What to Pack for a Ski Trip (to look stylish and be comfortable)

While hitting the slopes on vacation is exhilarating and fun, packing for a ski trip can be daunting.  My husband and I love to ski, and we have spent a lot of time on the slopes.  We enjoy travel and like to incorporate skiing adventures into our family vacations.  

This year my family will spend a week in Breckenridge, Colorado, so it has me thinking about what needs to be bought and packed.  I have curated a list of must-haves for every woman to look chic and stylish on the mountain, but be warm and comfortable at the same time.

It's the middle of winter and you're on a mountain that is 9,000 feet in altitude.  It can be brutally cold!  I find that wearing layers is the most effective way to stay warm and comfortable when in the harsh elements.

Thinking of ski clothes, the first thing that comes to mind is likely a jacket and snow pants.  But really, what you put underneath those outer layers is almost more important.

Base Layer

A good base layer should be made of wool or synthetic material that will wick moisture away from the skin.  Despite the fact that it can be very cold, skiing works up a sweat, and that sweat can make you even colder if it sits on your body.  These base layers are all made of fabrics that will move the sweat away so that you stay comfortable, but they also look stylish and can be worn on their own for lounging at the ski lodge apres ski. 

Mid-Layer

I like to add a mid-layer on top of my base layer for added warmth.  If it's a colder day, I will wear a long-sleeved half-zip pullover.  On a more moderate day, a cozy, cute vest makes a good mid-layer.  

Jacket

Though the base and mid-layers are important for comfort and warmth, the jacket is what people see.  A fun pop of color adds interest to a bulky jacket, but black can be slimming and timeless.  When choosing a jacket, look for one that is water-resistant or waterproof.

I recommend a jacket with lots of pockets for money, i.e., lip balm, sunscreen and other necessities.  As well, look for a jacket with underarm zippers.  These provide a ventilation system; when you work up a sweat and get hot, the zippers can be unzipped to let air in.  Once cooled down, zip them back up to stay toasty.  

Snow Pants

Let's face it, snow pants aren't always the most flattering piece of clothing.  There are two types: those that tuck into the ski boot and those that go over the boot.  Though the type that tuck into the boot tend to fit like a skinny jean and look more flattering, the ones that go over the boot are usually warmer.  Style, however, need not be sacrificed!  I've found some flattering snow pants for either preference.  

Accessories - Boots, Hats, Goggles, Socks, and Mittens

Just when you think you've packed everything, don't forget the accessories.  Boots and hats are important for travel to and from the lodge.

I personally am a strong advocate for safety, so I wear a helmet when skiing (most people do these days!), and I prefer goggles over sunglasses, as they keep the wind from blowing in my eyes and making my eyes water.

Warm socks made of wicking fabric (wool or synthetic material) are a must so that your feet and toes stay warm in the ski boots, and I prefer mittens over gloves, as hands stay warmer in mittens.  I also look for mittens with straps that go around the wrists so that they stay attached when I take them off.  Makes for less chance of dropping one off the ski lift!  

Skincare and Cosmetics

I don't wear much makeup when skiing, but there are three must-haves.  Sunscreen is the first.  You must, must, must wear sunscreen when skiing (and every other day of the year as well).  Since I'm not wearing foundation when skiing, I like to wear a tinted sunscreen that will even out my complexion and give a tiny bit of coverage.  The second must-have is lip balm that contains sunscreen.  The wind and cold air dry out the lips very quickly, and they need to be protected from the sun as well.  Finally, I prefer to wear a coat of waterproof mascara.  It's the one cosmetic that I rarely leave the house without. 

Apres Ski

There's nothing like hitting up the bar at the ski lodge after a long day of skiing and ordering a spiked hot cocoa (I love peppermint schnapps in mine).  I prefer to wear something comfortable and chic, like a long cardigan over a long-sleeved tee, a fun necklace, warm fleece leggings and snuggly shearling boots.  

Swimsuits

Last, but not least, don't forget your swimsuit!  There's nothing more relaxing than a soak in a hot tub at the end of a long day of skiing.  

Skiing can be a great adventure and a wonderful vacation choice.  I hope this list helps make packing for your next ski trip a little easier.  Tell me: where do you love to ski?

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