A backpack provides a hands-free way to carry extra gear for a day of skiing and gives you a place to stash extra clothing and accessory you don't need all the time but like to have handy. If you're venturing into the backcountry, a backpack totes essential equipment that could save your life. Everyone has personal items she prefers in a backpack, but experts offer advice on what to pack for your ski trip.
In-Bounds
Skiing on lift-served terrain, you may not really need a backpack, but some people prefer a small pack to trying to stuff everything into the pockets of their ski jacket. Choose a smaller pack that allows you to sit comfortably on the lift. A hydration pack with an internal water bladder allows you to carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, and it's easy to drink on the go from the drinking tube. Other items to carry include lunch or snacks, sunblock and lip balm to protect you from the burning rays of sun reflected off snow, a neck gaiter or bandana for warmth, extra cash, phone, MP3 player, camera and car keys if you drove to the slopes.
Backcountry Safety
If you're hiking in the backcountry, the most important thing to go into your pack is safety equipment. Ski and mountain guide Rich Meyer recommends an avalanche probe, avalanche beacon, ice ax, climbing skins, crampons for your boots, and a snow shovel. Know how to use all of these, and set the beacon to the proper settings. You should have a map and a GPS navigation system. Sunglasses or goggles, water and sunblock could also qualify as safety equipment, since they'll help prevent snow blindness, dehydration and sunburn, all serious concerns in the backcountry.
Backcountry Extras
Once you've packed the safety gear, other items to include for a day in the backcountry include lunch and snacks, preferably food that won't crush easily, first aid kit, repair kit including duct tape and multitool, head lamp in case you get caught after dark, camera, cell phone and music system of your choice. Remember your cell phone may not always work in remote areas. Extra clothing such as an outer shell or an extra pair of gloves or mittens as well as a neck gaiter or helmet liner can help if the weather turns colder.
Packing
Choose a pack with pockets that make all your gear easy to get to. Decide if you prefer to carry your water in bottles in the pack or in a bladder system that's part of the pack. Have a dedicated pack for skiing and keep it stocked all the time. When you're ready to go, add fresh water and a lunch.
References
- "Sierra Journal"; Backcountry Ski Pack --- What Do You Carry?; Rich Meyer
- "Backcountry Skiing Skills for Ski Touring and Ski Mountaineering"; Martin Volken, Scott Schell and Margaret Wheeler; 2007
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