Once you’ve selected the perfect destination for your ski holiday, it’s time to pack. Whether you’re headed on ski holidays in Austria, France, Switzerland, or anywhere else, you need to make sure you’re fully provisioned.
From clothing to equipment, this guide aims to help you understand exactly what you might need for a ski holiday and ensure you’re fully prepared for the trip.
Crucial clothing you need for the slopes
Adequate clothing is essential for a holiday on the slopes. From windproof and waterproof jackets that protect you from the weather to moisture-wicking base layers and hard-wearing boots, the right gear will ensure you have a good time.
Unsurprisingly, skiing can get very cold, which is why protective clothing is so crucial. Utilising thermal layers, including tops and trousers, is key to retaining as much body heat as possible.
You should also make sure you’ve got warm hats, scarves, and gloves. These additional extras will make sure you’re comfortable, no matter the outside temperatures.
Essential equipment for skiing
Of course, having the right equipment can be just as important as your clothing. Items like goggles, skis, and rucksacks are all considered must-have equipment when you’re on the slopes, and selecting the right ones is essential to the experience’s success.
For example, there are many different types of ski goggles, with various lens tints and shapes designed to meet different conditions. While a yellow tint is better suited to overcast days, a blue tint reduces the glare of sunny days.
Extras to enhance your trip
While the essentials might be covered, there are some other items you need to consider to enhance your trip.
First on the list is sun cream. Snow is great at reflecting the sun’s UV rays, which means without protection, you can easily get sunburned.
Additionally, you might want an action camera, like a GoPro, to fully capture your memories. These are much better suited to the adventure of skiing down a slope than your phone camera and can withstand any potential falls.
Renting vs buying
One key thing you’ll need to decide on is whether to rent or buy your equipment, and there are several pros and cons to each option. For instance, owning your equipment means you understand its performance and build confidence, but it can be expensive and you’ll need to transport it to your chosen slopes.
As a general rule, beginners and irregular skiers should lean towards renting equipment, while more experienced and frequent skiers should invest in their own gear.
Image: Unsplash, Martin Duineveld
