What should you pack for your ski holiday?

Your ski holiday is approaching, as is the all-important task of packing your luggage. Stressful and exciting at the same time, it'd be easier to pack everything and not have to choose!

Being prepared for all eventualities without your suitcase bursting is the goal I'm offering to help you achieve with this list of essentials to pack before setting off.

The essentials:

• Ski jacket (preferably warm, but you can experiment with layers)
• Ski trousers
• Middle layer (a fleece for example)
• 1st layer (worn directly against the skin)
• Ski socks (minimum of two pairs)
• Ski gloves (warm and waterproof)
• Hat or headband
• Ski goggles
• Sun cream and SPF lip balm
• Passport and European health insurance if you're visiting from abroad.

I recommend Merino wool for any clothing layers worn directly against the skin, it's warm, comfortable to wear and doesn't trap body odour... much nicer for your friends in the apartment!

This is the bare minimum you will need to bring, but you can supplement this list with the following for more comfort:

Clothing and equipment:

• Small rucksack for day-to-day items
• Sunglasses
• Different lenses for your ski goggles so you can adapt to visibility conditions
• Ski helmet
• A flask or a bottle of water (it is important to stay well hydrated at high altitude)
• Lightweight gloves for après-ski activities
• Swimsuit
• Boots or substantial shoes for après-ski activities. Preferably warm, waterproof and with decent studs.

Protective gear:

• Back protector (useful for experienced snowpark users)
• Wrist and kneepads (useful for snowboarding beginners)
• A pack including a DVA avalanche rescue device, a shovel and a telescopic probe; all essential if you are planning to ski off piste.

Electronic equipment:

• Camera
• GoPro-style on-board camera. If you have one, check out our tips for setting up your GoPro.
• Smartphone (loaded with the 3 Vallées mobile app)

Don't forget to pack chargers and extra batteries as they don't hold their charge for as long in the cold weather.

Obviously, this list isn't exhaustive and we'd like to know what you bring with you during your holiday.