Backcountry Skiing Kit List: Essential Gear for Safe and Enjoyable Backcountry Adventures

Backcountry skiing is an exhilarating and adventurous way to explore the great outdoors, but it requires specialized gear to ensure your safety and comfort. This comprehensive Backcountry Skiing Kit List covers the essential items you’ll need for a successful and enjoyable backcountry skiing experience.

What are the Essential Items for Backcountry Skiing?

1. Backcountry Ski Equipment

Skis
Backcountry ski boots
Ski bindings
Ski poles
Climbing skins
Sunglasses or goggles
Ski helmet
Ski backpack

2. Avalanche Safety Gear

Avalanche transceiver (e.g., Ortovox Direct Voice, Mammut Barryvox S)
Probe (e.g., Black Diamond Carbon Quickdraw)
Shovel (e.g., BCA Dozer 2H Shovel)
Snow saw and snow study kit (optional)

3. Clothing and Accessories

Hardshell or ski jacket
Ski pants or bibs
Ski gloves and liners
Baselayers
Midlayer
Down jacket
Ski socks
Hat
Neck gaiter or balaclava
Insulated jacket
Soft shell or waterproof-breathable jacket and pants
Base layer top and bottom
Mid layer top and bottom
Warm hat
Sun-protective hat and sunglasses
Liner gloves and waterproof, insulated gloves or mitts
Liner socks and thermal socks
Underwear
Hut booties or slippers

4. Emergency Essentials

First aid kit
Knife or multi-tool
Whistle
Repair kit
Route guide and map
GPS / compass
Headlamp + batteries
Sunscreen and lip protection
Bivy, tarp or survival bag or blanket
Emergency shelter/blanket
Hand warmers
Food and energy bars
Water and water bottle
Vacuum bottle and hot drinks
Insulated pad for sitting

5. Additional Items

Navigation tools (e.g., compass, GPS)
Communication devices (e.g., two-way radio, satellite communication device)
Ski crampons
Boot crampons and ice axe
Inclinometer
Camera
Snacks
Water bottle(s)
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Disposable hand warmers
Whistle
Ski straps
Duct tape
Skin glue
Fabric tape
Small length of cord
Bit of wire
Hose clamp

How to Choose Avalanche Safety Equipment?

When selecting avalanche safety equipment, consider the following factors:

Experience Level: Beginners should opt for simpler, more user-friendly equipment, while experienced skiers can choose more advanced models with additional features.
Terrain Type: Different terrains require specific gear. For example, ski crampons are essential for firm touring conditions.
Local Conditions: Be aware of local avalanche risks and adjust your equipment accordingly. For example, in areas with high avalanche risk, a more advanced avalanche transceiver may be necessary.

What are the Recommended Backpacks for Backcountry Skiing?

When choosing a backpack for backcountry skiing, consider the following key features:

Capacity: Ensure the backpack has enough space to hold all your gear comfortably.
Weight: Lighter backpacks are ideal for backcountry skiing to minimize fatigue.
Attachment Points: Look for backpacks with multiple attachment points for securing gear, such as ski straps and ice axes.

References

Switchback Travel – Backcountry Skiing Checklist
https://www.switchbacktravel.com/info/backcountry-skiing-checklist
MEC – Backcountry Ski Touring Checklist
https://www.mec.ca/en/explore/ski-touring-checklist
Powder7 – Backcountry Skiing Gear List with Amy David
https://www.powder7.com/ski-blog/backcountry-skiing-gear-list-with-amy-david