Planning a snowboard trip? This packing list for snowboarding will take you through all the gear and equipment you need for your time on the slopes!
If there is one trip you do NOT want to be unprepared for, it’s a snowboard trip. There is nothing worst than getting up the mountain and realizing you’ve forgotten a piece of your snowboarding kit.
On top of a basic snowboard equipment list, it’s also important to be prepared with gear for varying terrains and changing weather conditions. That is why this comprehensive snowboarding packing list is going to be a lifesaver for your next trip to the slopes!
basic Snowboard gear list
Below are seven essential pieces of snowboard gear you’ll need before heading up the mountain.
Snowboard
This is the one item on this snowboard gear list that I hope you won’t forget! Obviously, you can hire a snowboard from a ski shop at your destination. However, snowboard rental can get expensive over time.
Using a high-quality snowboard from one of the top snowboard brands is a great investment to make, especially if you go snowboarding regularly.
Bindings
Snowboard bindings are another essential piece of gear that you must have for your snowboarding trip. After all, you can’t attach yourself to your snowboard without them!
Before you leave, make sure your bindings are properly fitted to your snowboard and your boots. If you don’t know how to do this, you can take them to a ski shop.
Snowboarding Boots
Snowboard boots don’t just differ in colour and style, but also in what riding style they are made for. Each pair of snowboarding boots come with its own flex rating, which determines how forgiving the boots will be.
Freestylers will want boots with a low flex rating, while the inverse is true for those planning on tearing their way down to the mid-layer while free riding. Figuring out your style is integral to getting the right snowboard boots.
Helmet
Another piece of snowboard equipment you should add to your list is a helmet. Snowboarding is an extreme sport, and it does come with the risk of getting hurt.
Wearing a helmet will seriously minimize the risk of serious injury to your head. On that note, make sure you have travel insurance that covers snow sports.
Goggles
You do not want to leave goggles off your snowboard packing list. Combine the sun’s rays on a mountain with the reflective surface of the snow and you’ve got one very bright combination.
Goggles will protect your eyes from the snow, allow for better visibility in the snow and will keep your face warm!
Snowboarding poles
Snowboarding poles are one of those items that are better to have and not need rather than need and not have. Very similar to ski poles, snowboarders will need this item if they plan on shredding through the backcountry.
If you plan to go off-piste/ touring, this is one piece of snowboard gear that you don’t want to be without.
Board leash
A board leash keeps your snowboard attached to your foot at all times. Most bindings will have a release trigger. Should you slam into the ground with enough force, the trigger will activate, and you’ll separate from your board.
Having a board leash means you’ll be able to find your snowboard a lot more easily, should you separate from it.
Additional Checklist for Snowboarding
Below are some of the additional items I’d recommend bringing up the mountain when you go snowboarding.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is possibly one of the most overlooked items on a snowboarding packing list. Not only is snow super reflective, the high altitude of a mountain means you are closer to the sun. This exponentially increases your chances of getting sunburnt!
Wearing sunscreen with a high SPF factor can save you from some potentially nasty sunburn.
Lip Balm
Another item often overlooked on a snowboarding packing list is lip balm. The cold, dry air up in the mountains makes chapped lips a common problem. Packing a stick of lip balm can be an absolute lifesaver.
I’d recommend buying a lip balm with SPF in it as this will also protect your lips from sunburn.
Sunglasses
It’s great to have a pair of sunglasses on hand for the moments when you are not wearing your snowboarding goggles. Whenever you stop to grab food or a drink on the mountain, you’ll be very thankful for a pair of sunglasses to block out those bright rays!
Toe/ Hand Warmers
One of the worst feelings in the world is feeling like your fingers or toes have frozen over while you are snowboarding. Sticking hand warmers inside your gloves and toe warmers inside your socks can genuinely be a lifesaver! They will certainly make your day on the mountain a lot more enjoyable.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit can be an absolute lifesaver in many situations. Bringing a small first aid kit with you while snowboarding can turn potentially life-threatening situations into manageable ones. Even if you never end up using it- it is better to be safe than sorry.
Knee Pads
While proper snowboarding clothing should have you covered most of the way, if you are a beginner, you may want to consider bringing additional safety gear.
Knee pads can help avoid nasty injuries and keep you safe. Just remember that the additional weight can affect your performance.
Shovel
While a shovel may seem like a bizarre item to put on a snowboarding checklist, it can be a lifesaving tool. If you ever get buried in the snow, a shovel could help you pull yourself out. You can get small shovels that simply attach to your bag.
Probe
While a snowboarding probe may not be an essential item, it is another tool that can help in emergencies. It is basically a metallic rod that lets you measure the depth of the snow around or in front of you.
In extreme cases, a snowboarding probe can help you locate anyone that has been buried by an avalanche.
Waterproof Backpack
A backpack is by far the easiest way to lug all your gear when you are on the mountain. I’d recommend choosing a backpack that is waterproof, padded and isn’t too bulky.
Camelback hydration packs are a great option for storing your belongings and staying hydrated as you snowboard!
Electronics checklist for Snowboarding
Below are the essential electronics that I’d highly recommend bringing on your next snowboarding trip.
Mobile Phone
While it may feel a little risky to bring your phone up the mountain, it is one of the most important items to pack for snowboarding. Not only will a phone allow you to stay in contact with your fellow snowboarders, but it also acts as a GPS device that will help locate you should you get lost.
Just make sure you have a secure pocket to keep it in and that GPS services are enabled.
Locator/ GPS Device
If you really don’t want to bring a phone up the mountain or want an extra level of safety, consider bringing along a GPS device and/ or locator.
GPS devices provide useful information about your current location and terrain. Locators will help authorities locate you in the event of an avalanche.
Go Pro
If you want to capture all the action on the slopes, you can’t beat a GoPro. This action cam is super portable, waterproof and shock-proof, making it the perfect camera for snowboarding.
The GoPro 11, offers insane 4k video quality with built-in stabilization. You can buy a variety of mounts to capture the action from different angles, like a helmet mount, a chest mount or a wrist mount!
Earphones
If you want to elevate your snowboard experience to a whole new level, bring a pair of earphones so you can listen to music as you ride. There is nothing more incredible than racing down a mountain with music in your ears.
I’d recommend wireless headphones so you don’t risk getting any cords tangled up.
Clothing Packing List for a Snowboarding Trip
These are all the clothing items you don’t want to forget for your snowboarding trip!
Snowboarding Outerwear
When packing for a snowboarding trip, make sure you bring all of the appropriate outwear. A good quality, waterproof snowboarding jacket and snow pants are essential for keeping you warm, dry and comfortable when you are on the mountain.
A ski suit is also a great option if you want something that looks a little more stylish!
Thermal Inners
Thermal inners are the bottom-most layer of clothing that you should be wearing. They may seem like thin pieces of clothing, but they are incredibly effective at containing your body heat.
A good set of inners and a quality neck warmer will keep you super warm when snowboarding!
Fleece
Alongside thermal layers, you should also layer up with fleece clothing for colder temperatures. Fleece is super lightweight and very comfortable. It manages to provide excellent coverage without weighing you down.
It’s also got great moisture-wicking capabilities, which helps with sweat!
Gloves
A good-quality pair of gloves is another incredibly important item on your snowboard packing list. There are many different types of gloves, including finger or fingerless options.
Pick a pair that will work best for you and most importantly, will keep your hands warm!
Snowboarding Socks
Not just any old pair of socks will cut it for snowboarding. Investing in socks made specifically for snowboarding will keep your feet warm and protect them from the harmful effects of the snow.
Face Mask
A ski mask is another one of those items that you should consider adding to your snowboard packing list regardless of whether you’ll need it or not.
In very cold or windy conditions, you’ll be extremely thankful to have something to protect your entire face from the elements.
Packing for snowboarding can be a lot of effort, but it’s worth taking the time to do properly. Being fully prepared means you’ll be able to focus on having the most enjoyable snowboarding trip possible!
More handy packing lists to read:
- Minimalist Packing List for Females
- Carry-On Packing List: 12 Things to Add
- Winter Packing Tips: A Guide
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