What to Think About When You Are Packing

1. Waterproofs: ski jacket and salopettes
These are absolutely essential. A good, waterproof ski jacket and salopettes will keep you warm and dry on the mountain.
Tip: If you are tight on space, wear your ski jacket to travel. It saves room in your suitcase and keeps you warm on transfers.

2. Boots and helmet
If this is your first ski trip, you may be hiring boots and a helmet in resort. If you have invested in your own, they will take up a good portion of your baggage allowance, so pack them carefully.

• Ski boots can go in a dedicated boot bag (often counted as ski equipment), or inside your suitcase.
• Save space by stuffing boots with ski socks and other soft items.
• Pack goggles inside your helmet for extra protection, again padded with soft items.
• Some travellers like to carry helmets in hand luggage. Be aware that some airlines no longer allow helmets to be clipped to the outside of bags; they must fit inside your cabin bag, so always check before you travel.

3. Base layers
Base layers are the key to staying warm and comfortable, and you will adjust how many you wear depending on the time of year and the temperatures.

Aim for:

• Long-sleeved thermal tops
• Thermal leggings
• Fleeces or lightweight jumpers

Merino wool or good synthetic base layers work best as they wick away moisture. Try to avoid cotton, as it holds on to sweat and can leave you feeling cold.

4. Ski socks
I recommend one pair of ski socks for each day on the slopes. Look for moisture-wicking, knee-high ski socks designed specifically for skiing. They will help prevent blisters and keep your feet warm without being too bulky.

5. Gloves
A good, waterproof pair of ski gloves is essential and a spare pair is a great idea, especially for children.

For younger skiers:

• Choose gloves that can be attached to their wrists or clipped together with a string threaded through their jacket.
• Gloves are easily lost on the slopes and can be expensive to replace in resort.

6. Neck warmer or snood
A neck warmer or snood is invaluable when the wind picks up or it starts to snow. It can be pulled up over the face for extra protection and is easier to ski in than a long scarf.

7. Hand warmers
On very cold days, hand warmers can make all the difference. Whether you choose single-use packs or rechargeable options, they are small, light and are very welcome on chairlifts.

8. A gilet
A lightweight, insulated gilet is perfect for an extra layer of warmth, especially if you plan to sit outside for lunch or enjoy a bit of après ski on a sunny terrace.

9. Goggles
Visibility on the mountain is crucial:

• All-weather goggles are ideal for beginners.
• Goggles with interchangeable lenses suit more experienced skiers who want to adjust to different light conditions.

They also offer better protection from wind and snow than sunglasses alone.

10. The little extras
Do not forget:

• Sunglasses for bright days and resort wandering
• Tissues for cold noses
• Lip balm with SPF
• High factor sunscreen for your face and any exposed skin (the sun is strong at altitude, even on cloudy days)

11. Snow boots and cosy accessories
Off the slopes, snow boots are incredibly useful for walking around resort, especially in icy or slushy conditions. Pack:

• Snow boots with good grip
• A warm hat
• Everyday gloves (separate from your ski gloves)

12. Evening wear and swimwear
Ski resorts tend to be relaxed in the evenings, so think comfortable rather than formal:

• Casual clothes for dinner and relaxing back at your hotel or chalet
• Swimwear if you are staying somewhere with a pool, spa or hot tub, which is a lovely way to soothe tired legs after a day on the mountain