What I Packed for a One Week Ski Vacation in the French Alps
08.01.2025 - 10:35
/ matadornetwork.com
To pack for a ski vacation, you’ll be faced with a mountain of gear that you’ll need to thin out by at least half. Annoyingly, snow apparel is bulky, and there’s no way around that other than investing in decent packing cubes to reduce volume. So my first tip, if you don’t have packing aids already, is to get onto Amazon and treat yourself to a set of mixed-sized compression bags. Read reviews first because price dictates the quality of zips, and there’s nothing more frustrating than a split zipper when you’re flying out the next day.
Another first-world problem with a European ski vacation is that they take après-ski to another level. My recent experience with Club Med, Tignes had a roster of evening events that encouraged themed outfits. If you’re cringing while reading this, I was, too. Packing my outdoor gear is one thing, but planning a chic color-coded wardrobe was quite another. Luckily, Club Med is pretty chill about theme suggestions (much like an all-inclusive cruise line), so I could mix and match many of my items to work for multiple nights. A smart high-waisted pair of jeans and tucked-in turtle neck with different accessories became a go-to, and the dresses and pair of healed boots I brought came home unworn because they were just too much, and I want to be comfortable (and warm) after a day on the slopes.
I traveled to France with a checked luggage limit of 50 lbs. Unless you purchase more, you’ll likely have the same. I was right on the nose with my limit, and other than the elegant evening wear I never used, I don’t think I could have packed smarter.
Here’s my travel-tested list of what to pack for a week-long ski vacation in France.
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Before we get into my packing list, Club Med, Tignes offers a gear hire service. It can be a lot of work to navigate bulky skis, boots, and helmets, not to mention the added weight and stress at the airport, so opting to rent your kit is a huge benefit of staying at one of their properties. The resort offers a wide range of high-quality equipment from top brands. If you need clarification on which equipment is right for you, the staff at Club Med can provide expert advice. They’ll help you choose the perfect gear based on your skill level and preferences. The process is streamlined and efficient, so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying your holiday.
Photo: Katie Scott Aiton
On arrival, you’ll need to visit the ski pro shop, where you’ll be fitted for boots (if you didn’t bring your own), skis or board, and your