Packing for a ski trip can be a daunting task. Not to mention the logistics of fitting bulky winter gear and boots into a suitcase, it’s tough to know what you’ll need to stay warm and comfortable while braving the harsh winter elements. But fear not, as I’ve compiled my favorite winter essentials in this ultimate ski trip packing list that will prepare you to hit the slopes and look good doing it.

Growing up in Florida, I never quite got the hang of winter. My idea of a chilly day means anything below 70 degrees. Until recently I couldn’t wrap my head around why people voluntarily lived in cold places, let alone used their precious vacation days to travel across the country to a freezing cold destination.

But things changed when my husband and I moved to Colorado for the winter season. My entire mindset about the season has shifted, and I’ve learned to love the mountains, skiing and most everything in between.

So when it comes to how to pack for a ski trip, it all comes down to setting yourself up for success.

Warming up by the fire in Beaver Creek, Colorado

I’m a firm believer that to a certain point, gear is just gear – stuff people buy to make themselves feel more prepared.

But winter is different – gear is everything. Having the right or wrong setup – whether it’s for skiing or just heading out to dinner in subfreezing temperatures – can make or break your trip. 

So whether it’s your first time skiing or you’re updating your wardrobe for your annual trip, stick around. I’ve pulled together my favorite ski gear, outerwear and winter attire in this ultimate ski trip packing list.

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What to Pack for a Ski Trip: For the Slopes

     Hitting the slopes at Beaver Creek and Vail, Colorado

Ski Jackets & Pants

First things first – no ski trip packing list is complete without a sharp ski ensemble. Enter, Obermeyer.

I initially discovered Obermeyer when my friend Cassidy lent me her Tuscany II Jacket. Right away I was hooked, and I immediately became obsessed with the brand. A Colorado institution, Obermeyer’s outerwear is just as warm and durable as it is flattering… Something that can’t be said about all ski gear.

Obermeyer Siren Jacket / Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket / Obermeyer Bliss Pant

Both Obermeyer’s Tuscany II and Siren Jacket are the perfect universal winter coats. Take your pick, they’re both classics. Go seamlessly from the slopes to dinner out – both jackets come with a removable fur hood for when you want to be fancy.

As far as ski pants go, my favorites are Obermeyer’s Bliss Pant. The 3M Thinsulate insulation not only keeps your legs crazy warm, but the flattering cut prevents you from looking like the Michelin man.

Braving the Back Bowls at Vail Mountain, Colorado

Essential Ski Accessories

After a few days of freezing on the chairlift (and well, everywhere), I discovered Smartwool’s Merino 250 Neck Gaiter and I’ve never looked back. Like a scarf but better, this merino wool neck buff blocks the wind from your face, thus keeping you nice and toasty in the process.

READ MORE: 13 Wonderful Things to Do in Vail Besides Ski

As far as headgear goes, long gone are the days of wearing only a hat or headband to ski. Helmets are here to stay, and for the most part will keep you warm on the slopes. For days that are extra chilly – or if you’re die-hard enough to ski when it’s actually snowing – a thermal beanie under a helmet will work wonders. Check out this one from French Fitness Revolution.

As far as ski gloves go, the consensus is in: leather gloves are warmest for skiing. I’m a big fan of Swany’s La Posh Leather Gloves, which are as warm and waterproof as they are comfortable.

Top off your ensemble with a pair of ski goggles like these from Wildhorn.

Smartwool Merino 250 Neck Gaiter / French Fitness Revolution Thermal Skull Cap / Swany La Posh Leather Gloves / Wildhorn Roca Ski Goggles

Ski Base Layers

     
Après-ski in the yurt at the Montage Deer Valley, Utah

They say it’s what’s inside that counts, and when it comes to ski gear I couldn’t agree more.

Have I mentioned how much I adore Smartwool? Stay cozy underneath your ski gear with base layers like their Merino 250 Base Layer Bottom and Wool Active Crew Top.

READ MORE: The Best Things to Do in Beaver Creek, Colorado

Still cold? If you’re like me, then the answer is probably yes. For ski days that are extra chilly, throw on an additional layer like Lululemon’s Down For It All Vest.

For your feet, I’m a big fan of Pure Athlete’s wool ski socks. They’re warm, provide great cushion from cumbersome ski boots and also come in lots of fun colors.

Smartwool Merino 250 Baselayer Bottom / Smartwool NTS Mid 250 Crew Top /Lululemon Down For It All Vest / Pure Athlete Wool Ski Socks

What to Pack for a Ski Trip: For Off the Slopes

Snow Boots

If I can at minimum keep my feet warm, then I’m a happy camper. Though good boots aren’t cheap, you won’t regret making the investment in proper winter footwear.

As far as boots go, the big name in town is Sorel. These trusty classics are crazy warm, water and snow proof, and a bonus – they’re also super cute. Sorel’s turn your average leggings and a sweater getup into an actual outfit.

A snowy evening walk in Vail, Colorado

For everyday trekking around town, I love Sorel’s Caribou Boot – more often than not, I’m wearing these. For a sneaker-style boot that’s still crazy warm, I love Sorel’s Explorer Joan of Arctic Boot.

Sorel Caribou Boot / Sorel Explorer Joan Boot

Hats & Gloves

Sunset at the Montage Deer Valley, Utah

There are few things worse than having cold ears, so having the right headgear on hand is absolutely essential.

For chilly evenings in the mountains, you’ll need a warm beanie like this one from Amazon. A cozy headband will take you places and preserve your hair in the process, like this earwarmer from Lululemon.

Furtalk Winter Beanie / Lululemon’s Show Me the Sherpa Earwarmer/ Hestra Nordic Wool Mitt/ The North Face ETip Glove

Newsflash – mittens are back. Hestra’s Nordic Wool Mitts are as cute as they are cozy, and the Scandinavian design is a fun accent to any outfit.

For everyday adventures around town, I love the ETip Gloves from The North Face. Their thin thermal design is surprisingly warm and even will work with your phone. #priorities

Essential Winter Attire

A snowy night at Beaver Creek Mountain

Call me granola, but on any given day I’m most likely wearing a vest. They keep you comfy minus the bulkiness of a full blown sweater, plus won’t be too hot when the heat is cranked up indoors.

For something a bit cozier, I look to Patagonia’s Los Gatos Wray Vest, which feels a bit like you’re wearing a teddy bear. Alternatively, if you’re heading out to a nice dinner try Love Token’s Faux Fur Vest which will keep you warm and stylish in the process.

Soft flannel shirts have also become staples in my winter wardrobe. Channel your inner lumberjack in a classic flannel like Madewell’s Sunday Shirt or Wrangler’s Boyfriend Flannel Shirt.

Patagonia Los Gatos Wray Vest / Love Token Faux Fur Vest / Madewell’s Sunday Shirt / Wrangler’s Boyfriend Flannel Shirt

Winter Leggings

What’s my favorite things about living in the mountains? Leggings are acceptable attire for most any occasion. However, I quickly learned that my usual summer leggings didn’t cut it in the sub-freezing temperatures.

My new all-around faves for winter is Lululemon’s Keep the Heat Thermal Tight. The fleece lining paired with Lulu’s usual compression and tailored lines make them perfect for both a chilly outdoor workout or an evening out.

READ MORE: A Weekend Guide to St. Pete Beach, Florida

For a more budget-friendly cozy option, I’m obsessed with these $12 fleece leggings from Amazon. Nope, that’s not a typo, my friends. These babies are only twelve dollars.

Finally, you can’t go wrong with SPANX’s classic Faux Leather Moto Leggings – they go with just about everything.

Lululemon Keep the Heat Thermal Tight / Sejora High Waisted Fleece Lined Leggings / SPANX Faux Leather Moto Leggings

Winter Health + Beauty

     
Warming up at the Four Seasons Vail 

The cold, dry mountain climate is a stark cry from the humidity of Florida, and the change up threw a big monkey wrench in my beauty regiment.

After just a few weeks here, I had dry skin, hair, nails, nose… I’ll spare you further details. Though I haven’t entirely perfected it, I’ve found a few tricks that are well worth trying.

Winter Skincare Essentials

Both the altitude and the elements of the mountains can really do a number on your skin. And contrary to logic or popular belief, you can most definitely still get sunburnt – even when it’s cold out.

Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Sunscreen with SPF 110 / Sun Bum Lip Balm with SPF 30 /Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion

For your face, I’m a big fan of Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Sunscreen with SPF 110. The extra high SPF is not messing around, plus it’s oil-free formula gets the job done minus the grease of most sunscreens.

Protect your pout with Sun Bum Lip Balm with SPF 30. Sun Bum’s fun tropical flavors like coconut even taste like vacation.

I’ve been a fan of Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion for years, and most recently put it to the test under the dry winter conditions of Colorado. This lotion works wonders, and I keep it on hand (no pun intended) at all times.

Winter Health Essentials

A sunny day on Beaver Creek Mountain, Colorado

It’s no secret that nosebleeds can result from the dry air and the high elevation, and there’s never a good time to get one. The good news – there are a few things you can do to acclimate yourself to fight the effects of the mountains.

Immediately upon arrival at altitude, use a saline nasal spray like Arm & Hammer’s Simply Saline Nasal Mist to get out ahead of the discomfort.

Arm & Hammer’s Simply Saline Nasal Mist / MZTDYTL Portable Mini Humidifier / OGX Coconut Miracle Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

Using a humidifier at night also works wonders for combating the dry mountain air, like this portable one from MZTDYTL.

And finally to prevent your hair from falling victim to the harsh winter elements, your hotel or Airbnb’s free stuff probably isn’t going to cut it. Come prepared and pack travel-sized bottles of OGX’s Coconut Oil Shampoo and Conditioner.

A bluebird day on the slopes in Vail, Colorado

I hope that this guide has been helpful in preparing you for your next ski trip. Given the right gear, a sense of adventure, and lots of hot coffee, it’s truly a season to be enjoyed.

I want to hear from you, what are your best tips for packing for a ski trip? Stay warm, my friends!

Cheers,

Meredith

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Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T Pullover, $139

This cozy sweatshirt from Patagonia is the staple layer piece for any adventure, whether that’s a crazy 26-hour travel day or hiking Machu Picchu.

MeFOTO Classic Aluminum Roadtrip Travel Tripod, $147

For the photographer in your life, a professional-grade tripod like this one from MeFOTO will help them take their selfie game to the next level. Perfect for the adventurer that likes to go off the beaten path and document it when they get there.

PacSafe Convertible Backpack, $100

UE Roll Speaker, $90

The little sister to the classic UE Boom, the UE Roll is the perfect companion for a day at the beach. It’s waterproof, works on Bluetooth, and even comes with a matching floatie. The Roll is small in size but not sound quality – it’s about the length of a pair of sunglasses – the perfect size to pack in your carry-on.

A Cozy Coffee-Making Set

Perfect for the caffeine-lover in your life to pack for a cozy weekend in the mountains or a lazy Sunday morning at the beach condo. Pour-over coffee has made quite the comeback in recent years, producing a pure, flavorful cup of joe.

Look no further than Bean Envy – their Pour Over Coffee Maker and Coffee Kettle paired together make the perfect gift… No filters needed!

Bean Envy Pour Over Coffee Maker, $29 / Bean Envy Gooseneck Pour Over Coffee Kettle, $40

Tile Mate + Tile Slim, $65 

We all have that friend that is constantly losing things. Enter: theTile. Hook it to your keys or phone, then the Tile rings and tracks it if (ahem, when) they misplace it.

          

Audible Subscription, 3 months for $45 or 6 months for $90

What’s the best book you can bring with you on a trip? Trick question – there’s no need to pack books when you have Audible to keep you entertained.

Save your precious carry-on space and read with your ears instead. Give the gift of audiobooks with a three or six-month subscription, perfect entertainment for long flights or a day at the beach.

 Scratch Off World Map, $44

For checking destinations off the bucket list and dreaming about new ones, give your favorite traveler a map to document it all. The gold design won’t be an eye-sore in their house either.

Rebecca Minkoff Passport Case & Wallet, $45

Stocking Stuffers

LA Trading Company Eye Mask, $15

A good sleep mask makes all the difference on a red-eye flight… Particularly one that sends a helpful message, like this one from from LA Trading Company. Perfect for that friend that never turns down the complimentary in-flight cocktails.

 

Swell Stainless Steel Travel Mug, $35

This cute travel mug from Swell is great for the girl on the go, fitting perfectly into a purse or backpack. The stainless steel technology keeps drinks hot or cold for hours.

A-Swift Compression Socks, $15

I’m a recent convert to compression socks – they make a world of a difference on any flight longer than a few hours. This pair with the dreamy sheep from A-Swift are as cute as they are functional, and also comes in a load of other fun colors.

Belkin RockStar 5-Jack Multi Headphone Audio Splitter, $14

Sun Bum Day Tripper Travel-Sized Sun Care Pack, $20

The travel-sized version of my favorite sunscreen is a fantastic stocking stuffer for any sun seeker or beach bum. They’ll thank you later for not having to buy the exorbitantly-priced hotel gift shop sunscreen when they get to their destination.

Traveler’s Ornaments

Help them deck the halls with a travel-inspired ornament, like one of these from Amazon:

Commercial Airliner Resin Hanging Tree Ornament, $10 / Age of Exploration Christmas Ornament, $15 / Kurt Adler Travel Luggage Ornament, $19

What’s on your list this year? Share below in the comments!

Amazon Associates Disclosure: The Longest Weekend is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, at no additional cost to you.

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When I initially started The Longest Weekend, it was meant to be a detailed account of our travels on our sabbatical. A visual scrapbook, a reason to edit and organize my photos, another way to remember that amazing risotto we had in Paris… I told myself that even if only my grandmother reads it (Hi, Shannon!), it was a worthwhile venture.

But one of the best things that’s resulted from blogging is the community that I’ve found from all corners of the globe. I’ve connected with other adventurers who are following their dreams and taking us all along for the ride.

When you’re a new blogger, it’s not everyday that you get nominated for an award in the field. You can understand my excitement when I was nominated for the Liebster Awards – an award for bloggers, selected by bloggers.

Created by The Global Aussie, the Liebster Award is in it’s seventh year and aims to recognize and create exposure for newer blogs. You can check out the full details and rules here!

I was humbled and excited to be nominated by fellow travel blogger and my new Instagram gal pal, Cameron from Cam on the Geaux.

Cameron is an American living in the UK, and we immediately bonded over our love for travel, Europe and SEC football. She has a beautiful blog with fantastic travel tips – be sure to check her out!

Cameron at Lake Bled in Slovenia

Each Liebster Award nominee is asked a series of questions to answer, then pays it forward to other blogs.

Without further ado, here we go…

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done?

You’re looking at it! Earlier this year we quit our day jobs, donated most of our worldly possessions to charity, and decided to travel full-time.

I’ve always been a “by the book” kind of girl, but a dreamer at heart. More often than not, there’s never a good time to turn your life upside down and make a huge life change. There will always be tradeoffs, but if you have a big dream that isn’t going away, it’s worth making the sacrifices needed to make it happen.

For more on how we became full-time travelers click here.

Where is your favorite travel destination, and what makes it so special?

At the risk of sounding cliche, I’ll say it anyway: Italy, hands down.

Italy is one of those places that most people dream about visiting, and when you get there it smells, tastes, and feels even better than what you imagined.

While parts can be touristy, it’s all with good reason. I’ve been with my family, I spent a summer studying here in college, and I brought my husband Travis back last fall. It’s the place that I can return to again and again, and it never gets old.

Thanksgiving Day in Positano, Italy

What top three destinations are on your travel bucket list right now?

Bhutan – A country that measures Gross National Happiness instead of their GDP is worth a visit in my book. Ever since I first saw photos of the Tiger’s Nest in college, this tiny Asian nation has been at the top of my list.

Patagonia – I first fell in love with South America when I visited Peru last year, and since then I’ve been dying to visit Patagonia… Chile or Argentina, I’m not picky! The ends of the Earth-esque landscape, endless hiking trails and striking glaciers place this destination at the tip-top of my travel bucket list.

Japan – I’m completely intrigued by Japan. The vast traditions, the cherry blossoms, the bamboo forests, the ramen – I’m dying to go. Also after hiking the Camino de Santiago this year I’ve added the O-Shikoku pilgrimage to my bucket list, a 700 mile hike to 88 temples around one of Japan’s islands.

What’s the most memorable keepsake/souvenir you’ve bought during your travels?

An Omega Seamaster watch from the 1950’s. We bought it in Havana, Cuba on New Year’s Eve at a vintage book market.

We knew the risks of buying jewelry in this type of setting – it was either a very expensive paperweight or the souvenir of a lifetime. When we returned to the States and had it checked out, much to our surprise it was the real deal!

     
The colorful streets of Havana, the Omega Seamaster in action in Paris

If you were gifted a private plane or a private yacht which would you choose? And why?

I’d go with a private plane because the efficiency factor, and the possibilities are endless!

What’s the longest you’ve been away from home on vacation? Do you think you could go more than a year?

We just returned from spending five months in Europe and the Middle East, so that stretch takes the top spot.

Could I go away for longer? Given the proper setup, yes. While we wouldn’t change a thing from our first stint abroad, we learned that we would like to maintain a home base of some sort going forward.

Constantly being in new places is exhilarating, but at times also exhausting. Maintaining the consistency of a routine would be essential for us to be away for more than a year.

Feeling small at the Lost City of Petra, Jordan

If Queen Elizabeth II came to your house to eat dinner, what meal would you cook for her?

It’s no secret that I am a diehard Barefoot Contessa fan. For Her Majesty I would cook my go-to dish – Ina’s Lobster Mac and Cheese. Simple, all American with a hint of class.

How long have you had your blog & what are your long term goals?

I first started my blog when my husband and I left on our sabbatical in May of this year, with it officially launching in July… WordPress had a much steeper learning curve than I had anticipated!

Since we embarked on our travels, I’ve had the wonderful problem for a blogger of having more content and ideas than I have time to get it out there. We traveled at a whirlwind speed through our first five months, so I am excited for our next leg this winter we will be staying in one place for a bit.

I’m looking forward to investing the time to taking my blog to the next level and furthering my skillset. Think more SEO, Pinterest, affiliate marketing, a newsletter, and of course more destinations and coverage from our adventures!

What is your ideal date night?

For me, an ideal date night needs three things: a great view, great wine, and Travis. Anything else is just a bonus!

A date night to remember in Amsterdam

Now for my 2018 Liebster Award nominations…

Mindy on the Move

Mindy is an adventurer at heart, and her blog dives into her love for the outdoors and all things in the wild.

Her experience working in the film industry lends itself seamlessly to the storytelling on her blog. Her photography is stunning, and it’s getting me very excited for our next adventure in the mountains. Check out her blog here!

Mindy from Mindy on the Move

Live with Habiba

Habiba takes being worldly to another level – she was born in Morocco and speaks five languages!

Her passion for the outdoors is infectious, and her narration of her travels is truly inspiring… Is anyone else now feeling a trip to Peru?! Check out her blog here! 

Habiba at Rainbow Mountain in Peru

Sunsets and Rollercoasters

Joanne, the voice behind Sunsets and Rollercoasters, is proof that the travel doesn’t stop when you have kids… In fact, it’s even more of a reason to do so.

Joanne and her husband have traveled to more than 15 countries with their three children, blogging and sharing her top tips along the way. Talk about inspiring! Drop by her blog here.

A beautiful shot from Joanne’s recent trip to Budapest

Up and Gone

An American expat living in Germany, Gabrielle has been wandering the globe since she was 17. She guides us through her travels and life abroad on her blog Up and Gone.

I love her adventurous spirit, plus her photography is gorgeous. Click here for her site! 

Gabrielle from Up and Gone in Berlin, Germany

My questions for the nominees…

Where have you visited that surprised you most, and why?

Describe the best and worst meals you’ve ever had while traveling.

When were you tested most while on the road?

What’s your best piece of travel advice for traveling with another person?

Where are you most excited to travel to in 2019?

Other than your passport, what’s the one item you never leave home without?

What’s your cure for homesickness while traveling?

If you could live anywhere in the world other than where you live now, where would it be and why?

You’re shipwrecked on a deserted island… What’s the one tool you would want for survival?

What are your top three bucket list destinations at the moment?

I hope that you’ve enjoyed the change up today on The Longest Weekend. If you know someone who should be nominated for the Liebster Award, please send me a message!

More importantly, I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn, connect and share with other travelers from around the world, bloggers and readers alike. Community is everything, and a strong one makes the world a better place.

Cheers,

Meredith

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