Top 10 Must-Have Items for Your Next Ski Holiday

Oh, the annoyance of packing for a winter holiday. While going carry-on-only is always a goal, this is a much bigger challenge for a ski trip.

Here are some items that will make your packing job less of a bear, keep you comfortable on the hill, and eliminate some last-minute shopping at a resort.

1. Vacuum-sealed compression bags

   For bulky ski gear, wear what you can on the flight (ski coats, boots) and use vacuum bags to pack the rest. These vacuum-sealed compression bags are easy to use and effective in keeping your snow pants and heavier, bulky winter wear packed. Plus, there is something oddly satisfying about watching the bags shrink as you vacuum out the air.

   
   

2. Athletico Padded Two-Piece Ski and Boot Bag Combo

   

   If you’re bringing your skis, here’s an economical ski and boot bag combo that can save you the hassle and cost of renting gear while on vacation.

   
   

1. Fleece-Lined Leggings 

   

   Trade out your go-to yoga pants for a pair or two of fleece-lined leggings, and feel far more comfortable for fall or winter trips. These high-waisted leggings have pockets and can easily be worn underneath ski pants or on their own.

   
   

2. Merino Base Layer Thermal Leggings 

   

   If you need a base layer to wear underneath jeans, ski pants, etc. you cannot go wrong with these. They are warm, easy to pack, and very comfortable. 

   
   

3. Bring on the heat!

There is a seemingly unending array of battery-powered heated gear to keep you comfortable from head to toe while on your winter adventure. 

Heated Gloves

Heated Mittens

Heated Vest for Men

Heated Vest for Women

Heated Socks

Heated Thermal Underwear

6. Don’t forget the music

If you like to accompany your time on the slopes with a custom playlist, this Bluetooth wireless headband with built-in earphones can help keep you warm, fits easily under your helmet, and will stay in place. And you won’t worry about losing an AirPod or other earbuds. It also can be used as an eye mask.

7. Wireless Headphones

   

   But if you're serious about the sound quality, check out Outdoor Tech's Chips Ultra 2.0 Headphones. These truly wireless earpieces fit seamlessly under a helmet, have extensive battery life, pair easily, and come with a charging travel case.

   
   

8. Ski Goggles 

Light conditions can vary on the mountain — be prepared for low light or dazzling blue skies with goggles with interchangeable lenses. These options have magnetic lenses that make changing them a breeze. 

OutdoorMaster Heron Ski Goggles with 2 Lens, Frameless, Magnetic Interchangeable HD Toric Lens, OTG Snowboard Goggles

Powster Frameless Ski/Snowboard Goggles with Magnets Interchangeable Lenses

9. Ski or Snowboarding Helmet

   

   Protect your precious brain with a high-quality, comfortable helmet. While you can rent one on the hill, it's convenient to have your own. And you can decorate it with stickers from all your adventures!

   
   

10. Phone Leashes

    

    Polpo Phone Harness

    Pulpo Retractable Phone Harness

    Save yourself from anxiety when checking your texts on the chairlift with one of these handy phone harnesses. It fits a wide range of phones from 6.1 to 6.8 inches and can be worn as a lanyard or clipped inside a pocket using the attached carabiner. The harness is stretchy and designed not to impede on cameras, so they can snap that selfie without risking disaster.

    
    

And while the bigger items get more attention, do not forget mittens, hats, balaclavas, gators/neck coverings, and all the other pieces that will keep you warm and comfortable on the hill.