do yourself a favor, and pack the basics in terms of clothes, and leave room for all the crap you’ll have to bring as well.
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Bogner
Ski Jacket
I love my Bogner Ski Waterproof Ski Jacket! It’s as warm as it is fashionable! Plus it can be worn off the slopes, too! The ‘Callie-D’ quilted jacket is made from moisture-wicking outer shell, insulated with down and has an adjustable two-way zip. So you can adjust the temperature when needed. The pockets are plentiful enough for ski lift passes, cell phones, chapstick and more! I wear a size 6 so that I can layer a sweater comfortably below – which is true to size.
Bogner Fire + Ice
Ski Pants
A well fitting pair of ski pants is a must have and the Erin Snow ‘Zola’ pants super cute! They’re made from water-resistant shell enhanced with stretch to allow a full range of movement. You’ll love the over-the-boot fit and the zipped cuffs underpinned with elasticated gaiters, which prevent snow from getting in. These come in a variety of colors, so you can pick one that will go with your ski jacket though the white is so ski chic!
Ski Socks
The most important thing you pack is a great pair of wool ski socks! My favorites are these high-grade merino wool winter sports socks from SmartWool. They have an improved fit to minimize sock shifting and come in a variety of colors and sizes so you can pick the one that works best for you! Plus they are constructed with elasticated gaiters to prevent snow from getting in. They’re perfect for keeping your feet dry and warm so you can stay focused on conquering the slopes!
Sorel
Boots
Two HUGE thumbs up for these ultra-comfortable, ultra-warm, ultra-stylish boots! I’m a huge fan! One of the most important items in your ski gear is a comfortable, durable and waterproof pair of winter boots. Sorel’s Kinetic Breakthru Conquest hiker boots are crafted of suede and feature leather trim, a waterproof shell, and hefty rubber sole. These are perfect for skiing as they have great grip on ice, won’t slip in snow and will keep your feet toasty warm all day! BIG fan! You’ll love!
Pom Beanie
Don’t forget a fashionable pom-pom hat to complete your apres ski look! It will keep you warm and looking stylish after a long day of skiing! Plus it makes for great pictures. I love this one from ShopBop in gray that can be worn on or off the slopes.
Under Armour
Cold Gear Base Layer Top
I love my Under Armour Base Layer Top. They make quality base layer options built for even the coldest days. It’s made from a dual-layer fabric with an ultra-warm, brushed interior and a smooth, fast-drying exterior. It wicks sweat & dries really fast so you can stay comfortable no matter how hard you ski. Plus it has mesh underarm panels for added ventilation where you need it and a mock neck construction for added coverage & warmth. It’s comes in three colors – so you can pick one that works with your style!
Under Armour
Cold Gear Base Layer Leggings
Don’t forget your most important item: a base layer that keeps you warm without bulk or riding up. This Dual-Layer fabric base layer has an ultra-warm, brushed interior & a smooth, fast-drying exterior to ensure you stay dry and focused all season long! I recommend sizing down to be sure it’s nice and fitted. I’m a fan of this brand for keeping warm in the cold! I wear these instead of traditional long underwear because I think they breathe better.
Perfect Moments
Sweater
This is a sweater I bought last year. It’s such a best seller that they released it again this year! When the slopes are closed, get your Apres Ski on in this Perfect Moment Star Dust Turtleneck Sweater. It’s an absolute essential for stylishly facing the cold temperatures and snow in high altitudes. It features a star pattern knit from soft merino wool with a rib-knit turtleneck, long sleeves and rib-knit cuffs and hem. And the best part? Hand wash – no dry cleaning needed!
Perfect Moments
Sweater
Another sweater that I couldn’t resist sharing. Positively love the throw back vibe of this SKI sweater and the colors! The stripe on the sleeve also makes this one fun sweater to wear sipping cocktails at the end of a long day shredding the slopes!
Pocket Warmers
One of our families ski essentials are hand markers. The first thing we do when we wake up is to shake them and get them activated for the cold weather! We put them inside our ski jacket pockets and also into our gloves.
Ugg
Sweater
Pack a cozy cardigan! This is a good idea especially if you’re sharing a house with someone, and pretty much want to be in your pajamas, but need to be appropriately dressed! This relaxed-fit cardigan with a plush hand-feel is perfect for après skiing. It has an attached hood, long sleeves, and a button placket for easy layering. The curved hem adds just the right amount of movement. Plus it’s made from recycled polyester so you can feel good about your purchase.
Ugg
Joggers
You can’t go wrong with UGG’s Haydn jogger-style lounge pants. They are made from velvet fleece for a heavenly-soft feel, and feature an adjustable drawstring waist and ribbed cuffs that give you a full range of movement. Throw these on with the cardigan and slippers and you have the perfect end-of-day chill outfit!
Ugg
Slippers
Pack the ultimate comfort item: Dakota slippers. These are my personal favorites! You can live in these for a full weekend and never have to take them off! Crafted with soft wool and a rubber sole that travels both indoors and out with ease, the best-selling Dakota is sure to be your new go-to favorite. Water-resistant leather upper, round toe and slip-on style make this a versatile piece that you can wear all winter long. With UGGpure™ wool lining and insole plus a molded rubber sole, these slippers are sure to keep your feet feeling cozy even when the cold air hits.
Bathing Suit
In addition to your ski clothes and snow boots, don’t forget to pack a bathing suit for when you soak your sore muscles in the hot tub at the end of every night (while sipping a glass of wine!) This super cute bathing suit is a great option because it has a surprise neckline, and the banding and straps give you a great figure! A little snow-white color is so cute, too!
The North Face
Gloves
A great pair of gloves are a must-have because who wants cold hands?! These women’s Montana North Face Ski Gloves. These are a must-have for skiing and come fully redesigned with updated Heatseeker™ Eco insulation, DryVent™ inserts, durable faux leather palm overlays, and more. The wrist leash allows you to keep track of them when not in use and the exterior nose wipe is a much-needed addition on icy, windy days. They will keep your hands warm and toasty all day long!
Smith
Ski Goggles
My go-to ski goggles are from Smith Optics. This particular style has a 222mm lens width and the MAG lens change system uses magnets for quick, easy lens changes. Plus they have the QuickFit strap adjustment system with clip buckle so you can get the perfect fit and adjust on the fly as needed. The ChromaPop™, spherical Carbonic-X lens with TLT Optics and 5X antifog inner lens provide the best visibility for bright sunny days and low light. The Responsive Fit™ Frame design adjusts to your face for a precise, comfortable fit, so that you won’t have any fogging on those cold days! Plus the three-layer DriWix face foam wicks moisture for a fog-free fit. I love the ultrawide, silicone-backed strap that helps keep your goggles in place and makes them helmet compatible.
Elta MD
Tinted Sunscreen
Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen! This one is great, too, because it’s tinted so you get some coverage. EltaMD UV Elements Facial Sunscreen is an oil-free tinted moisturizing base with mineral-based sun protection. This formula contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for water resistant and long lasting coverage that won’t leave you feeling greasy or sticky. Fragrance free too, which makes it great for sensitive skin! Keep your skin protected from the harmful rays on the slopes – it’s the best way to make sure you keep looking young and fresh all winter long!
rms beauty
Hydrating Tinted Daily Lip Balm
Always have a good, hydrating lip tint on hand. This chapstick comes in pretty tinted colors, has Jojoba Oil: Rich to nourish and hydrate, Cocoa Seed Butter with vitamin to provide relief for dryness and Candelilla Wax that protect while helping to retain optimal moisture!
Apple
AirTag
Two super useful options here: one, use this AirTag in your suitcase if you’re checking to track it, or two: put it in your ski jacket so your friends can find you on the slopes! Use the App to easily your luggage with the Find My app. We also put an AirTag into our kids ski jackets so we can find them on the mountain!
Mother
The Looker Jeans
For those of you looking for something to wear with your après ski sweater, I highly recommend these skinny jeans. Mother makes *the* most comfortable jeans! Crafted of stretch cotton-blend denim, these jeans are designed with faded legs and subtle whiskering. They look amazing with your winter boots and pom-pom hat! Plus they have the perfect amount of stretch!
Tylenol
Avoid altitude sickness by drinking a ton of water and taking Tylenol! Bring a water bottle on the plane and start chugging the second you board. Pro tip: the high altitude takes a toll on my tummy, so it’s a great idea to also bring Tums and Gas X (aren’t I super fun?!)
And remember, comfort is key when you’re in the great outdoors – make sure you’re dressed for the weather and your active lifestyle. Pack accordingly and have a safe, warm, and enjoyable winter vacation! Happy packing and have a blast skiing!
Skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter season, and the clothes are the most important things to plan for the weather conditions! From sweaters to jeans, slippers to bathing suits, gloves and even AirTags – you don’t need as much as you think. You just need good stuff that keeps you warm!
Be sure to sign up here to get my free download with my entire ski trip checklist emailed to you with the other items that I didn’t cover like sunglasses, lip balm, a neck gaiter and more! Sign up for the Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List here!
About Kelly
I have been featured in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and appeared on morning shows across the country as well as being an Amazon A-List live streamer. I’m an avid traveler! My readers love my easy and achievable ideas to incorporate the blue/gray/gal signature style into their own lives! Click here to read more.
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