“I always bring a pack for comfort and emergencies - like that time in Steamboat when my son fell in a tree well.”
Frontcountry Skiing Gear List
I'm a ski instructor at Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. My ski pack generally stays at the lodge while I'm out teaching and skiing, but when we hit the slopes at larger resorts in Colorado or elsewhere, I'll keep my pack with me throughout the day. Everything I need while on the snow will be in my pack and readily accessible - whether for comfort or emergencies.
My Ski Pack
Here's the quick list of what I keep in my ski pack at my home resort and elsewhere. It is designed for frontcountry skiing ONLY! If you venture into the backcountry, you'll need a different gear set. Check it out:
- Road ID
- Whistle/compass/themometer
- Ski area map
- Soup thermos
- Water bottle
- Food
- Sunscreen
- Lighweight gloves
- Midweight gloves
- Heavyweight mittens
- Extra hat
- Facemask
- Goggles
- Extra top layer
- Multitool
- Paracord
- First aid kit
- Emergency bivy
- Fire starter kit
Packing Lunch
I'd be remiss if I didn't point out one of the greatest money saving pieces of gear you can bring - a soup thermos. This single item can be filled with soup, chili, stew, or whatever you want to keep warm. Rather than paying the sometimes absurd prices at restaurants on the mountain, you can enjoy a delicious hot lunch wherever you choose.