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Swedish Tourist Association
Group on a multi-day ski tour pulling sleds across a snowy mountain landscape.

Packing list backcountry skiing – multi-day trip

A multi-day backcountry ski tour takes you deep into the winter landscape, and you need to carry everything required for both the days on the mountain and the nights in cabins or at a mountain station. With the right packing, the trip becomes both safer and more enjoyable—whether you’re travelling between mountain cabins or planning your own stages.

When you’re out for several days, higher demands are placed on both equipment and planning. You’ll need clothing for changing weather conditions and enough food and energy for the entire trip. At the same time, it’s important to pack smart—a well-balanced backpack makes it easier to move in the snow and go further. With a well-thought-out pack, you’ll have better conditions to enjoy your days on skis and your evenings in the mountain environment.

Packing list backcountry skiing – multi-day trip

Equipment

  1. Backcountry skis with steel edges (preferably waxless, approx. 5–6 cm wide with stable bindings)
  2. Ski boots
  3. Poles (with large baskets, approx. 10 cm+)
  4. Climbing skins (short or full-length)
  5. Ski wax and waxing cork (if not using waxless skis)
  6. Backpack approx. 35–50 L with hip belt (read more about choosing the right backpack here)
  7. Sit pad or sleeping pad
  8. Headlamp
  9. Power bank (no electricity in mountain cabins)
  10. Camera (optional)
  11. Waste bag

Safety

  1. Map and compass
  2. First aid kit
  3. Blister tape (e.g. sports tape, Leukoplast, or Compeed)
  4. Sun protection

Clothing

  1. Two base layers (one for skiing and one dry set to change into)
  2. Mid layer, e.g. fleece or softshell
  3. Warm sweater in fleece or wool
  4. Windproof trousers
  5. Wind- and waterproof jacket or anorak (preferably with a spacious hood)
    Insulation layer, e.g. a warm jacket with down or synthetic filling
  6. At least two pairs of ski socks (preferably liner + thicker outer sock)
  7. Hat
  8. Scarf or buff
  9. Gloves or mittens (one thinner pair and one warmer pair)
  10. Gaiters
  11. Sunglasses and ski goggles

Food and drink

  1. Water bottle
  2. Thermos and/or food thermos
  3. Food and energy for the trip (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks)
  4. Cutlery, cup or mug, and bowl or plate
  5. Camping stove or gas stove (if needed)
  6. Bags to carry out your waste

Hygiene

  1. Personal toiletries (e.g. soap, toothbrush, and toothpaste)
  2. Travel towel
  3. Personal medication

For overnight stays in cabins or mountain stations

  1. Sleeping liner and pillowcase, or a light sleeping bag (comfort temp approx. 0°C). (Note: You must always bring a sheet and pillowcase, even if using a sleeping bag. Duvets and pillows are provided in the cabins.)
  2. Sleepwear
  3. Change of clothes for your stay
  4. Indoor slippers
  5. Earplugs (useful in shared dorm rooms)

Packing tips for backcountry skiing

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 cabins

Staying overnight in one of our mountain cabins is perfect for those who want to venture a bit further into the mountains. There is no electricity or running water, making the experience a stark contrast to everyday stress.

STF Mountain shops

STF makes it possible to stock up along your mountain trek. In selected mountain cabins, you’ll find shops offering essential and popular products – carefully chosen to suit the mountain environment and support sustainable outdoor life.

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.