The wardrobe for the winter holiday
Short answer: On a winter holiday, the base layer decides whether the day goes well. A thin layer that moves sweat away keeps you warmer than a thick one that gets wet, because it is moisture that makes you cold.
Base layer first
If you sweat on the way up and then stand still on the lift, a wet cotton layer quickly turns cold. A thin base layer that moves moisture away from the skin keeps you dry and therefore warmer. It is the most important item in the suitcase. See bamboo vest for men.
The legs
A thin layer under ski trousers adds warmth without bulk and without making the trousers tight. That matters especially on the lift and in the morning cold, when the legs stay still for a long time. Choose a layer that fits closely and does not ride up. See bamboo long johns.
The socks
Wear one sock in the ski boot, not two. More layers add bulk, press and lead to cold toes, because the foot has less room. Choose a thin, smooth sock that reaches above the boot cuff so it does not rub. See bamboo socks for men.
The mid layer
Over the base layer goes a mid layer that holds the air. A thin fleece or wool jumper is usually enough under the ski jacket. If it is very cold, add another thin layer rather than a thick one. Then you can take one off if the sun comes out on the slope.
The evening
A set of soft clothes for after skiing is what everyone forgets to pack. When you come in after a long day, it is good to change into something dry and comfortable. It takes little room in the suitcase and gets worn every evening. See bamboo loungewear for men.
Drying in the room
Thin clothing dries overnight, so two sets of base layers are enough for a whole week. Rinse them in the sink in the evening, press them gently in a towel and hang them up. Read also how to wash clothes while travelling.
For women
The principles are the same for women: a thin base layer that moves moisture away, a mid layer and a ski jacket. Choose a vest that fits closely without squeezing, so it does not form folds under the other layers. See the matching pieces in bamboo vest for women.
Neck, hands and head
Heat escapes quickly at the neck, hands and head. A neck gaiter, thin gloves under mittens and a hat under the helmet make a big difference on the lift. Thin layers are better than thick ones here too, because they can be combined to suit the weather.
Pack by layers
Pack by layers rather than by days. Two base layers, one or two mid layers, ski trousers, a jacket and a set of loungewear cover a whole week if you can rinse and dry along the way. More on the topic in base layers for the ski holiday.
Washing after the holiday
When you get home, wash the base layers thoroughly. Wash at 40 degrees with a mild detergent, and skip fabric softener, which makes the fabric worse at moving moisture. Let the clothes air dry. More tips in the washing guide.
Frequently asked questions
How many sets of base layers should I bring?
Two, if you can rinse and dry them in the evening. Thin clothing dries overnight, so you always have a dry set ready for the next morning.
Should I wear two pairs of socks in the ski boot?
No. One pair is enough. More layers add bulk, press and lead to cold toes, because the foot has less room in the boot.
What do people most often forget to pack?
A set of soft clothes for the evening. After a long day on the slopes it is good to change into something dry, and it takes almost no room in the suitcase.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
