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What to bring? Check out the packing list for your winter sports holiday here!

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What should you bring with you when you go on winter holidays? Especially when you go skiing for the first time, it can be pretty challenging to think about what to remember to bring. Even the seasoned winter sportsman/woman might have to think twice. There are so many things to pack! Ski clothes, goggles, ski equipment, a ski helmet, clothes for after skiing, and so on. What are the essentials to pack when you go on winter holidays? We have compiled a handy packing list, especially for you. So you can be sure you remember everything!

Packing list for winter sports

The time has finally come: you will be going on a winter sports trip in a few days. Packaging is always a big challenge, whether it is the first or the tenth time. After all, you want to avoid finding out upon arrival that your ski boots are still in the attic or your favourite jacket is still in the closet. That is why it is handy to keep a packing list. Either print it out, write it down or put imaginary checkmarks, but keep the list with you when packing. That way, you can be sure that everything you need to take with you on your winter holiday. What do you take with you on winter sports? We list everything for you.

Loading the car for winter sports with packing list
© Spalder Media Group

Bring along on winter holiday: clothing

Different clothes for the slopes, après-ski, a night out and for the hotel or apartment: you can fill a gigantic suitcase with clothes to take with you on winter sports. But think carefully beforehand whether you will need and wear everything. Moreover, there are items that you can wear all week long without anyone being surprised. When it comes to skiwear, it is important to bear in mind the so-called three-layer system: a base layer (thermal underwear), an insulating layer or mid-layer (fleece, down or something else) and a protective outer layer against wind, rain and snow (jacket or hardshell).

  • At least one ski jacket
  • At least one pair of ski trousers
  • Several ski tops
  • A fleece jumper or a sweater to wear over your ski top
  • Thermal underwear
  • Ski socks
  • Socks
  • Ski gloves or mitts
  • A hat
  • A scarf or neck gaiter
  • Comfortable clothes: a jogging suit or loungewear
  • Casual wear
  • Clothes for an evening out
  • Pyjamas
  • Swimwear
  • Underwear
  • Slippers
  • Shoes
  • Snow boots

Bring along on winter holiday: for the slopes

Clothing alone won't get you there, of course. When you hit the slopes, you need a few more essential things. And no, just skis and ski boots won't get you there!

  • A backpack: for a snack, something to drink and an extra layer of clothing
  • A helmet
  • Goggles
  • Sunglasses
  • Skis or snowboard
  • Ski or snowboard boots
  • Ski poles
What to bring for the slopes

Bring along on winter holiday: in your toiletry bag

Have you packed your clothes and equipment for the slopes? Then it's time for your toiletry bag-obvious items, perhaps, but ones that are still easily forgotten.

  • Sunscreen with a high factor (at least 30)
  • Lip balm with SPF (sun protection)
  • Make-up
  • Moisturizer
  • Muscle rub
  • Painkillers
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Shower gel
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Medication
  • Shaving kit

Bring along on winter holiday: miscellaneous

And then we're left with some last goodies that are also indispensable. How about a charger for your phone?

  • Travel insurance with winter sports coverage
  • Camera or action cam
  • Money (both cash and credit/debit cards)
  • Passport or identity card
  • Chargers: for your phone, camera, Sat Nav etc.
  • First aid kit
  • Prescription glasses or contact lenses and solution
  • Books and (board) games
  • Mobile phone (tip: save the piste emergency number on your phone when you reach your destination)
  • Hair dryer
  • Earbuds for listening to music and earplugs to help you sleep
  • Detergent for hand washing
  • Towels for the swimming pool (if available)
Board games on winter holidays packing list
© Spalder Media Group

Bring along on winter holiday: in the apartment.

Are you staying in an apartment during your winter holidays? Then it pays to check in advance if it comes fully equipped. Towels, tea towels, or coffee filters are not always provided. They are easy enough to come by, but it's just as convenient to bring them from home.

  • Bed linens
  • Towels and tea towels
  • Cleaning cloths
  • Dishwashing brush/sponge
  • Dishwasher tablets
  • Toilet paper
  • Kitchen rolls
  • Coffee filters
  • Can opener
  • Corkscrew
  • Scissors

Bring along on winter holiday: in the car

Now you're fully packed. But if you're travelling by car, there are a few essentials to bring along for the road.

  • Vehicle registration certificate
  • Vignette
  • Spare car keys
  • Anti-fog cloth
  • Roof rack/roof box
  • Snow chains
  • Winter tyres
  • Road map
  • Navigation system
  • Directions + accommodation details
  • Safety jackets for all occupants
  • Torch and tealight
  • Automotive tools
  • Fleece blankets
  • Matches or lighter
  • Windscreen fluid with antifreeze (-20 minimum)
  • Ice scraper + sweeper
  • Children's games
  • Food and drinks for the road
  • Old rug and old gloves
  • Toilet roll
  • Cleaning wipes
On winter holidays by car
Winter Female Author 3

About Nina Jan

I grew up in Slovenia, close to the Julian Alps. Early on, my parents put me on skis and skates, and the winter sports enthusiasm hasn't left me since. I also enjoy cross-country skiing and have been a keen snowboarder for the past 20 years.