Winter brings with it not just cold and chilly nights, but snow covered forests and mountains. Planning vacations during the winter break with family and friends can be thrilling and fun, but moving out of the cosy safety of your house can be a daring task that is sure to give you a lot of chills. Packing for an excursion or planning to try out a few winter sports can instantly turn your cold, lazy and dull winter days into some adventurous fun.

This winter I went on my first big skiing trip. I've been a huge fan of skiing for a long time, but I am still an amateur and wouldn't call myself an expert quite yet. Packing my ski gear took me a while, but I was helped along by advice from y good friend Matt, who is a ski expert and advised me to carry enough layers while I step out of my resort for a fun-filled skiing experience.

It is essential for all newbies to acknowledge the fact that packing warm clothes for the Alps or any other destination where the weather is harsh with the possibility of snowfall can be a task. Making a checklist is essential for such trips along with being well aware of the know-hows and do’s and don’ts. Check out the below points to organize your packing this winter for your new found love of skiing. This list is of all items that are tried-and-tested.

Layering makes winters more comfortable, keeping you warm and dry along with giving you the option of adding or removing layers according to the climate. Always remember loose clothing can be dangerous while you are out skiing. Below is the list of my personal favorites:

Leggings

Owning a pair of thermal leggings will provide you with better insulation. Wearing them underneath your salopettes can help you stay warm. Making sure this is light and breathable is what you need to be careful of. Seamless leggings can work in your favor as well, as these easily mold into your muscles and provide appropriate warmth. Thermal leggings with wicking properties are an ideal purchase.

Pants

Looking stylish while you ski downhill should not be the priority. Instead, going for safe and warm snow pants makes sense. Adorning high waist pants might not be a stylish thing to do, but opting for vivid colored pants can help you achieve a subtle and trendy look.

Socks

All those who love adventure and often go for long winter vacations are well aware of the fact that socks are essential for getting it right in the winter. A must-have, socks which are well padded will assure that you face no damaged shins. Packing a handful of them is not what you need to do. Grab as many as possible, especially when you choose to ski. Carrying wool and acrylic socks can keep your feet free of abrasions and false smells.

Top, Thermal Jacket, Base Layer and Good Innerwear

Sweating during winters is not what you would be looking forward to. Owning a base layer- a fluffy and soft one, can be a great thing. A thermal top however, should be worn first. There is no dearth of these in the market. Underneath your basic thermal top, it is essential to adorn a comfortable and less restrictive innerwear.

The order, hence should be- innerwear followed by a thermal top, a base layer, and finally a ski Jacket. The base layer that you purchase should not trap heat. Make sure the one you have is made of wool and has a perfect length with precise fitting. A ski jacket on top of this acts like the cherry on the cake. Investing in good jackets should be the next target. Jackets that are waterproof and feature a snow skirt along with zipped pocket on the sleeves and thumb holes is a favorite of mine.

For Frozen Hands

Having cold feet and cold hands is quite common during the winter season, so snow mittens have been a worthwhile investment for me. I am someone who cannot move an inch if my hands are frozen cold. Squeezing your fingers into gloves is the ideal thing to do even while you are skiing or snowboarding, etc. Your actions will show what a pair of mittens or gloves can do to your performance on the snow fields. A must-buy for all skiers!

Avoid Brain Freeze with Wooly Hat and Goggles

Engaging in snow sports like skiing and snowboarding comes with its own pros and cons. Even though it is super thrilling to slope down the hill, it is equally dangerous. I have heard a lot about head injuries in the past. Skiers should own a sturdy helmet to safeguard themselves against emergencies. A layer of a wooly hat on the inside can add warmth to your head.

Goggles for style

At the end, if you are still left with some cash, then spending money to buy a good pair of goggles can be a great idea. This winter layer it right and make the most of your winter gear! Have fun exploring the mountain life this winter!