Before You Fly
The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing Checklist
Whatever's arriving from us, your suitcase still needs a plan. Here's the packing list we give our own clients before a ski trip, split into what to bring, what to rent, and what's easy to forget until you're standing in the snow without it.
Start With Layers
The Three Layers That Actually Matter
Every good ski outfit comes down to three layers working together. A moisture-wicking base layer against your skin, an insulating mid-layer such as fleece or lightweight down, and a waterproof, breathable outer layer on top, whether that's your ski suit or a jacket and pants. Pack at least two base layers so you always have a dry one, and bring a spare mid-layer if your trip runs longer than a few days.
If you're renting your outer layer through our luxury skiwear hire service, that's the piece you don't need to plan around, it arrives cleaned, pressed and ready. Everything below is what's worth packing yourself, or booking alongside your rental.
Knowing what to wear skiing changes a little depending on where you're headed too. A cold, dry Japan powder day calls for heavier insulation than a mild, sunny afternoon at Perisher, so it's worth reading the destination-specific notes further down before you finalise your list.
Bring From Home
Base layers, ski socks (thin, technical, not thick cotton), sunscreen and lip balm, sunglasses for the village, and a small day pack for the mountain.
Worth Renting Too
Helmet, goggles, gloves or mittens, a beanie for après-ski, and snow boots if you'll be walking through the village as much as skiing it.
Easy to Forget
A neck gaiter or buff, hand warmers for cold chairlift days, a waterproof phone pouch, and a change of clothes for the trip home.
Accessories Matter More Than People Think
Goggles, Gloves and Boots Deserve as Much Thought as Your Suit
A beautiful ski suit won't feel luxurious if your hands are cold or your goggles fog up on the first run. Good gloves or mittens, well-fitted goggles and proper snow boots are what actually get you through a full day on the mountain comfortably, and they're all things you can rent alongside your outer layer from our accessories collection, including goggles, snow boots and hats and beanies.
If you're not sure what size to book, our sizing guide covers fit across our full range, and our private styling service is there if you'd rather have a hand putting the whole outfit together before you fly.
"The best-dressed skier on the mountain isn't the one with the most expensive suit, it's the one who packed properly."Mariane Franca, Founder of 2nd LANE
Packing for Specific Destinations
What Changes Depending on Where You're Headed
A long day at Thredbo or Perisher can swing from bright sun to sleet within hours, so pack for both. A trip to Queenstown usually means more time walking through town between runs, so comfortable snow boots matter as much as your ski boots.
If you're heading further afield to Japan, knowing what to wear in Japan for the snow is a different exercise altogether, Hokkaido's cold is genuinely deeper and drier than an Australian or New Zealand season, so heavier insulation and low-light goggles earn their place. In Europe, altitude and glacier conditions can mean sharp temperature swings between the valley and the peak. Either way, remember your rental wardrobe travels with you rather than meeting you there, so it needs to go in the suitcase from day one and stay with you until you're back in Australia to return it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ski Trip Packing — Your Questions Answered
What should I pack for a ski trip?
At minimum: base layers, ski socks, gloves, goggles, sunscreen and a change of clothes for travel days. Your outer layer, helmet, boots and accessories can all be rented rather than packed from home.
What is the best packing list for skiing in Australia?
For Thredbo, Perisher or Queenstown, pack thermal base layers, technical ski socks, sunglasses, sunscreen and a warm beanie, and rent your ski suit, boots and goggles to save luggage space and avoid buying gear for a single trip.
Do I need different gear for Japan or Europe?
Yes. Japan's Hokkaido powder is colder and drier, so heavier insulation and low-light goggles help, while Europe's higher altitudes can bring sharp temperature swings between valley and peak. Both are covered by our luxury skiwear hire collection.
Can I rent ski accessories, not just the suit?
Yes. Helmets, goggles, gloves, beanies and snow boots are all available in our accessories collection, so your entire outfit can be arranged in one booking.
Ready to Pack?
Sort the Outfit First, Then the Suitcase
Booking your ski suit, jacket or accessories before you pack means you know exactly what's arriving and what you still need to bring, so there's no last-minute scramble the night before you fly.
MARIANE FRANCA
Founder, 2nd LANE