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Going on a ski trip is exciting but packing for it can feel overwhelming. You need warm clothes, bulky boots, layers for changing mountain weather, and gear for après-ski fun… all while trying not to check a bag (to avoid fees, lost luggage, or waiting at baggage claim).
Good news: you can fit everything you need for a 5-day ski trip into one medium duffel bag. No suitcase, no second bag, no stress.
This simple, step-by-step packing list is designed for real people who want to travel light, stay warm, and still look good in the lodge photos. It’s based on years of ski trips, tested by frequent travelers, and optimized for carry-on or overhead bin space.
Let’s break it down.
Why Pack in Just One Duffel?
- Save money: Avoid airline baggage fees ($30–$60+ each way).
- Save time: Skip the baggage carousel and head straight to the slopes.
- Stay flexible: Easy to carry on shuttles, buses, or up snowy walkways.
- Less to lose: One bag = fewer chances of something going missing.
A medium duffel (40–50 liters) is perfect. Brands like Patagonia Black Hole , The North Face Base Camp , or even Amazon Basics work great.
The Golden Rule: Layer Smartly
Skiing isn’t just about being cold. It’s about managing sweat, wind, sun, and sudden temperature swings. The key is three layers:
- Base layer (moisture-wicking)
- Mid layer (insulating—fleece or down)
- Outer layer (waterproof shell)
You don’t need 5 sets of these. With smart planning, 2–3 of each is enough for 5 days.
Your Complete 5-Day Ski Packing List (One Duffel Only)
Outerwear (Wear These on Travel Day!)
- Ski jacket (waterproof, breathable) – wear this on the plane
- Ski pants – wear these too
- Ski gloves or mittens – pack in your personal item or wear
- Neck gaiter or balaclava – lightweight, fits in pocket
- Sunglasses + ski goggles – carry goggles in your daypack or personal item
Pro tip: Wear your bulkiest items (jacket, pants, boots if possible) while traveling. This saves huge space in your duffel.
Base & Mid Layers (Pack These)
- 3 moisture-wicking base layer tops (merino wool or synthetic – Smartwool or Uniqlo Heattech )
- 2 base layer bottoms
- 2 fleece or insulated mid-layer tops (e.g., Patagonia R1 or similar)
- 1 lightweight puffy jacket (for après-ski or extra cold days – packable down like Arc’teryx Cerium or REI Co-op 650) )
You’ll rotate these. Base layers go in the wash (or air out) every 1–2 days. Mid layers last longer.
Bottoms & Casual Clothes
- 1 pair of jeans or casual pants (for dinners/lounging)
- 2–3 pairs of warm socks (Darn Tough ski socks are durable and odor-resistant)
- 3–4 regular underwear
- 1 set of sleepwear
- 1 long-sleeve casual top (for non-ski days or layering)
Skip extra sweaters. They take up space. Use your puffy or fleece instead.
Footwear
- Ski boots – wear these or strap them to your duffel
- 1 pair of comfortable, waterproof shoes (for walking around town – e.g., Sorel Joan of Arctic )
- Flip-flops or slides (for hostel/hotel showers – optional but handy)
Most airlines allow ski boots as part of your “ski equipment” without extra fees, even if you’re not checking a bag. Check your airline policy first!
Small Essentials (Pack in a Toiletry Bag or Packing Cube)
- Toiletries (travel-sized shampoo, toothbrush, deodorant – use solid bars to save liquid space)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) – mountain sun is intense!
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand warmers (disposable or reusable – Zippo or HotHands )
- Phone charger + power bank
- Reusable water bottle (insulated like Hydro Flask )
- Small first-aid kit (blister pads, pain relievers, bandages)
Pro move: Freeze your water bottle overnight. It acts as a cold pack and melts into drinking water by afternoon.
Optional But Helpful
- Camera or GoPro (if not using your phone)
- Book or e-reader
- Earbuds or headphones
- Travel towel (quick-dry, compact – Rainleaf )
What NOT to Pack (Common Mistakes)
- Too many outfits: You’ll be in ski gear 90% of the time.
- Hairdryer or straightener: Most lodges have them; they’re heavy and use lots of space.
- Full-size toiletries: Not allowed in carry-ons and unnecessary.
- Multiple pairs of jeans: One is plenty.
- Heavy books or bulky souvenirs: Buy those on the way home if needed.
How to Pack It All in One Duffel
- Roll soft items (base layers, t-shirts, socks) – saves space and reduces wrinkles.
- Use packing cubes (Eagle Creek or Amazon Basics ) to separate clean/dirty or categories.
- Stuff socks inside gloves or shoes to fill dead space.
- Place fragile items (goggles, water bottle) in the center, surrounded by clothes.
- Keep your ski pass, ID, and lip balm in an outer pocket for easy access.
- Leave 10% room for souvenirs or wet gear on the way back.
Aim for under 50 lbs (23 kg) so it’s easy to lift into overhead bins or carry uphill.
Final Checklist Before You Zip It Up
✅ Ski jacket & pants (worn or packed)
✅ 3 base layer tops, 2 bottoms
✅ 2 mid-layers + 1 puffy
✅ 3–4 socks, 3–4 underwear
✅ 1 casual outfit
✅ Ski boots (worn or strapped on)
✅ Waterproof shoes
✅ Toiletries + sunscreen + lip balm
✅ Gloves, neck gaiter, goggles
✅ Reusable water bottle
✅ Phone + charger
If you have all that, you’re ready!
Bonus: What to Do When You Arrive
- Air out damp base layers overnight near a heater (not on direct heat!).
- Use hotel laundry if available, many mountain towns have quick-service laundromats.
- Keep dirty/wet clothes in a separate dry bag (like Sea to Summit ) so they don’t ruin clean items on the return trip.
You’ve Got This!
Packing light for a ski trip is about smart choices. With this list, you’ll stay warm, dry, and stylish without lugging around three bags.
And when you breeze past the baggage claim while others wait? That’s the real win.
Now go enjoy those powder days and don’t forget to send us a photo from the summit!
Shop recommended gear:
Happy skiing! 🎿
