Photo Credit By: Robert | www.robertvandijk.com

A ski getaway is the perfect mix of an active holiday with some relaxation and partying thrown in – that’s why, when it comes to packing, you need to think beyond the usual skiwear necessities. Here are five essentials you must pack before hitting the slopes – on top of the usual ski jackets, snowboard/skis and goggles.

Layers

Your outerwear is important. It needs to be waterproof, durable and make you stand out on the mountain – your skiwear will be how people recognise you, so avoid anything white because it will just get dirty and make you blend in to the landscape.

However, items for layering are also essential when heading off to the slopes, and should consist of a thermal base layer, followed by a breathable mid layer, finished off with your outwear.

Sun cream and lip balm

It’s very easy to get burnt up on the mountain; the sun shines most days in ski season and causes glare on the snow, leading to a red face if you don’t slap on enough sun cream.

You should also carry some lip balm with you. While you might attempt to stay as hydrated as possible throughout the day your lips can end up dry and chapped from the cold, so some relief from a good balm will improve your comfort.

Swimwear

You never know when the opportunity to jump in a hot tub might arise – especially if you don’t have one in your chalet – so it’s imperative you take your swimwear along with you in your luggage.

A cheap watch

It’s easy to lose track of time while out on the slope so pick up a cheap wristwatch that you don’t mind losing/breaking/getting scratched, to wear on your holiday and keep an eye on the time. The last thing you want is to miss the final ski lift down and have to pay out an extortionate amount of money for a taxi.

High quality gloves and socks

Your extremities are going to get chilly pretty quickly if you don’t keep them protected, so it’s important you pack high quality gloves and socks for those long days on the slopes. Choose socks that don’t feature any seams, because your boots will press on these and cause discomfort throughout the day. When it comes to gloves there are hundreds of options out there but you should look for a pair that feature:

• Insulation – look for gloves that feature some sort of insulation technology.
• Cinch straps – so you can tighten your gloves at the wrists with one pull.
• Goggle wiper – some gloves feature rubber or suede on the thumb or index finger that allow you to wipe your goggles clean.
• Waterproof – you don’t want a pair of soggy gloves by the end of the day.
• Wrist leashes – much like when you were a child and your mum sewed your mittens onto your school coat, these will ensure you don’t lose them while whizzing down the slopes.

Some gloves even feature inbuilt heat technology, so if you feel like treating yourself they only cost $374, which roughly equates to £245 – that definitely counts as a big splurge!