Don’t Hit First Chair Without It: Ultimate Ski & Snowboard Checklist

You’ve packed perfectly for your ski vacation by following a ski trip packing list. The alarm rings and you jump out of bed pushing the shades open. It’s blue bird, and there’s over two FEET of fresh snow. Today’s going to be epic! Quickly scarfing down breakfast, you rush out of the cabin for first chair. Music’s blaring. You and your friends are beyond stoked. Today’s the day! Pulling up to the slopes, you jump out and open the tailgate. Your stomach drops. This is when you realize you’ve forgotten something. If this is your first ski day or one of many, learn from our mistakes and use this quick day of checklist to make sure you have all your skiing essentials BEFORE you rush out the door.

Printable Checklist

Once was enough when I forgot a pair of goggles and had to drop another thirty bucks for a pair because it was a storm day. Instead of letting this happen again, we created a checklist to make sure we have everything we need before we step out the door. Learn from our mistakes and download our FREE skiing essentials checklist:

Essential Ski / Snowboard Clothes

The first and quite possibly most important gear are the ski clothes you’re going to wear. If you wear the right stuff, you’ll be warm on cold days. Cool on sunny spring adventures. Dry when Mother Nature throws a curve ball, and it’s raining/sleeting.

• Ski socks: Choose mid-weight merino or technical socks that wick moisture and never wear cotton to keep your feet warm and dry on the slopes.
• Base layers: Should be snug-fitting, moisture-wicking fabrics like Smartwool that keep you warm and dry while feeling soft and comfortable against your skin.
• Mid layers (i.e. puffy / fleece): Look for lightweight, insulating pieces that add warmth where you need it most. For me, I wear a mid layer only on my lower body, since my feet and legs get colder faster than my upper body.
• Ski Pants: Key is waterproof, insulated pants with gaiters to keep snow out. Not a bad idea to even consider a bib style for extra back protection or if you require tall snowpants without sacrificing mobility.
• Ski Jacket: Choose either a waterproof breathable shell that allows you to add layers to adjust to changing temperatures and stay comfortable all day. Or, if you’re planning on skiing in colder climates (i.e. Montana) consider one that’s insulated instead.
• Gloves / Mittens : Look for waterproof, insulated options that keep your hands warm and dry. Gloves offer better dexterity, while mittens are warmer in extreme cold, and three-finger gloves strike a solid balance between the two.
• Neck Gaiter / Face Mask: For cold storm days consider a warm, heavier option and a lightweight, breathable one for warmer or spring conditions to stay protected and comfortable.
• Skull Cap / Balaclava: Look for a thin, wind-blocking layer to add warmth under your helmet, or choose a balaclava to combine head and face protection in one piece.

Equipment

Out of all the skiing essentials, your equipment has A LOT to do with personal preference and skill level. If it’s your first time, we recommend renting it but if you plan on skiing and snowboarding a lot then consider investing in a snowboard or a pair of skis.

• Skis / Snowboard: Give your setup a once over, check that all bolts are tight and nothing is damaged so your setup feels solid. A properly dialed stance and bindings make a huge difference in comfort and control.
• Snowboard / Ski Boots: Check laces, buckles, and straps to make sure everything is working properly. If your boots feel uncomfortable or off, fit and support matter more than anything else.
• Ski Poles: When renting or buying, flip the pole upside down and hold it under the basket. The right size will give you a 90-degree angle at your elbow with your upper arm relaxed at your side.
• Helmet: Protect your most important asset by wearing a helmet that fits well and works with your goggles. Look for solid impact protection, comfort, and ventilation without overpaying for hype.
• Goggles: Focus on fit first, making sure they work with your helmet and seal well on your face. At a minimum, they should block wind, reduce glare and have UV Protection so you can see clearly in all conditions.

Accessories

While some of these are truly skiing essentials like your season pass, others are not as much. But, you’ll be glad you have them such as sun block on those sunny spring days.

• Lift Pass: Always have your pass printed or digital and ready to go so you can hit the lifts without delay.
• Snacks: Keep quick, high-energy snacks like jerky or granola bars in your pockets to stay fueled without leaving the slopes.
• Backpack: For long storm days, use a light, snow-specific backpack with a water reservoir to carry essentials without feeling bulky.
• Tool: Carry a compact multi-bit tool like the Dakine Torque Driver Tool for quick fixes, as resort wrenches are often tricky to use.
• Lip Balm: Protect your lips from wind and sun to prevent chapping on cold days.
• Sun Block: Apply sunscreen even on cloudy days to guard against high-elevation sun exposure.
• GoPro: Capture your runs and tricks so every moment is documented and shareable.
• Wax: Bring warm-weather wax and a bit of base cleaner for spring conditions to keep your skis or board sliding smoothly.
• Headphones: Optional, but can make your time on the slopes more fun if you like skiing or snowboarding with music.