What to Pack for a Ski Holiday
Words by Bridie Newman, Maya Avram, Sophia Miller and Tony Wilkes
There’s no such thing as packing light for snow sports. Whether you’re a black-run master or “just here for the après”, a ski trip requires plenty of layers to beat the chill. Find the balance between performance and polish with our chic women’s skiwear and men’s skiwear must-haves – plus, learn what to pack for the kids and make sure you have all the skincare essentials for alpine conditions.
What should women pack for a ski holiday?
It goes without saying that practicality is key when it comes to skiwear – but today’s luxury brands approach the challenge with more than a little pizzazz. Start your ski outfit with lightweight layers – think thermal long-sleeve tops and leggings in an insulating material like merino wool – then slip into a ski suit or matching jacket and salopettes in a colour and print that speaks to your personal style. For the après, an Alpine-inspired knit or two won’t go amiss, and a pair of chic snow boots will likely be the only footwear you’ll really need. Add a cosy accessory, and you can consider your suitcase complete.
The Ski Suit
The most stylish skiers know that a one-and-done snowsuit is the easiest way to show up on the slopes with a little personality. Perfect Moment offers some of the most attention-grabbing styles, from monochrome houndstooth to multicoloured chevron, while new arrivals from the likes of Goldbergh, Fusalp and Louis Vuitton Ski can be found in-store.
The Snow Boots
You may have resigned yourself to leaving your stilettos at home, but that doesn’t mean your footwear can’t be chic. Superlatively chunky snow boots by the likes of Jimmy Choo, Moon Boot and Ugg are happily enjoying a renaissance, and look just as good styled with a ski suit as they do with jeans and a cable knit après days on the piste.
What should men pack for a ski holiday?
When it comes to dressing for the slopes, seasoned skiers have learned (often the hard way) what to prioritise. Warmth, of course, practicality and movement are key – but gone are the days when your alpine wardrobe came at the cost of style. Now, brands like Prada, Fendi and Louis Vuitton are seasoned in ski collections, while heritage technical names – from Moncler to Fusalp and Bogner – are upping their aesthetic game. Amid the flurry of new and appealing offerings, here’s a selection of the best men’s skiwear for your next trip.
The Ski Jacket
Golfers will already know the name J.Lindeberg, one of our five men’s golf brands to know. Its mission is summed up in the bridge logo, printed across its Acers ski jacket: boldly connecting the worlds of functional sportswear and elevated style. It combines wind and waterproof stretch shell, a snowskirt and ventilation zippers with smaller practical details that make all the difference, such as integrated elastic cuffs with thumb holes, a ski pass pocket at the bottom sleeve and even a goggle cloth fixed in the chest pocket.
The Ski Trousers
Named after the Moroccan city, where founder Charaf Tajer’s parents met and fell in love, Casablanca first evoked the tennis courts and après sportswear of sunbaked North Africa. This year, the brand ventures beyond the summer heat with its first slope-ready capsule – complete with skis by Swiss brand Faction. Inspired by the graphic beauty of Japan’s winter countryside, these ski trousers are made in Portugal from durable ripstop and packed with insulating down padding. They’re finished with several deep pockets and elasticated zip fastenings at the ankles.
What’s the best skiwear for kids?
When it comes to matching with your mini-me, skiwear is a fun place to start. Look to Perfect Moment Kids and Bogner Kids for miniature renditions of your favourite look, and stock up on colourful base layers, ski goggles and snow boots from the likes of Roarsome and Liewood. Family photos incoming.
Which beauty staples should you pack for ski holiday?
Nourishing and shielding your skin from the elements is essential on the slopes. From icy headwinds to intense sun exposure (the Alps rank among Europe’s highest UV zones), maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion comes down to preserving moisture. During the day, layer antioxidant-rich serums – think vitamins C and E, plus ferulic acid – beneath a broad-spectrum SPF 50, reapplying every two hours. Back at the chalet, opt for lipid-rich moisturisers to reinforce elasticity and strengthen the skin barrier. All that’s left is to bask in the glow; whether from the snow or your own
Nourishing Creams
Alpine air can leave skin feeling parched in no time – so hydration is your first line of defence. Rich, barrier-repairing creams like Biologique Recherche Crème Masque Vernix VG are the ultimate remedy, cocooning your complexion in a protective layer that restores comfort and suppleness after a day on the slopes.
High-Performance SPF
UV rays are even stronger at altitude, so a high-performance SPF is essential even on cloudy days. La Prairie’s Cellular Swiss UV Protection Veil SPF 50 delivers broad-spectrum defence in a featherlight formula, perfect for layering under make-up or wearing solo for a polished finish. Pair this with a nourishing lip balm and you’ll be ready to face the elements.
What luggage should you bring on a ski holiday?
Your luggage will depend on whether you’re packing ski equipment. If you’re renting skis, poles or a snowboard, you’ll only need a spacious wheeled suitcase or a large duffel bag for your skiwear and hand luggage.
It’s also worth packing a small day bag with water, snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers for when you’re out carving fresh powder or hiking scenic trails.
More Skiing Essentials
Where should you stay?
With hundreds of ski resorts across the world to choose from, we asked experts in luxury travel, Abercrombie & Kent, to whittle down their top three.
Canada-bound skiers looking for an urban take on the traditional mountain lodge should head to the Four Seasons in Whistler’s Upper Village. It has the trifecta of skiing holidays: adventure, world-class dining, and restorative wellness experiences.
In the Italian Alps, find soaring views at Forestis, an above-the-clouds wellness retreat with a 2000 m² spa and award-winning eco-conscious design and cuisine. Or for an equally calming resort, the newly renovated Aman Rose Alpina blends Aman’s signature pared-back aesthetic with the Pizzinini family’s warm hospitality.
Four Seasons, Whistler
Forestis, Dolomites
Aman Rosa Alpina, Dolomites
Your Ski Holiday Packing List
Thermal base layers (long-sleeved tops and leggings)
Jumpers, fleeces or sweatshirts
Waterproof ski trousers or salopettes
A waterproof ski jacket or all-in-one ski suit
Casualwear for travel days and après-ski
Ski gloves
A warm hat and scarf
Snow boots or hiking boots with grip
Sunglasses
Socks
Underwear
Helmet*
Goggles
Waterproof, insulated gloves or mittens
Snood or balaclava
Ski hat or helmet liner
Ski socks
Ski boots*
Skis*
Poles*
Snowboard*
*Can be hired at destination
SPF 50
SPF lip balm
Cleanser
Serums
Moisturiser (day and night)
Make-up
Haircare
First-aid kit and medicine
Camera and/or GoPro
Power bank
Insulated phone case
Smart watch or ring
In-helmet headphones
Passport
Travel documents
Plug adaptors
Books
Wallet or purse
Insulated water bottle
Thermal coffee mug
High-energy snacks
Related Stories
