What to Pack vs Rent for the 2025/26 Season at Powder Mountain

Pack smart for Powder Mountain

The night before a ski trip always feels a little magical. You’re setting out layers, checking your gloves, maybe tucking hand warmers into your bag. The anticipation of that first chairlift ride or your kids’ first turns builds with every item you pack. Whether you’re flying in from the coast, road-tripping from the Midwest, or staying for a full family ski week, being prepared means you’ll spend less time worrying and more time chasing fresh tracks.

Packing smart doesn’t mean hauling everything. Powder Mountain’s rental shop is ready with top-quality gear so you can travel lighter and still ride the best. Think of your bag as a balance: bring the clothing and personal essentials that keep you comfortable, and let Powder Mountain handle the rest.

Plan Your Trip

What to Pack: Must-Have Gear and Clothing

Ski & Snowboard Essentials: 

These are the core items that will define your day on the mountain. Pack smart to stay warm, safe, and ready for anything Powder throws your way.

• Base layers (thermal tops & bottoms)
• Mid layer
• Ski socks (wool or synthetic)
• Insulated ski jacket or waterproof/water-resistant shell
• Waterproof ski pants
• Gloves or mittens
• Neck gaiter or balaclava
• Ski goggles (with low-light and sunny-day lenses)
• Warm hat or beanie
  

Day Trip Add-Ons:

These extras can make a big difference, especially if you're not used to high altitudes, cold temps, or Utah’s dry mountain air. Stay comfortable from first chair to last lap with these often-overlooked essentials.

• Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 30+) 
• Hand & toe warmers
• Hydration bottle or pack
• Quick snacks for the chairlift
  

Off-Slope Clothing:

Skiing might be the main event, but what you wear off the mountain matters too. Whether you're grabbing a bite in the lodge, heading into town, or unwinding at your cabin, après-ski comfort is a close second to the slopes themselves.

• Cozy sweaters & jeans
• Comfortable boots for après-ski
• Swimsuit for the hot tub
• Casual wear for dining and exploring Eden
  

Optional Gear:

• Helmet (if you don’t plan to rent)
• Action camera or GoPro

What to Rent: Travel Light Without Missing a Beat

Renting makes sense if you’re:

• Flying and want to avoid baggage fees
• Trying skiing or snowboarding for the first time
• Looking to test the latest gear before buying
• Wanting convenience and expert fitting on-site
  

Powder Mountain Rentals Include:

• Skis, boots, and poles
• Snowboards and boots
• Helmets
  

Premium Ski & Snowboard Brands You Can Rent at Powder:

• Skis: Black Crows, DPS, WNDR Alpine, Atomic, Blizzard, Stöckli, Nordica, ZAG, Salomon
• Ski Bindings: Salomon, Atomic, Look
• Snowboards: Arbor, Salomon, Cardiff, CAPiTA, Spring Break, Lib Tech, GNU, Rossignol, Never Summer
• Snowboard Bindings: Salomon, Flux
  

Rentals from the Timberline Ski Shop are tuned regularly, fitted by experts, and feature the newest models each season.

Reserve Rentals in Advance

Bonus Packing Tips for Families & Groups

Smart packing can mean the difference between smooth sailing and scrambling in the lodge parking lot. Whether you're coordinating multiple kids, trying to maximize trunk space, or keeping gear organized across several people, these tips will help you stay efficient.

Label Everything

Kids’ gear often looks identical, especially when it comes to gloves, goggles, and helmets. Use permanent markers or iron-on labels to tag names or initials on clothing, gear bags, and accessories to avoid mix-ups.

Use Packing Cubes or Zip Bags

Divide layers and accessories into separate cubes or clear zip bags for each person. This helps keep track of gloves, socks, and thermals while making morning prep faster and less chaotic.

Pack a Daypack for the Mountain

Each skier or rider should have a small backpack with:

• Water bottle or hydration pack
• Snacks (trail mix, granola bars)
• Hand warmers and lip balm
• Extra neck gaiter or glove liners
• Phone charger or battery pack

A designated “on-mountain” bag keeps essential items accessible.

Plan for the Parking Lot

Keep a duffel or crate in the car with dry socks, extra layers, and snacks for après. A thermos of hot cocoa or tea doesn’t hurt either.

Coordinate as a Group

Assign categories: one person brings the sunscreen and hand warmers, another packs the snack bin. Share a group checklist beforehand so nothing gets forgotten.

Gear Up at Powder: Rental Info & Reservations

Powder Mountain’s rental shop makes it easy to travel light and still ski with top-tier equipment. Book online before your trip to lock in availability, especially during peak weekends and holidays.

Ski Trip Packing vs Renting FAQs

What ski gear should I rent vs bring myself?
Bring personal clothing layers and accessories; rent skis, boards, boots, and helmets for convenience.

Does Powder Mountain offer ski and snowboard rentals?
Yes! Powder offers high-quality ski and snowboard rentals with top brands and expert fitting.

Are helmets, boots, and poles included in rentals?
Yes, rental packages from Timberline Ski Shop and Sundown Center include skis or a snowboard, boots, poles, and a helmet.

How should I pack for a one-day ski trip?
Focus on essentials: base layers, jacket, pants, gloves, goggles, sunscreen, snacks, and water.