Absolutely, You Can Travel Carry-On Only for a Ski Trip

Even if you plan to rent skis or a snowboard, packing for a ski trip involves more items than your average tropical getaway. You'll need goggles, gloves, boots, and warm socks—not to mention your off-slope attire.

You may be surprised to learn that it’s entirely feasible to pack for a long weekend ski trip (or even a week) using just carry-on luggage. We won’t remind you to wear your heaviest jacket, sweater, and bulkiest boots on the plane instead of cramming them into your carry-on. However, ensure the gear you pack is also compressible so you can maximize space inside—packing cubes, like Paravel Compression Cubes, $55, can work wonders for this.

The benefit? You won’t have to stress about a tight flight connection delaying your bag and leaving you without warm layers in the cold. Plus, if you're traveling with friends, bringing a small carry-on makes it easier for everyone to fit in a rental car.

Choose a high-capacity carry-on

Not all carry-on luggage is created equal. For a compact hardshell roller that fits in the overhead bin while accommodating enough clothing for several days on and off the mountain, consider Paravel’s Aviator Carry-On Plus ($295). This recycled polycarbonate suitcase weighs just 8.5 pounds and boasts a capacity of 52.1 liters. Its interior compression board acts like a magic wand, helping you fit everything you need inside. Keep in mind that larger carry-ons like this (measuring 14.7 x 22.7 x 9.6 inches) are acceptable on domestic U.S. airlines, but international carriers may have stricter carry-on size restrictions.

If you prefer a soft case that can easily fit among other bags in your rental car, minimalists rave about the packing potential of the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack ($299). It features a dedicated laptop compartment, weighs under five pounds, and has a capacity of 35 liters for your belongings.

For those needing a larger soft case that remains carry-on compliant, Dinogo editor Lyndsey Matthews used her Small North Face Base Camp Duffle ($129) for a five-night ski trip to Lake Tahoe. With a 50-liter capacity in a compact size of 13 x 21 x 13 inches, this rugged bag can withstand a bit of dragging and includes compression straps to further reduce its size once packed. While the backpack-style straps may not be the most comfortable for long hauls, they are perfect for navigating airports and boarding planes.

Merino Wool is Your Best Ally

Merino wool base layers are essential for staying warm on the slopes and barely take up any space in your luggage. The greatest advantage of merino (besides its incredible warmth) is that it doesn’t harbor odor-causing bacteria like synthetic fabrics do. Simply hang your woolen garments to air out after a day of skiing, and you’ll be surprised at how fresh they smell the next day. For four days on the mountain, two pairs of merino base layers will suffice without any unpleasant odors.

For warmth and style, we adore Kari Traa’s 100 percent merino base layers for women (starting at $75), which are attractive enough to wear without an outer layer for après-ski. New Zealand-based brand Icebreaker also offers beautiful 100 percent merino base layers for both men and women, such as the Women’s Merino 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Half Zip Thermal Top ($105) and the Men’s Merino 260 Zone Half Zip and Leggings ($130 and $140), which can be considered investment pieces.

Choose a Two-Part Layering System for Your Top

Rather than a bulky, all-in-one ski jacket, opt for a lightweight down or synthetic puffer jacket layered beneath a thin shell jacket. This combination effectively shields you from wind and cold (especially when paired with those merino base layers). While down provides excellent warmth, it loses its insulating properties when wet, so a synthetic puffer might be the better choice.

Arc’teryx’s Cerium LT Hoody ($379, available in men’s and women’s sizes) combines the best of both worlds with its warm 850-fill power down and strategically placed synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas. It can be worn on the plane for extra warmth or packed into its pouch to serve as a travel pillow. For a synthetic, water-resistant midlayer with great heat retention, check out Patagonia’s Nano Puff Hoody ($249, for women and men) or Arc’teryx’s Atom LT Hoody ($259, for men and women).

When selecting a shell, look for a windproof and waterproof option, ideally with reinforced zippers to block out the elements. Stio’s Credential Jacket for women ($359, down from $599) is available in vibrant blue and yellow shades that will help you stand out on the slopes (after all, there’s nothing less inspiring than blending into the scenery in a black jacket and pants on a sunny day).

For men, Mountain Hardwear’s Firefall/2 Jacket ($250) comes in various colors and is both waterproof and snow-ready, featuring an internal powder skirt and Velcro cuffs to keep snow at bay. Additionally, Aether’s new Ski 2022 collection includes the Mission Snow Shell ($895), which is waterproof and wind-resistant, boasting a three-layer Gore-Tex shell and a high collar insulated with PrimaLoft for extra comfort.

Lightweight Ski Pants Are Available

While there are many insulated ski pants that offer warmth, they can be too bulky for most conditions on the mountain. With just a base layer and a thin shell, your legs can stay warm even in moderately cold weather. Look for softshell and lightweight pants that pack down small and provide ample room for base layers to handle the interior warmth.

We’re fans of the vibrant purple hue of The North Face’s Freethinker Futurelight Pant for women ($450), which features removable suspenders for a customizable fit. For men, Arc’teryx’s Beta LT Pant Hadron ($350) is both waterproof and windproof thanks to Gore-Tex and offers excellent abrasion resistance without the bulk of heavier pants.

One Pair of Shoes Is Enough

If you're renting ski or snowboard boots at the mountain, you might only need to bring one pair of shoes (opt for boots) for a short trip. Choose boots that are safe and waterproof for snowy sidewalks while also stylish enough for après-ski. The waterproof Lucie Sneaker Boot by Forsake ($150) keeps your feet dry and pairs well with tights and a sweater dress. For men, the waterproof suede Explorer Boot by Sorel ($105, was $140) offers sneaker-like comfort with durable rubber soles for excellent traction on snow. If you need something cozy to transition from your hotel room to the lobby restaurant, check out the unisex Glerup Slipper Boots ($155), featuring grippy rubber bottoms and 100 percent natural wool felt uppers.

Additional Tips for Packing Light on a Ski Trip

• Stuff ski goggles, sunglasses, gloves, and socks inside your boots or the exterior pocket of your jacket for easy access on the plane.
• Purchase sunscreen, hand warmers, and other small essentials at your destination to save space.
• If you're bringing your own helmet, attach it to your carry-on or backpack instead of trying to fit it inside—flight crew will understand your need to keep your head protected.
• Keep your après-ski outfits simple. Ski towns are typically casual, and even in places like Aspen or St. Moritz, you'll find bars and restaurants where a cozy sweater and leggings or jeans will suffice. One pair of pants and a couple of sweaters should be more than enough.