What to bring
Ski packing on a budget
What to hire, what to borrow and what is worth buying, plus a packing checklist that keeps the luggage fees down.
You do not need to spend hundreds on new kit to go skiing. Most first-timers and occasional skiers hire skis, boots and helmets in resort and build their own clothing from things they already own.
The big question
Hire, borrow or buy?
| Item | Our budget advice |
|---|---|
| Skis or snowboard | Hire in resort. Airlines often charge extra to carry skis, and hire lets you swap if conditions change. |
| Ski boots | Hire for your first trips. If you ski every year, well-fitted boots are often the first thing worth buying. |
| Helmet | Hire or buy. A helmet is cheap insurance for your head, so do not skip it. |
| Jacket and trousers | Borrow or buy second-hand. Waterproof is the key feature. |
| Base layers | Use sports tops and leggings you already own, avoiding cotton. |
| Goggles and gloves | Buy. These are personal, fairly cheap and make a big difference to comfort. |
Layering with what you already own
Staying warm is about layers, not one expensive jacket.
Base layer
A close-fitting top and leggings in synthetic fabric or merino wool. Avoid cotton because it stays wet.
Mid layer
A fleece or thin insulated jacket. Most people already own something that works.
Outer layer
A waterproof, windproof jacket and trousers. This is where to spend if you spend anywhere.
Where to find cheap kit
Friends and family
Ask around before you buy. Ski clothing often sits unused in lofts for years.
Second-hand
Online marketplaces and local ski swap events are good for jackets and trousers.
Supermarket ranges
Some UK supermarkets sell budget ski clothing in the autumn. Fine for an occasional trip.
End-of-season sales
If you know you will go again, buy in spring when prices drop.
Budget packing checklist
- Passport, with enough validity for your destination
- Travel insurance with winter sports cover, and a GHIC for EU countries
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Two sets of base layers
- Fleece or mid layer
- Ski socks (two or three pairs is enough if you wash them)
- Gloves, plus a thin liner pair
- Goggles and sunglasses
- Hat or helmet liner and a neck warmer
- High-factor sun cream and lip balm
- Refillable water bottle and a small rucksack
- Any medication and a basic first aid kit
- Phone charger and a plug adaptor
A GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) gives UK residents access to state healthcare in EU countries, but it does not cover mountain rescue or repatriation. You still need travel insurance with winter sports cover. Get your GHIC free from the official NHS website, never a paid third-party site.
Luggage
Save on luggage
Check your airline’s baggage rules before you pack. If you are hiring skis and boots, you may be able to travel with a single checked bag, or hand luggage plus a bag shared between two. Wear your bulkiest layers on the plane.
All packed?
Read the latest money-saving guides before you book.