What to Pack — Ski Trip Kit List
Sauze d'Oulx sits at 1,510m with skiing up to 2,820m. Packing correctly makes a huge difference to your comfort — and forgetting key items in resort is expensive. Use this list to make sure you have everything covered.
What to hire, what to bring
Hire in resort (pre-book online): Skis/snowboard, ski boots, poles, helmet (if you don't own one)
Bring from home: Everything in this list — clothing, goggles, sun cream, accessories. Buying these in resort costs significantly more than at home or online.
🧥 Clothing (layering system)
Effective ski clothing uses three layers. The system works because air trapped between layers insulates, and you can adjust warmth by adding or removing layers.
Base layer (next to skin)
- •Thermal top — merino wool or synthetic
- •Thermal leggings / long johns
- •2–3 pairs of ski-specific socks (key: they must reach the knee and be padded at the shin)
Cotton is not suitable as a base layer — it stays wet and gets cold. Use merino or a quality synthetic.
Mid layer (insulation)
- •Fleece or down jacket / gilet
- •Warm mid-layer trousers if you run cold (optional)
This layer traps heat. A packable down gilet is versatile — it packs small and you can remove it when skiing hard.
Outer layer (shell)
- •Waterproof ski jacket (taped seams)
- •Waterproof ski trousers / salopettes
- •Ski gloves or mittens (waterproof essential)
- •Neck gaiter or buff
- •Thin warm hat for under helmet
The outer layer must be waterproof, not just water-resistant. Salopettes (bib trousers) prevent snow getting in at the back when you fall.
🎿 On-slope essentials
Ski helmet
Non-negotiable for safety. Can be hired in resort, but owning one is more hygienic and comfortable.
Ski goggles
Essential for overcast days, wind and falling snow. Lens tint matters — low-light lenses for flat light days.
Sun cream SPF 50+
UV radiation at altitude is intense. Apply before going out, even on cloudy days. Reapply mid-day.
Lip balm with SPF
Chapped, burned lips are painful. Apply every time you apply sun cream.
Sunglasses
For clear spring days when goggles feel too warm. Also for walking around the village.
Hand/toe warmers
Chemical heat packs for very cold days or if you suffer from cold extremities. Available in resort but cheaper from home.
Small backpack
Useful for carrying an extra layer, snacks, water, sun cream on the mountain.
Water bottle
Altitude causes dehydration. Skiing is physical exercise. Drink more than you think you need to.
🎒 Practical items
Travel insurance documents
Must cover skiing and mountain rescue. Print a copy and save a photo on your phone.
EHIC / GHIC card
EU/UK health card. Provides access to state medical treatment in Italy.
Passport or national ID
Check validity — must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Travel adapter (Italy)
Italy uses Type L (3-pin) and Type C (2-pin round) plugs. Most UK adapters include these.
Blister plasters
Ski boots can cause blisters, especially on day one. Compeed or similar in your luggage is useful.
Pain relief
Ibuprofen for muscle soreness. Paracetamol. A small first aid kit.
Microfibre towel
Not all accommodation provides towels — confirm before travel.
Portable charger
Cold temperatures drain phone batteries quickly — useful for a full day on the mountain.
Shop ski gear on Amazon
Find base layers, goggles, helmets, gloves, ski socks and more. Buying before you travel is significantly cheaper than purchasing in resort.
Shop ski gear on Amazon →Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Don't forget to pre-book your hire equipment
Skis, boots, poles and helmets are all available to hire in resort — but pre-booking online saves 20–40% compared to walk-in prices. Book as soon as your travel is confirmed. Equipment hire guide →