After moving out to Seattle a couple years ago (from Chicago) I’ve learned that skiing is a staple sport in the pacific north west. Not growing up on the slopes, it took me a couple ski trips to learn what the key items were to have a successful and COMFORTABLE trip! Below are my 12 key items that I always bring with me …. in addition to those staples that you think of right away (skis, boots, poles, & helmet if you own them and snow pants, jacket, hat & gloves).
Here’s my top ski essentials
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Now, a little bit more about each item …
1 Chapstick | cold dry air can definitely make your lips chapped. I always make sure to have chapstick with me, but especially when skiing! Grab your favorite kind or try out this DIY EOS copy cat version.
2 Sunscreen | The sun can be pretty fierce when you are skiing (any Project Runway fans?). It reflects off the snow & can cause major damaging burns to your skin! I always bring a small face sunscreen with me.
3 Extra socks | I bring an extra pair with me because I ALWAYS seem to get snow in my boots midway through the day. Make sure you have TALL socks that go up to your knees so that your boots don’t rub in to your skin. I’m not one to pay a lot for socks, but I have gotten on the bandwagon for high quality ski socks as a ski necessity.
4 Boots | Wear your winter boots to the ski lodge instead of tennis shoes, else you’ll likely get your first pair of socks wet before you even hit the slopes!
5 Granola bar | Bring a snack in your jacket pocket. You will be really happy you have a quick energy boost when you need it most.
6 Waterproof mascara | If you’re going to wear make-up it’s gotta be waterproof!
7 Waterproof phone holder | Considering my rookie ski skills, I end up in the snow a lot more than I’d like to admit. So having a waterproof case for my phone is pretty crucial. I bought this one online for under $10 assuming my phone would fit a little bit more snug than it did. That ended up being ideal because there was enough room to store some cash & credit cards in it as well!
8 Layers | Think THIN layers. The temperature at the top of the slope can vary greatly from the bottom so even if you’re not cold putting on your skis, you may appreciate the layers once you get to the top! I use my winter running compression tops & bottoms.
9 Extra hair accessories | I braid my hair before I hit the slopes to prevent knots in my ponytail, so I always take an extra ponytail holder or two.
10 Workout sunglasses and/or goggles | My first season of skiing I didn’t own goggles, so I used my workout sunglasses which was a great substitute as I was learning to ski. The glare from the snow can be tough on your eyes when you’re on the slopes so make sure to bring something!
11 Infinity scarf | The first couple times I went skiing I didn’t think about keeping my neck warm. BIG MISTAKE. An infinity scarf is a good option because it just stays around your neck! I bought this one because it had the extra layer of lining within it.
12 Backpack | Instead of bringing a nice purse or bag, I brought an old backpack which I stored at the ski lodge while skiing. I stuffed my boots, extra socks, layers and water bottle in it. Ski lodge floors can be dirty (think melting snow on the floor) so skip the fancy bag and bring an old one!
May you pack like a pro even if you’re still a rookie!
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Samantha says
would have never thought of the waterproof phone holder!
Carlee says
Great ideas! I bet that waterproof phone holder is a life saver!
Lindsay @ Crazy Organized says
Thanks! For the number of times I fall in the snow, YES it is 🙂
Chris says
Great tips!!!
Thanks for sharing at Funtastic Friday!