Group of people ski touring across a snowy mountain landscape.

Packing list backcountry skiing – day trip

A day trip on backcountry skis takes you straight into the winter mountains, far from groomed tracks and lift queues. With the right packing, the trip becomes both safer and more enjoyable—whether you’re heading out for a short outing or a full day.

Winter conditions place special demands on both equipment and clothing. You need to stay warm during breaks while avoiding getting too sweaty when skiing. Pack for changing weather, bring enough energy and warm drinks, and remember that margins are smaller in cold conditions. With a well-planned backpack, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy the silence, the snow, and the mountain landscape.

Packing list backcountry skiing – day trip

Equipment

Backcountry skis (preferably waxless with steel edges, approx. 5–6 cm wide with stable bindings)
Ski boots
Poles (with large baskets, approx. 10 cm+)
Climbing skins (short or full-length)
Ski wax and waxing cork (if not using waxless skis)
Backpack approx. 35–50 L with hip belt (read more about choosing the right backpack here)
Sit pad or sleeping pad
Sunglasses and ski goggles
Camera (optional)
Headlamp
Toilet paper and a waste bag

Safety

Map and compass
First aid kit
Blister tape (e.g. sports tape, Leukoplast, or Compeed)
Sun protection
Toilet paper

Clothing

Base layers
Mid layer, e.g. fleece or softshell
Shell garments without insulation (jacket with a spacious hood)
Insulation layer, e.g. a warm jacket with down or synthetic filling
Hat and optionally a headband or buff
At least two pairs of ski socks (preferably wool blend)
Two pairs of gloves or mittens
Sunglasses and ski goggles

Food and drink

Thermos and water bottle
Cup
Packed lunch and energy for the trip

If staying at a mountain station

Clothes and change of clothes for your stay
Slippers
Toiletries

Packing tips for backcountry skiing

Pack light. In addition to your personal gear, you’ll need to carry food, and on guided STF tours also shared safety equipment. Bring as few changes of clothes as possible and choose small travel-sized toiletries. A reasonable pack weight is around 10–14 kg.
Test-pack at home. Pack your backpack well in advance and try carrying it on a longer walk or ski tour. You’ll quickly notice if anything needs adjusting.
Think about hydration. Drink regularly—dehydration quickly makes you tired and cold. Bring a thermos, water bottle, and cup. A useful tip is to place your water bottle in a wool sock or mitten to reduce the risk of it freezing.

Person sitting on a hillside next to a backpack overlooking a mountain valley.

Don’t have your own equipment?

Rent instead of buying! You can rent equipment at many of our mountain stations. As an STF member, you also get discounts on outdoor gear and sportswear at Outdoor Buddies—great for both your wallet and the environment.

Your membership benefits

More pages for you

STF Mountain stations

STF’s mountain stations are the starting point for wonderful mountain experiences. Here, you can choose your own level of comfort and price. You make your own bed with your own sheets or rent them on-site.

Nordic ski touring

Have you hiked in the mountains before and are curious about what a mountain adventure is like in winter? Then ski touring is a wonderful way to find out.

The layer on layer principle

The primary function of clothing is to keep you dry, warm, and protected. By dressing in multiple thin layers, you can easily adjust your clothing when the weather changes.