When it comes to skiing, having the right basics is crucial. According to ski expert Celeste Pomerantz, as long as you have your clothes, skis, and boots, you’re off to a good start. However, proper preparation is key. Pomerantz suggests starting to pack a week in advance and ensuring that you have everything you need.
One essential item for easy transport is a ski bag with wheels. Pomerantz recommends the Dakine Fall Line Ski Roller Bag, which costs $179 and is durable enough to last for many years. Most of your gear, including your skis, can fit in this bag. Ski bags can usually be checked at the same rate as a regular suitcase, as long as they don’t exceed the airline’s weight limit. Keep in mind that the ski bag will likely be dispensed at the oversized luggage counter at your arrival airport.
One item that may not fit in the ski bag is your boots. Pomerantz suggests either using a dedicated ski boot bag with backpack straps or bringing your boots onboard as your personal item and stowing them in the overhead bin. Pomerantz often brings her boots on the plane and uses the boot bag to store her helmet, gloves, and other hard goods. She emphasizes the importance of bringing your own boots rather than renting, as rental boots may not be as comfortable or well-fitted. Additionally, packing your boots separately reduces the risk of losing them if your luggage gets lost or damaged during the flight. Some people even wear their ski boots on the plane to avoid any potential issues with the airline.
In addition to the basics, you’ll need to pack other essential gear for your ski trip. This includes gloves, goggles, ski pants, poles, a helmet, and outerwear. Pomerantz advises bringing multiple lenses for your goggles to accommodate different weather conditions, as well as extra pairs of gloves. Don’t forget to bring your ski pass if you have one, as some resorts may charge a fee to print a ticket if you don’t have your pass.
When it comes to base layers and clothing, Pomerantz recommends merino wool options from Mons Royale. Their gear includes base layers, ski socks, balaclavas, and beanies. The most important factor to consider when choosing clothing is the weather conditions. Take into account the temperature, possibility of snow, elevation at the top of the resort, and the intensity of your skiing activities. It’s better to be overprepared and dress warmly, but also keep in mind that you may want to shed a layer as the day goes on, so bringing a backpack to store that layer is essential.
If you plan to venture into the backcountry for a ski tour, avalanche safety equipment is a must. Pomerantz recommends bringing your own gear instead of relying on rental shops. She suggests packing the beacon, probe, and probe shovel with your skis to ensure you have them with you. Pomerantz also suggests using dry bags to keep small, backcountry-specific items organized and easily accessible.
In addition to the essentials, there are a few extra items and hacks that can make your ski trip more enjoyable. Pomerantz suggests using AirTags to track your skis in case your luggage gets lost. This provides peace of mind and ensures that you know their location.
When packing everything in the ski bag, Pomerantz recommends practicing a few times to ensure that everything fits. She suggests following a specific order: boots, gloves, helmet, goggles, pass, ski poles, clothes, and extras. By packing in this order, you can avoid any last-minute panic about forgetting something important.
Celeste Pomerantz will be traveling with the Black Crows team this winter, and you can follow her adventures on Instagram.
We appreciate your interest in the ski gear we recommend! Please note that investingtravels.com may earn a small commission from the links on this page if you choose to book a stay. The prices listed are accurate at the time of publication.