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Ski Touring Gear Checklist

There's more to ski touring than that skis. We've got you covered with all the necessary essentials, from poles to expedition-weight base layers.

by: The Backpacker Editors

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Clothing
Outerwear

• waterproof/breathable jacket
• waterproof/breathable pants
• insulated parka
• fleece jacket or wool sweater
• waterproof gaiters
• synthetic hiking pants
• fleece pants

Base Layer

• expedition-weight long john bottoms
• expedition-weight long john top
• midweight long john top
• midweight long john bottoms
• long sleeve T-shirt
• synthetic briefs
• synthetic sports bra

Accessories

• wool or fleece hat
• balaclava
• midweight wool or fleece gloves
• heavyweight wool or fleece mittens
• synthetic liner gloves
• waterproof overmitts

Footwear

• insulated camp booties
• waterproof hiking boots
• wool or synthetic socks (3)
• liner socks (2)

Extras

• sun hat
• bandanna

Gear
Ski Touring Specific Gear

• internal frame pack
• touring skis (x-country, telemark, or AT)
• telemark boots
• ski poles
• climbing skins
• lightweight avalanche shovel
• ski repair kit
• avalanche transceiver
• avalanche probe
• ski goggles
• glacier glasses
• optional: sled for hauling gear

Other Gear

• convertible or four-season tent
• down sleeping bag (-30° to 0°F)
• inflatable sleeping pad
• closed-cell foam sleeping pad
• trekking poles
• white gas stove and fuel bottles
• lighter and waterproof matches
• cookset w/ heat exchanger
• eating utensils, bowl, and insulated mug
• headlamp w/extra batteries and bulb
• 32 oz. water bottles (2)
• water bottle parkas (2)
• pocket knife or multitool
• compass or GPS (and map)
• sunglasses
• first-aid kit with personal medications
• personal locator beacon (optional)
• chemical heat packs
• stuff sacks
• assorted zipper-lock bags
• sunscreen (SPF 15+)
• lip balm (SPF 15+)
• toilet paper and trowel
• pee bottle

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