Winter Travel Gear Checklist: Stay Warm and Ready!

Winter adventures call for the right gear to keep you warm, safe, and ready for anything. Whether you're hitting the slopes, snowshoeing, or exploring backcountry trails, this comprehensive gear checklist for winter travel has you covered from head to toe. Let's dive into the essential items you'll need for your next winter travel adventure.

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE PDF

• Thin Synthetic Hat or Balaclava: Keep your head warm and dry with a thin, moisture-wicking hat or balaclava.
• Moisture-Wicking Long Underwear Top & Bottom: Choose polypro synthetic or wool in light, medium, or heavy weight depending on your activity level and how you handle cold temperatures.
• Liner Gloves: Thin polypro, silk, or wool gloves for an extra layer of warmth.
• Liner Socks: Thin polypro, silk, or wool socks to keep your feet warm and dry.

• Light or Medium-Weight Fleece Top: A pullover with a zip-neck for easy temperature control.
• Fleece or Insulated Vest: Adds core warmth without restricting movement.
• Light/Medium Weight Softshell: Versatile and breathable, perfect for layering.
• Wind Shirt: A light nylon layer to block the wind.
• Light Fleece Pants: Not too bulky, allowing for comfortable movement.
• Medium – Heavy Weight Wool or Synthetic-Blend Socks: Ensure they fit well with your boots, not too snug.

• Wool or Fleece Hat: Keep your head toasty in cold conditions.
• Neck Gaitor: Protects your neck and face from wind and cold.
• Neoprene Face Mask: Essential for extreme cold and windy conditions.
• Waterproof Gloves: Insulated or shell gloves to keep your hands dry.
• Waterproof/Breathable Jacket w/ Hood: Gore-Tex or equivalent material to keep you dry and warm.
• Waterproof/Breathable Pants: Look for zippers along the sides for versatility and suspenders or bibs for extra coverage.
• Gaitors: Perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to keep snow out of your boots.

• Camelback w/ Insulation: Keep your water from freezing.
• Thermos (1.5-2 liter): Hot drinks can be a lifesaver in the cold.
• Snacks/Lunch: Pack a mix of fats, sugars, protein, and carbs for energy.
• Emergency Snacks: Think Gu, Nuun, or similar quick-energy foods.

• Goggles: Amber lenses are versatile for different light conditions.
• Sunglasses w/ Strap: Protect your eyes from the glare.
• Snowsport-Specific Backpack: Designed to carry your gear efficiently.
• Sunscreen: Yes, you can get sunburned in the snow!
• Lip Balm: Keep your lips from getting chapped.
• Hand/Foot Warmers: Extra warmth when you need it.
• Anti-Fog Cloth: Keep your goggles clear.
• Ski/Snowboard Speed-Wax: For optimal performance on the slopes.
• Bandana: Versatile and useful for many situations.
• Nature Guidebooks: Learn about the area you’re exploring.

• Avalanche Transceiver: Essential for backcountry safety.
• Probe: For pinpointing buried individuals.
• Collapsible Shovel: Lightweight and easy to carry.
• Snowsaw: For cutting through snow and ice.

• Map, Compass, GPS or “Spot” (optional): Navigation tools to keep you on track.
• Whistle: For emergency signaling.
• Waterproof Lighter/Matches: For starting a fire in any condition.
• Knife (or Multi-Tool): Handy for a variety of tasks.
• Watch: Keep track of time and pace.
• Headlamp & Batteries: See and be seen in low light conditions.
• First Aid Kit (w/ Blister Kit): Be prepared for minor injuries.
• Emergency “Space” Blanket: Compact and warm.
• Repair Kit: Includes buckles, straps, cord, wire, tape, Seam-Grip, zipper parts, etc.
• Identification: Always carry your ID.

• Snowshoes: Size varies based on weight and conditions. (~15” for kids; ~20-30” for 100-150lbs; ~25-45” > 150lbs)
• Gore-Tex/Insulated Hiking Boots: Waterproof and warm for snowy conditions.
• Gaitors: A must to keep snow out of your boots.
• Telescoping/Adjustable Poles: For balance and support on uneven terrain.

Pack smart, stay warm, and enjoy your winter adventures to the fullest! With this checklist, you'll be ready for whatever winter throws your way.