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Hike - Ski - Paddle
 
Trips & Checklists

Skiing/Snowboarding Checklist

Gear choices
  • Skis, snowboard
  • Boots
  • Poles
  • Goggles
  • Helmet
  • Ski wax, skin wax, waxing tools
  • Pack
Back Country Skiing and Snowboarding Necessities
  • Avalanche transceiver
  • Snow shovel
  • Probe
  • Slope meter and snowpit analysis kit
  • Avalung or avalung pack
  • Multifunction watch (with altimeter)
  • Whistle/signaling mirror
  • Ice axe/Whippet
  • Route description or guidebook

The Ten Essentials (for safety, survival and basic comfort)



1. Navigation
  • Map (with protective case)
  • Compass
  • GPS (optional)
2. Sun protection
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Sunglasses
3. Insulation
  • Jacket, vest, pants, gloves, hat (see Clothing)
4. Illumination
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Extra batteries (kept near body when cold)
5. First-aid supplies
  • First-aid kit (see our First-aid checklist)
6. Fire
  • Matches or lighter
  • Waterproof container
  • Fire starter (for emergency survival fire)
7. Repair kit and tools
  • Knife or multi-tool
  • Duct tape strips; repair items as needed
8. Nutrition
  • Extra day's supply of food
9. Hydration
  • Water bottles or hydration system (insulated)
  • Water filter or other treatment system
10. Emergency shelter
  • Tent, tarp, bivy or reflective blanket
Clothing options (base choices on possible weather extremes)
  • Wicking base layers (synthetic or wool)
  • Fleece jacket or vest (insulating mid layer)
  • Fleece or wool underwear
  • Insulating jacket (down or poly-fill)
  • Waterproof/breathable jacket (or soft shell)
  • Waterproof/breathable pants or bibs (or soft shell)
  • Insulating hat, cap, balaclava or headband
  • Bandana or Buff (neck or face gaiter)
  • Sun-shielding cap or hat for bright days
  • Gloves, mittens and/or overmittens
  • Light gloves (for high-energy activity)
  • Socks (synthetic or wool)
  • Liner socks (optional)
     
Personal items
  • Toilet paper
  • Sanitation trowel and/or WAGbags
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Quick-dry towel
     
Other options
  • Lunch
  • Energy food (bars, gels, chews, trail mix)
  • Energy beverages or drink mixes
  • Vacuum bottle (for hot drinks)
  • Insulated sitting pad
  • Handwarmer/footwarmer packets
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Permits/passes
  • Two-way radios
  • Personal locator beacon
  • Cell or satellite phone
  • Credit card/cash/photo ID
  • Notebook and pen or pencil
  • Music player with headphones
  • Post-activity snacks, water and beverages
  • Towel and post-activity change of clothing
  • Trip itinerary left w/friend + under car seat
     
Note: This list is intentionally extensive; not every person will use every item on every outing. List is for day use.