What to Pack for a Day on the Slopes: Don’t Forget These Essentials

Whether you're shredding down the slopes or cruising through fresh powder, being prepared for a day on the mountain is key to having an epic experience. From the right gear to essential accessories, knowing what to pack can make or break your time on the slopes. Here are the must-haves for a successful day of skiing or snowboarding, the gear our staff actually uses, and the top spots near Portland and around Oregon to hit the mountains.

1. Base layers

Start with solid moisture-wicking base layers. You’ll want a lightweight, breathable fabric that keeps you warm without getting too hot. Merino wool or synthetic blends are your go-to options. They’ll help regulate your body temperature and keep you dry, even when you're working up a sweat. Don’t forget your thermal leggings, too!

Helly HansenLifa Merino Midweight CrewMerino-blend top that wicks and stays warm Helly HansenLifa Merino Midweight PantThermal leggings for under ski pants Helly HansenW Lifa Merino Midweight CrewWomen's merino base top Helly HansenW Lifa Merino Midweight PantWomen's merino base bottom Wilderness TechnologyBase Layer Top (Women's)Budget-friendly synthetic base layer

2. Mid layers

Mid layers are where you trap heat. A fleece jacket, light puffy or insulated hoodie keeps your core warm while giving you flexibility for movement. Choose layers you can easily add or remove as weather changes through the day.

PatagoniaM's Durable Down HoodyWarm down layer for cold chairlift days PatagoniaW's Durable Down HoodyWomen's down mid layer

3. Ski jacket and pants

Your outerwear should be waterproof and breathable. Look for gear that’s designed to handle the wet and windy conditions typical of Oregon’s winter weather. Ski and snowboard jackets with snow skirts and underarm vents are game-changers for comfort. For pants, reinforced cuffs protect against damage from ski edges and snowboards.

PatagoniaM's Powder Town JacketWaterproof shell with a powder skirt PatagoniaW's Insulated Powder Town JacketInsulated waterproof jacket 686Women's Hologram Shell JacketSnowboard shell for layering 686Men's Dojo 20K Pant20K waterproof snow pant Helly HansenW Emiko Shell Bib PantBib keeps snow out on deep days

4–5. Helmet and goggles

Safety first! A helmet is non-negotiable for protecting your noggin, and goggles are essential for visibility when snow starts flying. Pick goggles with interchangeable lenses if light conditions change throughout the day, which they almost always do on Mt. Hood.

GiroNeo II MIPS HelmetMIPS protection, adjustable vents GiroLedge MIPS HelmetDurable, great value SmithDescend MIPS HelmetLightweight MIPS helmet GiroAxis GoggleMagnetic quick-change lenses GiroArticle II GoggleIncludes a bonus low-light lens

6. Gloves or mittens

Keep your hands toasty with insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens. Mittens tend to be warmer, while gloves give you better dexterity. Some even have touchscreen-compatible fingertips for photos on the chairlift.

Wilderness TechnologyPro MittsWarm, affordable mittens 686Men's GORE-TEX Linear GloveWaterproof GORE-TEX glove 686Women's GORE-TEX Linear GloveWomen's waterproof glove HestraFall Line GloveLeather glove built to last seasons GrabberBody Warmer 8-PackBackup heat for frigid days

7. Socks

Wool or synthetic ski socks keep your feet warm and dry without adding bulk. Wear one thin-to-medium pair, not two, and stay away from cotton: it holds moisture and makes your feet cold.

SmartwoolSki Targeted Cushion OTC SocksMerino with padding where boots rub Fox RiverArapahoe Ultralight OTC SocksThin ski sock for a snug boot fit

8–11. The small stuff

• Neck gaiter or balaclava: protects your face and neck from windburn and cold while letting you breathe.
• Small backpack: carries water, snacks, an extra layer or a camera. Make sure it's secure on the lift.
• Snacks and hydration: granola bars, jerky or trail mix, plus a collapsible bottle or hydration pack.
• Sun protection: UV reflects off snow even on cloudy days. Bring face sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
• Lift pass and ID: many resorts use RFID passes, so keep yours in a pocket where it can scan.

Top ski and snowboard spots near Portland, Oregon

• Mt. Hood Meadows: about a 90-minute drive from Portland, with over 2,150 acres of terrain for every level.
• Timberline Lodge: known for one of the longest ski seasons in North America, often running from fall into summer. Great for beginners and seasoned riders.
• Mt. Hood Skibowl: the closest Mt. Hood area to Portland, with extensive night skiing and a tubing hill for non-skiers.
• Mt. Bachelor: farther out near Bend, with roughly 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain. Worth the road trip for a big-mountain experience.

Gear up at Next Adventure

Shop everything above online, or stop by our store on Grand Avenue in Portland's Central Eastside on your way out to Mt. Hood. Our staff can help with boot fitting, helmet and goggle fit, and ski and snowboard tuning so you're ready for your first run.

Ski day packing FAQ

What should I wear skiing for the first time?

A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid layer, a waterproof jacket and pants, one pair of wool or synthetic ski socks, a helmet, goggles and waterproof gloves. Avoid cotton and jeans.

How many layers should I wear skiing?

Usually three: a base layer, a mid layer and a waterproof shell. Add or remove the mid layer based on temperature.

Should I wear two pairs of socks in ski boots?

No. One thin-to-medium wool or synthetic ski sock gives the best warmth, fit and circulation.

Do I need goggles or are sunglasses OK?

Goggles. They protect against wind, snow and impact, seal with your helmet, and a low-light lens helps on flat-light days.

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