For first time visitors to the Swiss Alps, knowing what to take is pretty important, especially if you’re flying and only have limited valuable luggage space! We’ve put together a helpful ski holiday packing list so that you know what every member of the family will need to stay warm and happy on your next ski trip.
Ski jacket and ski pants
An essential for any ski holiday no matter what time in the season you’re visiting, we’d advise investing in a ski jacket and ski pants before you arrive, as resort prices can be high especially in Switzerland, but it is something that can easily be bought in resort if you have the budget. If you’re investing in a new jacket, we’d recommend checking out some of the more environmentally friendly brands such as Patagonia or Picture. Remember if you’re buying a shell jacket (without internal padding) you will likely need a down jacket to go underneath this for colder days.
Thermal base layers
You’ll need a minimum of a set of thermal long-sleeved top and pants. Merino wool is one of the best natural wicking materials, but synthetic ones will do the job just fine and be cheaper. If you’re going for a week’s ski trip and planning on skiing every day, we’d advise investing in at least two or three tops. The thermal pants some people go without especially in warmer months such as March or April, but we’d advise taking a pair just in case.
Fleece/mid-layer
You probably have something appropriate in your wardrobe already if you’re not wanting to invest in yet more technical wear. A fleece or synthetic mid-layer is best to go over your thermal layer. Best to avoid cotton as if you end up getting it wet it’ll stay damp all day.
Ski socks
Another essential buy! Try and buy some merino or other good quality ski socks which are fitted to the foot, rather than a pair of cheap tube socks. Not only will they last for years, they will ensure your boot fits correctly and your feet stay warm! Don’t be tempted to layer your ski socks you’re your normal socks or double them up – this usually results in colder feet!
Ski gloves
A good pair of waterproof ski gloves is essential. Again these will last years if buying a good make. If you are prone to getting very cold hands and are visiting at a colder time of year such as January, consider investing in mittens, or some glove liners for chilly days. There’s literally nothing worse than cold hands!
Helmet
Worth investing in but can normally be rented in resort, especially for children whose are still growing, helmets are now pretty much essential wear on the slopes for skiers and snowboarders. Make sure you buy one with a good fit and don’t be tempted to buy a larger helmet for a child to grow into; if you’re struggling or you’re buying for a child some helmets come with an adjustable dial at the back. Top tip: try on your helmet with your ski goggles to avoid a ‘forehead gap’ between the two!
Clothes for off the slopes
Remember to pack weather-appropriate shoes and clothes for apres ski or days off the slopes as well! We would recommend the following:
- A good pair of snow boots: some people opt for hiking boots if you already have these, but for snowy days in town a pair of snow boots that comes up to your mid-calf is what you want. Look for boots with a good tread on the sole; Sorels or Timberlands are popular makes in most mountain towns.
- Spare shoes: If you fancy throwing in a pair of trainers or pumps for warmer months and dry days go for it; again ones with good tread are the best. Ladies: leave the heels behind, you really wont be needing them!
- Jeans / Jumpers / t-shirts: all your normal clothes for whatever you choose to do off the slopes! Whether you’re lounging in your chalet, popping out for dinner or a drink, ski resorts are pretty casual so you likely wont need anything too dressy but that’s up to you depending on plans for your trip. Leave behind the big jumpers; bars and restaurants tend to be really warm here so you’re better bringing things you can layer up or down.
- Spare jacket: not exactly essential as you can get away with just your ski jacket if luggage is tight but most people prefer to have a second jacket for around town, while your ski jacket dries off at home for the next day. Jackets can often be mistakenly taken at bars so use the cloakrooms instead especially if it’s something you mind losing, or even more so if it’s your only jacket!
- Beanie: essential ski resort casual wear, especially if its cold and snowy!
