Ski season is quickly approaching and for many here in Western Colorado, it’s already underway. Having the essentials isn't just about ensuring a fun day in the backcountry, it's an integral part of prudent risk management.
It’s easy to forget a critical item like a beacon, skins, or sunglasses. It’s even easier to make these mistakes during the early season when you’re pulling gear out of storage and blowing off the dust. Beyond getting your skis tuned and waxed, it’s equally important to tune up your mindset so you pack everything necessary for a safe, smooth tour.
Using checklists is a proven way to eliminate the mental errors we all make from time to time. Pilots and surgeons use them religiously because they are a proven standard of care, so why shouldn't mountain athletes do the same?
We created this checklist to help build consistency before heading out the door. It isn't a definitive list for every scenario, and personal preferences will vary, but its primary purpose is to foster good habits. Keep in mind that every tour has different demands: skiing short laps of mid-winter deep powder in a storm requires very different gear than spring skiing steep, firm snow high in the peaks. Any list is only as good as what is on it, so if we (or you) have omitted something that is crucial to you, the list can actually cause you to forget something you may not have without it.
This list reflects a typical day of winter touring where slide-for-life terrain (requiring harnesses, ropes, or climbing gear) is not on the itinerary.
1. Avalanche Safety & Emergency Gear
Beacon: Check battery level (must be above 70% before heading out).
Probe: Standard length (240cm+), easy to deploy.
Shovel: Metal blade; avoid plastic models.
Satellite Communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach): Fully charged and active subscription verified.
Ski Pack: Airbag/SBX charged and connected if using an avalanche pack.
Emergency Response Plan: Printed copy or digital download saved on your phone.
Communication: Fully charged phone with offline maps and current public avalanche bulletin downloaded.
Trip Plan: Detailed itinerary shared with a trusted contact outside your group.
2. Personal Gear & Apparel
Skis/Splitboard: Waxed and matched to current snow conditions (brakes recommended).
Boots & Bindings Check: Ensure bindings function properly and fit your boot sole length.
Climbing Skins: Trimmed and fitted for chosen skis/board.
Poles: Adjustable length with mid-shaft grips for ascending.
Layering System:
Base layers (moisture wicking)
Mid-layers (fleece or active insulation)
Insulating jacket (down or heavy synthetic)
Shell jacket and pants (weatherproof)
Light windbreaker (optional)
Head & Hands:
Touring gloves (breathable up-track pair)
Mittens or heavy warm gloves (down-track/emergency pair)
Buff or neck gaiter
Warm beanie & sun hat
Eyewear:
Sunglasses (SPF/UV rated)
Ski goggles (with low-light/changeable spare lenses)
Sun Protection: Sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
Hydration & Food:
1 - 2 liters of water or electrolyte drink
High calorie trail snacks and lunch
Post-tour food and drinks waiting at the car
3. Maintenance & Field Tools
Ski Straps (2 - 3 Voilé Straps): Indispensable for field repairs, securing gear, or improvised sleds.
Ski/Skin Scraper & Skin Wax: For clearing ice buildup on bases or skins.
Small Headlamp: Batteries checked and functional for low-light starts or delays.
4. Group Gear
Emergency Shelter: Tarp or bivy sack.
First Aid Kit: Stocked for trauma and basic wound care.
Rescue Sled Kit: Rescue tarp/sled (or 6-meter cord and locking carabiner for improvised sleds).
Repair Kit: Multitool, driver bits matching your bindings, pole splint, spare basket, and wire/zip ties.
Vehicle Backup: Extra beacon, shovel, probe, and warm clothing left in the car.
5. Optional Extras
Thermos with a hot drink
Compact foam insulating pad
Group two-way radios
Portable phone battery charger
Specialty trail treats to share with the group
What do you think of this list?
Are there items you never leave behind, or things here you skip on light days? Let us know what you think, and remember, the best list is the one you actually use!