What to pack for a ski tour?
What the hell is in the backpack?! I often ask myself this when sweating under a weighty backpack on a ski tour. Over time I’ve come to pack lightly, i.e. cutting out the extras, but some things are essential items on your "What to pack in your backpack for a ski tour" list. Let’s check them out.
Basic gear
Ski tour skis
Ski tour boots
Climbing belts
Ski tour crampons to prevent slipping on icy or very hard terrain
Helmet
Emergency equipment (for off-piste ski tours in mountains)
Avalanche gear: shovel, probe, finder
First aid kit, including insulating foil
Headlamp
Clothing
UNDER LAYER:
MID LAYER, TOP LAYER FOR ASCENT
Trousers suitable for skiing
TOP LAYER FOR SUMMIT AND DESCENT
Hardshell or waterproof jacket
ACCESSORIES
Cap, headband
Multifunctional neck scarf
Thinner climbing gloves
Thicker, warm, windproof downhill gloves
Other key accessories
Thermos/insulated hydro bag
Food, energy bars, etc.
Ski tape
Mini repair tools
Swiss army knife
Map (paper), GPS, compass
Bivouac bag
Documents (in small, ideally waterproof bag) + mountain insurance
Cash
Fully-charged cell phone. Be sure to bring - you may need help at any time.
Additional equipment for difficult terrain
Crampons for ski boots
Ice axe
Rope - to secure yourself or for abseiling during the hike
Seat harness
