If you’re heading out onto the continent for your very first ski trip, then packing can make all the difference to the quality of your experience. Fail to bring the essentials, and you could be forced to pay over the odds for them at the resort itself.
Let’s look at exactly what’s required.
Ski Clothing
Skiing requires very specialised attire. Generally speaking, you’ll be wearing three layers at all times. These include the tight-fitting base layer, which is there to keep you dry and to wick up sweat.
Then there are mid-layers like fleece jackets, which provide an additional layer of insulation. On top of these, jackets and salopettes are worn, to guard against water and wind.
As well as all of these things, you might also wear gloves, neck gaiters, and thick socks. The socks are particularly important, as they’ll effect the size of shoe you end up wearing.
Ski Gear
Now that you’re dressed appropriately, the right equipment is essential for ski holidays.
You might elect to rent a set of skis, boots, and poles – or you could buy them outright. Since this is your first trip, and you might not be sure what you’re looking for (or whether the sport is right for you), renting might be considered the default option.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions in the rental shop. Your skis should be slightly shorter than the average, since this will make them easier to handle. Your poles should be tall enough that you can hold them while standing upright with your elbows at right angles.
The boots are almost certainly the most important of the three pieces of equipment. Take the time to pick out a size and style that’s comfortable for you – and don’t be afraid to go back and swap them if you find that they aren’t a good fit.
Ski helmets can prevent you from being seriously injured, so you must get one that fits properly. Ensure to add a good pair of goggles to shield you from glare.
Finally, you might consider a small backpack. Bear in mind, however, that your backpack might end up getting in the way when board a chairlift – so make sure that it’s small enough to move around.
Apres-Ski Essentials
Of course, you’re not going to be spending all of your time on the slope. Make sure that you pack the right clothing for apres-ski activities. This might include all of the things that you’d normally wear on a city break during winter. If there are upmarket restaurants that you’d like to visit, then bear in mind that all of the normal style rules still apply, here.
When selecting footwear, you might assume that you’re going to be walking on ice and snow for much of the time. Avoid smooth soles and high heels, and make sure that they’re well insulated.
If the resort has a swimming pool that you’re thinking of using, then you’ll want to make sure that you have swimwear. The same applies to hot tubs and spa facilities.