Most ski packing lists stop at the bottom of the last lift. Half the week happens after that, so this one covers both: what you need to ski, and what you need for the terrace, the chalet and the walk to dinner.
On the mountain
Layers
The system is base, mid and shell. The base layer sits against your skin and should not be cotton, which holds sweat and gets cold. Merino can be worn several days running. The mid layer is a fleece or light insulated jacket: down is warmer for its weight but stops working when wet, while synthetic keeps working when damp. The shell keeps out wind and snow.
- 2 base-layer tops and 1 pair of base-layer leggings
- 1–2 mid layers
- Ski jacket and salopettes
- Neck warmer or buff
- Gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer, gloves give more dexterity)
Socks
Wear one pair of proper ski socks, never two. More socks means less feel through the boot and less control. Pack three pairs for the week and rotate.
Helmet and goggles
Try them on together so the helmet does not push the goggles down your nose. In Italy, helmets have been compulsory for all skiers and snowboarders of every age since 1 November 2025, and third-party liability insurance is also required. In France there is no legal requirement, and in Austria the rules cover children only, but many travel insurance policies expect one.
Sun
According to the World Health Organization, UV levels rise by 10–12% with every 1,000 metres of altitude, and fresh snow can reflect up to 80% of UV. Pack high-factor sunscreen, a lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses for lunch.
- Helmet and goggles
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- Small rucksack, hand warmers and a basic first-aid kit
Off the mountain
This is the part most lists skip. The shell comes off the moment you sit down on a terrace, so what is underneath is the outfit. Pack clothes that look like clothing rather than kit.
- 2–3 tees or long-sleeves for lunch and après
- A heavyweight hoodie or crewneck for when the sun drops
- Sweatpants for the chalet and the drive home
- Jeans or trousers for dinner
- Boots with real grip. There will be ice, or at least slush
- Slippers if you are staying in a chalet
- Swimwear for the spa or hot tub
Our après-ski guide has three outfits that cover the whole week.
Documents and money
- Passport and travel insurance documents
- Lift pass and ski hire confirmations
- For UK travellers, a GHIC. It does not cover mountain rescue or repatriation, so it is not a substitute for winter sports insurance. Check your policy covers off-piste if you plan to ski it
- Switzerland uses Swiss francs; cards are accepted almost everywhere, and many places also take euros but give change in francs
Plugs
France uses Type E sockets and Switzerland uses Type J. The thin two-pin Europlug fits both, but a French or German plug with the thicker round pins will not fit a Swiss socket. Pack the right adaptor for where you are staying.
Ski bags
Rules vary by airline and by fare. SWISS carries a pair of skis or a snowboard free on many fares (not Economy Light), while easyJet charges for sports equipment. Add ski carriage when you book, check whether boots can go in the ski bag, and weigh it before you leave.