What’s In My Pack for a Half-Day of Backcountry Skiing + Free Digital Download

Written By Katie Cooney

There’s a lot of gear involved in backcountry skiing. Like, a lot.

If you're like me, you probably sit in your car and rattle off a list of items that you should have packed to make sure you laid your hands on them. "Beacon shovel probe goggles hat helmet headlamp skins jacket mittens water snacks" ...and so on! This illustration was a personal project to help give me a visual checklist to think through before I leave the driveway.

DISCLAIMER: There are tried and true packing essentials for backcountry skiing, and I’d recommend taking an AIARE Avalanche 1 Education Course to learn about traveling in the backcountry, what and how to pack, and avalanche hazard mitigation. This checklist is not exhaustive – simply meant to serve as a visual reminder. If you’re just beginning to explore the world of backcountry skiing or snowboarding, AIARE also offers great educational resources on their website to help you get started.

So… what exactly goes into my pack for a half-day of backcountry skiing? Personally, I’m usually wearing my base layers, snow pants, beacon, shell jacket, and touring gloves on my way out the door. Boots, skis, and poles don’t go in my backpack, so they’re not included here. ;) I also often bring my camera for work and a few extras that go along with that.

HERE’S MY EVERY-DAY LIST:

Avalanche Safety Essentials:

  • Avalanche Transceiver / Beacon

  • Avalanche Shovel

  • Probe

Self-Care & Personal Items:

  • Sunscreen

  • Food / Snacks

  • Water

  • Extra Layer (Usually my down jacket or an insulator!)

  • Neck Tube / Buff, Headband and/or Hat

  • Mittens & Lightweight Touring Gloves

Navigation & Communication:

  • Garmin InReach Satellite Communication Device for Emergencies

  • Personal Cell Phone

  • Paper Map or Navigation Phone App, i.e. onX Backcountry

  • Two-Way Radio (Not Pictured)

Repairs & Other:

  • First Aid Kit (with an epi-pen, since I have allergies)

    • Pain Medication, Blister Supplies, Benadryl, Epi

    • Lighter

  • Binding Tool or Multitool

  • Tele Straps

  • Space Blanket or Emergency Shelter (Not Pictured)

I’ve created three versions of this illustration for you:
1. Simple Verison – save this one on your phone for a visual checklist!
2. Checklist Version – save it on your phone or print it!
3. Checklist + Notes Version – best used in a printed format!

Frame the version that works best for you and put it by the door, laminate it and put it on the fridge, or get creative! Use a whiteboard marker to check off items, add extra items that you regularly pack, or leave notes about your plans for your housemates, partner, or loved ones.

If you print this, visit your local print shop for best results and have it printed at 8x10”! Tag me on Instagram @ktcooney if you use it!

Get out there, have fun, and get home safe!

If you’d like to leave me a tip and help support my art so that I can continue to create resources like this:

Otherwise, this resource is free – from me to you! Send it to your backcountry buddies, too!
Enter your email to download the checklists for free:

Katie Cooney