Last Updated on January 28, 2026

What you need to pack for a ski holiday

When you ski, you are outdoors in nature most of the time; packing layers is essential. You can wear more layers when the weather is cold, but for spring skiing, fewer layers are the rule of thumb. Professional skiers use a three-layer ski kit system that can be adapted for warmth, managing moisture and being comfortable in changeable mountain conditions.

I’m something of a ski expert. I loved skiing so much as a hobby that I made it my work and spent several seasons working as a ski rep in the Alps. It’s still just as much my passion, but now I write about skiing. With years of experience, I know what ski kit you need to make your life on the slopes a stress-free experience. From essential clothing such as jackets, trousers and layers to accessories and what you should pack for après ski, here is a handy kit list of what you need to make the best of your ski holiday.

Outer layers

The outer layer of your ski kit, ski jackets and trousers or salopettes, should keep out the elements while letting body moisture escape. They should be roomy enough to allow layering underneath and provide free movement when active.

A good quality, waterproof pair of ski trousers can be bought from Helly Hansen, a Norwegian company. I have tried the women’s Alphelia 2.0 insulated ski trousers. They feature an adjustable waist, have good stretch, and are available in colours from the standard black and navy to vibrant red and a frosty pale green named icicle. These are very comfortable trousers and look stylish too. I was impressed by the fit and feel; they are the best-fitting trousers I have worn in a while. The zipped vents are a good addition for air circulation on warmer days.

A ski jacket can be a waterproof shell jacket or an insulated jacket for colder days. A shell one will allow freedom of movement with room for multiple layers, according to the weather. For a quality, waterproof and windproof shell, splash out on a Women’s Khroma Latok GORE-TEX Pro Ski Jacket. Ideal for ski touring and off-piste adventures, as well as skiing on piste on a snowy day, this jacket features roomy pockets. The longer length will ensure that snow doesn’t get in. 

Mid Layers

A mid-layer traps body heat and keeps you warm on the mountain. A Helly Hansen mid-layer is a great option. The women’s versalite fleece jacket is a stylish addition to any outfit. With a full zip, high collar and zipped pockets, this jacket can be used all year round for skiing, hiking or as a lightweight layer for other active pursuits. The fleecy lining makes this a soft, comfortable midlayer. It has proved to be a great addition to my ski kit wardrobe.

For hikers who wear fleece jackets, these can also be used for skiing.

Base Layers

Base layers keep you warm and dry, as well as wicking moisture away from the body. One of the best brands for thermal base layers is Icebreaker. This New Zealand brand uses the finest merino wool. An Icebreaker thermal top and leggings will keep you warm on a cold day in the mountains. These thermals are thin and soft, ideal for those with sensitive skin. They are light, so they will not add weight to your luggage, making them ideal for your ski kit.

 

For warmer-weather skiing, pack a lighter base layer, such as the Black Diamond women’s Coefficient quarter-zip pullover. This lightweight layer is made from breathable, wicking material.

Ski Accessories

Essential ski accessories include helmets, gloves, socks and goggles.

Helmets protect the head in case of a fall, as well as keeping the cold out. In Italy, helmets are now compulsory for all skiers and snowboarders.  For a light, cutting-edge helmet, why not consider the Salomon Pioneer lt Pro?  If, like me, you find some helmets are too heavy, this helmet is a good bet. The soft internal flaps keep your ears warm; you can adjust the fit to make it snug but not too tight.

Gloves get a lot of use and can get tears from your skis if the edges are sharp. Hestra, a Swedish brand, has an excellent range of ski gloves, including the warm and practical five-finger women’s Heli ski gloves. Designed with long cuffs to keep snow out, they also feature a handy wrist strap to keep them from falling off. They feature a removable liner so you can remove it to dry it if it gets wet. This is useful, too, if you want to wear a thinner pair of gloves under the outer layer. Mittens and three-finger gloves are also available as an option.

Goggles are a vital item of ski kit, go for a pair suitable for all weather conditions. Look for high UV protection to protect your eyes and a stylish design. Bollé goggles are a good brand choice; the Bolle Nevada Race Black Matte is a great mid-range product. These goggles offer 100% UV protection, are excellent in poor visibility or on sunny days, and fit snugly thanks to the adjustable strap. The wide lens prevents snow from getting into your eyes.

I tested these goggles in all conditions, from low visibility to overcast to bright sunshine. They performed well, and I was delighted with them.

There is a wide choice of ski socks available on the market. I always prefer Smartwool ski socks; they keep your feet warm and don’t bunch up in your boots. 

A goggle protector is always useful to prevent wear and tear on your goggles’ surface; scratches can impair your vision. A fun ski-themed protector can be bought from Ellis Brigham.

Accessories to keep you warm on cold winter days are buffs or hats. As a ski seasonnaire, I have a big collection of both. 

For hats, an all-time favourite is a Planks beanie, perfect for popping in a pocket, or backpack to use out and about in the resort or for keeping your head warm when sitting outside at a mountain restaurant.

A buff is small but very useful part of your ski kit. It keeps your neck warm when it is cold and is excellent for wild or snowy days on the mountain.

A small waterproof backpack is always useful for carrying goggles, sunglasses and a bottle of water. I still use the Mammut rucksack I bought during my first ski season in Switzerland; it has proved invaluable.

Non skiing kit

Sunglasses are essential as the UV light is strong at altitude. Pop a pair in a pocket or your backpack for use on a sunny mountain terrace.

Remember that streets and paths in ski resorts can be snowy, icy, and slippery, so pack a pair of shoes with good grip. These can be snow boots, walking boots or even waterproof trainers.

It is important to use sunscreen on your face, even on a cloudy day, as the sun can still be strong due to high UV levels.

Ski Kit Checklist

• Ski Jacket
• Ski Trousers
• Base layers
• Mid layers
• Ski Socks
• Gloves
• Goggles
• Helmet
• Goggle protector
• Small backpack
• Hats & buffs
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy footwear
• Sunscreen
• Skis & ski boots

Ski Equipment

You will need ski boots, skis and poles. I have my own but sometimes choose to hire skis in resort when I arrive, as carrying skis on a long transfer can be hard work. You can also test different skis if you rent them.

My go-to supplier for ski rental is Skiset; they also rent out ski boots. I recommend booking in advance of your holiday to ensure your equipment is ready and waiting for you. You will benefit from the best discounts if you plan ahead.

SKiSET was established in 1994 by a group of former champions and prominent shop owners, headed by Annie Famose. It has grown into the largest ski rental provider in Europe.

There are 780 shops in 450 ski resorts in countries including France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Andorra, Spain, Germany, Bulgaria, and Slovenia. Discounts of up to 50% are available when booking online. 

Where to buy Ski Kit

A pick of general sites selling ski apparel and accessories: Snow and Rock, Ellis Brigham,  Cotswold Outdoors or Absolute Snow. These are all good starting points to put together your own ski kit.

I was sent samples of ski kit items to put to the test on the mountains.

Check our recommendations on the Top Ski Resorts in Europe