Preparing for a snowboarding adventure means packing much more specialized gear than a traditional vacation. From technical outerwear built for the slopes to eyewear protecting you from glare, gathering everything needed for safety and comfort requires planning. This extensive snowboard trip packing list outlines snowboard-specific apparel, equipment, electronics, and accessories for incredible days carving powder.
Contents
- 1 Snowboard Trip Packing List
- 2 Snowboard Trip Packing List PDF Download
- 3 Snowboarding Outerwear and Base Layers
- 4 Snowboard Equipment and Accessories
- 5 Snow Trip Footwear and Accessories
- 6 Backpacks, Hydration, and Nutrition
- 7 Electronics and Emergency Gear
- 8 Additional Accessories and Overlooked Items
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions
- 10 Conclusion
Snowboard Trip Packing List
| Category | Items | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Jackets and Pants | Snow jacket | ☐ |
| Snow pants | ☐ | |
| Warmer mid layers | ☐ | |
| Base Layers | Synthetic or merino wool tops | ☐ |
| Synthetic or merino wool bottoms | ☐ | |
| Helmet and Goggles | Snow helmet | ☐ |
| Goggles | ☐ | |
| Spare lens | ☐ | |
| Gloves and Accessories | Gloves | ☐ |
| Mittens | ☐ | |
| Neck gaiter | ☐ | |
| Headwear | ☐ | |
| Boots | Snowboard boots | ☐ |
| Après ski boots | ☐ | |
| Snowboard and Bindings | Snowboard | ☐ |
| Bindings | ☐ | |
| Board locks | ☐ | |
| Snowboard bag | ☐ | |
| Hydration/Nutrition | Backpack | ☐ |
| Water | ☐ | |
| Protein-rich snacks | ☐ | |
| Electronics | Action camera | ☐ |
| Batteries | ☐ | |
| Phone | ☐ | |
| Walkie-talkies | ☐ |
Snowboard Trip Packing List PDF Download
Snowboarding Outerwear and Base Layers
Properly layering high-performance snow pants and jackets matched with insulating under layers ensures warmth without restricting movement.
Snowboard Jackets and Pants
Must-have features:
- 10,000mm+ waterproofing
- Critically taped seams
-Breathability rating over 5,000g - Zip vents
- Helmet compatible hood
- Pant cuffs with internal gaiters
Focus on gear with durable water repellant (DWR) fabric coating moisture without compromising breathability. Two layer and three layer Gore-Tex and eVent shells provide best protection from wetness and wind.
For pants, full side zips allow sliding on easily over boots along with scuff guards and reinforced kick patches. Choose bright colors for visibility.
Jacket Styles
Common snowboard jacket types:
- Bombers: Short waist length
- Parkas: Longer length with powder skirt
Bomber jackets allow maximum mobility while still offering weather protection. Backcountry or freeride riders traversing deep snow prefer lengthier parkas with powder skirts preventing updraft.
Pit zips help vent body heat when working hard. Multiple pockets safely store gear externally while internal media pockets protect electronics.
Base and Mid Layers
Wicking sweat away keeps you drier and regulates body temperature once heated from exertion.
Moisture wicking base layer options:
- Synthetic fabrics: Polyester, nylon
- Merino wool
Mid layer types:
- Fleece jackets/hoodies
- Down or PrimaLoft insulated pieces
Polyester blends dry quickly if sweaty while Merino wool insulates even when damp. For mid layers, water resistant fleece resists absorbing moisture and light puffer style jackets add warmth without weight.
Snowboard Socks
Thick, tall snowboard socks offer padding and support. Look for:
- Cushion zones guarding shins
- Flat toe seam construction
- Moisture wicking materials
SmartWool or ski/snowboard brand socks help avoid blisters while keeping feet dryer by preventing sweat buildup. Bringing multiple pairs allows changing often.
Snowboard Equipment and Accessories
Safety gear certified for snow conditions along with performance snowboard and boots are packing essentials.
Snowboard and Bindings
Your board will take a beating so quality gear lasting many seasons is key. Seek out:
- Durable sintered bases
- Stainless steel edges
- Woodcore lightweight construction
All mountain twin tip boards work well for various skill levels and conditions. More advanced riders invest in specific boards for deep powder, park tricks, jumps and spins based on personal preferences.
Make sure bindings properly fit your chosen boots and are adjusted for flex, forward lean and responsiveness. Strap into all gear at home to ensure comfort before arriving at the slopes.
Snowboard Width and Length
Determine ideal board dimensions based on:
- Height/weight
- Boot sole length
- Riding style/skill level
While sizing charts provide baselines, snowboarding engages muscles differently than standing flat on a floor. Demo a few boards first to feel what works best carving downhill versus floating in powder.
Snowboard Boots
Stiff soles improve edge control while resisting pressure from bindings. Seek out heat moldable liners packing out to your feet.
Must have features:
- Quick lace systems
- Deep heel cup for stability
- Shock absorption
Trying on boots while wearing proper snowboard socks ensures a snug yet comfortable fit. Breaking in new boots at home minimizes discomfort working out initial kinks.
Snowboarding Helmet
Protecting your head is vital when flying downhill and catching big air.
Look for:
- Lightweight in-mold or hardshell construction
- Multi directional impact protection (MIPS technology)
- Ventilation slots
- Optional headphones and visors
Bring your goggles to test for helmet compatibility ensuring proper coverage, fit, and lack of gaps. While rental helmets are available at most resorts, consistency using your own well fitting protection is preferable.
Snow Goggles
Defending eyes from wind, snow glare, freezing temperatures, and tree branch hazards is crucial.
Must have attributes:
- 100% UV protection
- Anti-fog lenses
- Enlarged peripheral views
- Dual lens technology
- Strap stability
Consider packing a spare lens if riding days transition from sunny skies to fully socked in cloud cover and vice versa. The same goggles frame accommodates clear or tinted interchangeable replacements based on conditions. Photochromic adaptive tint is another all purpose option.
Ice Scraper, Locks, and Leashes
Transport and protect your gear with:
- Hard travel snowboard bag/case
- TSA certified locks
- Board leash attaching to front binding
- Edge tuning scraper tools
Padding and ample room provide safe transport while locked cases deter theft in airports, at lodging, or vehicles. Using board leashes prevents runaway equipment liable to damage itself or other people. Edge scrapers, wax, P-Tex repair sticks, and extra screws come in handy making quick fixes.
Snowboard Bag Features
Ideal features:
- In-line skate wheels
- Backpack shoulder straps
- Exterior/interior pockets
- Identification sleeves
Quality roller bags allow easy transportation through terminals while providing ample padding and secure storage of items needing airline protection like boots and helmets. Back straps make carrying long distances simpler.
Back Protectors and Padded Shorts
Preventing spine and tailbone injuries from wipe outs involves wearing:
- Shock absorbing padded shorts
- Hard shell back protectors
Protective shorts featuring foam pads sewn into the lining minimize bruising from falls on firm packed runs or icy half pipes. Removable back plates better disperse impact on the spine during get flung in the air and slam down hard landings.
| Snowboard Outerwear and Equipment Pack List | |
|---|---|
| Snow jacket | 1 warmer & 1 lighter optional |
| Snow pants | 1 |
| Base layers | 2-3 sets |
| Mid layers | 1-2 |
| Snowboard helmet | 1 |
| Snow goggles | 1 + extra lens |
| Gloves | 2-3 pairs |
| Socks | 5+ pairs |
| Boots | 1 |
| Snowboard | 1 |
| Bindings | 1 |
| Backpack/hydration pack | 1 |
Snow Trip Footwear and Accessories
Stay comfortable and safe both on and off snow with versatile layers and protective accessories.
Snowboard Boots vs Après Boots
Waterproof snowboard boots are too stiff and awkward off hill. Pack a second pair of cozy boots for après ski relaxing.
Après ski boot options:
- Slippers
- Light hikers
- Furry lined boots
- Casual sneakers
Prioritize flexibility and comfort over insulation when not trekking through precipitation and snow. Style plays a larger factor when hitting happy hours versus navigating black diamonds!
Gloves and Mittens
Layer hand protection swapping thinner under gloves with bulkier mittens as weather dictates.
- Under gloves: Polyester, wool blends
- Waterproof over mittens: Thinsulate lined
Multiple glove sets in breathable moisture wicking fabrics still allow finger dexterity to adjust gear, use phones, and handle items. Mittens with fold back finger sleeves boost warming when especially frigid.
Hand warmers or disposable heat packs tuck nicely into gloves preventing frozen digits without impeding circulation like over tightened gloves potentially can.
Neck Gaiters and Balaclavas
Shielding noses, mouths, ears, and heads from icy winds requires coverage beyond jackets with:
- Fleece lined neoprene neck gaiters
- Soft breathable balaclavas
Look for tubular neck gaiters with moisture wicking fabric that easily pulls over heads to swath lower faces in warmth. Full head balaclavas better protect from more extensive exposure.
Sunglasses and Ski Retainers
Guard eyes from sun glare and prevent losing shades downhill by packing:
- 100% UVA/UVB protective lenses
- Sport frames with side vents
- Retention cords/straps
Those needing vision correction can purchase RX sunglass inserts for goggle frames instead of constantly switching between two sets of eyewear. Side shields boost protection from wind, blowing snow and debris often experienced skiing faster speeds.
Backpacks, Hydration, and Nutrition
Remaining energized and hydrated all day prevents fatigue interfering with fully enjoying each run.
Day Packs and Hydration
Features to allow easy access while riding lifts uphill:
- External attachment system securing board vertically
- Insulated water bladder hose ports accessible mid-wear
- Hip straps stabilizing pack bouncing downhill
Integrated snowboard carry systems provide hands free transportation after unstrapping from bindings post-run. This leaves poles free to navigate cat walks and lift lines.
Sipping frequently from a hydration reservoir or water bottle combats dehydration in cold, dry mountain conditions. Pack high protein trail mix or filling sandwiches providing lasting energy over candy bars.
Electronics and Emergency Gear
Technology enhances safety while also capturing glorious footage bombing runs at top speed!
Cameras and Mounts
Immortalize awesome moments hitting kickers and tree runs with:
- Action camcorders: GoPro style
- Camera drone following downhill
Mount cameras low profile and secure to mitigate wind resistance and turbulence orbiting terrain at fast velocities. Consider wrist straps or tethers preventing expensive electronics from zooming into orbit after huge crashes!
Emergency Tools
Remaining safe if injured in remote backcountry involves carrying:
- Fully charged phone
- Whistle signaling location
- Light reflecting pocket blanket
- First aid basics: Bandages, gauze pads
Downed riders can quickly develop hypothermia if stranded long term with exposure injuries away from groomed trails. Stay found!
Walkie Talkies and Trackers
Maintain group communication off grid exploring side and back country zones using:
- Long range two way radios
- GPS enabled tracking devices
Paired with detailed topographical trail maps on phones or dedicated devices, riders can pinpoint positions in emergency scenarios. Most importantly, keep friends updated on planned routes if splitting up and establish check in protocols.
Additional Accessories and Overlooked Items
Locks and Gear Storage
Protect valuable snowboarding equipment left unattended using:
- Individual board locks: retractable cable chains
- Bag/boot locks deterring theft
- Hotel safe or secured locker
Lock board to racks by vehicles/lodging using separate cable locks. Never leave items completely unsecured outside. Some resorts offer complimentary overnight indoor storage areas.
Sleeping Gear
Accommodating various lodging options requires:
- Travel blanket/pillow
- Sleep sheet/liner protecting rental beds
- Sleep masks and ear plugs
Even luxe ski in/out hotels can run hot or noisy. Ensure peaceful sleep in new environments using trusted pillows and blankets you packed along with budget friendly options available at most major resort shops. Sleep sheet liners provide sanitary barriers when utilizing shared property rentals between guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important pieces of gear for safety?
The snowboarding helmet protects heads from traumatic brain injuries after crashing and slamming slopes at high velocities. High quality snow goggles prevent permanent eye damage while also improving vision facing snow glare. Technically engineered outerwear keeps core temperatures regulated in extreme alpine conditions. Lastly, properly fitted board bindings align gear mechanics suited to individual riding styles preventing twisted knees or other orthopedic harm.
Should I ship my snowboard versus bringing on the plane?
Checking gear including snowboards may make sense for international destinations although fees add up quickly. For domestic trips, invest in padded board case with wheels that meets airline size requirements for standard baggage procedures. This allows keeping your equipment consistently handy for trips focused entirely around snowboarding activities. Carefully packing boards and dismantling bindings protects functional integrity in transit.
What clothing fabrics best regulate temperature while riding?
The highest performance technical shells and base layers utilize proprietary synthetic fabric blends that both insulate body heat while actively wicking moisture. Top picks include GoreTex, eVent, NeoShell, PolarTec fleece, Thermoball, and Primaloft. Merino wool also naturally wicks away sweat while retaining warmth if damp. Focus on pieces with 10K plus waterproofing, full seam taping, and breathability ratings over 5K.
Should I purchase snow gear or rent on site?
Visiting resorts annually makes buying personal snowboarding jackets, pants, performance layers, and accessories worthwhile for consistency. Budget friendly items like goggles, gloves, and helmets also easily transport in luggage to cut rental desk costs. Consider demoing boards first before buying as personal preferences change over time depending on terrain and evolving skill levels. Boots remain tricky to size properly at home.
Conclusion
Compiling all snowboarding gear, apparel, and essentials mentioned above prevents any unwanted surprises when arriving eager to attack legendary slopes and back bowls. Over preparing with versatile layers accommodating unpredictable mountain weather ultimately avoids spending premium prices for rentals at resort shops. Keeping critical safety protection like helmets and goggles with you ensures properly sized trustworthy equipment defense against hazardous conditions not guaranteed with one size fits all rentals.
By confirming all documents, checklists, and contingencies ahead of time, the journey becomes straightforward allowing maximizing every precious second enjoying unmatched views and terrain instead of scrambling to secure forgotten items. After smoothly navigating travel logistics, breathtaking vistas filled with acres of pristine powder unfold rewarded by diligently packing everything required for an epic snowboarding escape!
Additional Packing Resources: