Ski holidays come with enough moving parts without having to worry about that last-minute packing panic. So whether it’s your first time skiing or you’ve been doing it for years, this handy holiday checklist covers all the ski essentials. Tick them off and make sure you’re not caught short.

Travel essentials

  1. Passport
  2. Tickets  - Charge your phone!
  3. Travel insurance - Make sure it covers you for everything you plan to do on the trip. Some don't cover off-piste skiing, so make sure you have the right one for you. And have the details to hand if you need them.
  4. Details - Key ones related to where you're staying, how you're getting there, where you're collecting your lift passes and equipment.
  5. EHIC card - This will get you essential treatment at a reduced cost or free across Europe, although it isn't a substitute for travel insurance.
  6. Currency - Or access to money abroad - Monzo, Revolut, Starling or a trusty Halifax credit card. Look for something that lets you take money out abroad without charging you a fee.
  7. Snacks - For the journey.

Ski equipment

  1. Skis or snowboard - You can't beat strapping on your own trusty pair of skis, but it often costs as much to book them onto a flight as it does to rent them in resort. If you're only skiing for a weekend, it might not be worth the hassle. Then again, it just might be.
  2. Boots - Rental boots can be a pain - if you have your own, pack them. Depending how light you like to pack, you can often get your boots into your main suitcase to save handing over any more cash to Ryanair than you need to.
  3. Poles - Only worth packing if you're taking skis (which probably goes without saying). They usually come free with the skis you rent.
  4. Helmet - We always recommend customers bring their own - it's just so much nicer than wearing a rental helmet. Plus, for the price, after two trips it's pretty much paid for itself. Easy enough to rent in resort though.
  5. Goggles - Better than glasses for wind-protection and in bad light. Although they're not for everyone.
  6. Sunglasses - You don't want to be wearing goggles at lunch.
  7. Backpack - If you like packing day equipment, or you're keen enough to need the next items on the list, bring a separate back pack.
  8. Transceiver, shovel and probe - If you're going off-piste. Airbags are also encouraged. It's worth knowing how to use them, too!

Ski clothing

  1. Gloves - The warmer the better. And waterproof.
  2. Hat or beanie - For lunchtimes and evenings...
  3. Ski socks - Several pairs. You can get away with rugby/football/hockey style socks.
  4. Neck warmer, scarf or buff - Great for keeping the cold out
  5. Thermal tops - More than one ideally, they develop a scent.
  6. Thermal bottoms - If you get cold easily or your salopets aren't warm enough. Good to have the option, especially in Jan/Feb
  7. Fleeces - For warmth, obviously
  8. Salopets - Waterproof ones
  9. Ski jacket - Again, waterproof is key here.
  10. Glove liners - If it's going to be pretty cold
  11. Handwarmers - If it's going to be very cold

Other travel essentials

  1. Shoes - Comfortable shoes or boots that can handle the snow. Ideally waterproof.
  2. Swimwear - Worth packing if your chalet has a hot tub or sauna, or you want to use the local facilities.
  3. Flip flops - For any of the above
  4. Lip balm
  5. Suncream and aftersun - All season long
  6. Pyjamas
  7. Slippers
  8. Sweat pants - So nice after a day in your ski stuff!
  9. Multiplug and adaptor
  10. Chargers - For phones, laptops, kindles, electric toothbrush etc
  11. Laptop
  12. Kindle
  13. iPad
  14. Books
  15. Magazines
  16. Go Pro
  17. Earplugs
  18. Medicines
  19. Headphones
  20. Speakers
  21. Playing cards
  22. Toothpaste - (and other toiletries)
  23. Hip flask - An essential for some.
  24. Water bottle
  25. Wrist, knee or ankle supports - If you need them.