The snow is sparkling outside the window and the countdown to your winter week in Sälen has begun. But to fully enjoy it, you need to pack right. With the right equipment and clothing, you can avoid freezing on the slopes and instead focus on great skiing, good food and relaxation. In this guide, you'll find a complete packing list for your perfect winter stay in Sälen.
Prepare for magical winter days in Sälen
Packing for a winter week in Sälen is about more than just bringing warm clothes. It's about preparing for all the experiences that await - from long days on the slopes to cosy evenings in front of the fire. Packing right will make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
The Sälen offers temperatures that often range between -5°C and -15°C during the winter months, but it can get both warmer and much colder. The weather can also change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for everything from bright sunshine to snowfall and biting wind.
Our complete packing list will help you get everything you need - whether you're planning intense days on the slopes, cross-country skiing on the trails, or just enjoying winter cosiness in the cabin. Let's start with the most important thing - the ski equipment!
Ski equipment - the basis for a successful ski week
The right ski equipment is essential for a successful ski week in Sälen. Whether you bring your own equipment or choose to hire on site, this is the basic kit you need to know:
Alpine ski equipment
- Slalom skis or snowboard
- Ski boots or snowboard boots
- Ski poles (for alpine skiing)
- Ski helmet (mandatory for children, highly recommended for adults)
- Ski goggles that protect against snow, wind and sun
- Back protectors (especially important for children and when riding in parks)
Cross-country skiing equipment
- Cross-country skiing
- Cross-country ski boots
- Longitudinal rods
- Thinner cap that fits under a helmet
- Sports glasses or sunglasses with UV protection
Discover everything Sälen has to offer
From sparkling ski slopes and cross-country trails to hiking trails, cycling paths and local restaurants, Sälen offers experiences for all seasons. When you stay at Sälengodset, you have it all at your fingertips.
Safety equipment
Safety always comes first on the slopes. In addition to helmets and back protectors, you may want to bring the following:
- Knee pads (especially for snowboarders and beginners)
- Wrist protectors (for snowboarders)
- Small first aid kit to keep in your pocket
- Whistle (in case you need to attract attention)
Remember to always check your equipment before travelling. Bindings and safety features in particular should be checked regularly to avoid accidents on the slopes.
Clothing - layer upon layer for optimal comfort
In the mountains, the layer-on-layer principle is key to staying warm. By dressing in several thinner layers instead of one thick one, you can easily adapt your clothing to the weather and activity level.
Base layer - closest to the body
The base layer should wick moisture away from your body and keep you dry. Choose materials that breathe and feel good against your skin.
- Wool or synthetic underwear (2-3 sets)
- Underwear adapted for activity
- Ski socks in wool or wool blend (at least 3-4 pairs)
- Thin inner socks if needed
Intermediate storage - insulation
The intermediate layer should keep you warm and continue to transport moisture outwards. Here you can adjust according to how cold it is.
- Fleece jumper or thinner down jacket
- Thicker woollen sweater
- Fleece or softshell trousers
- Extra warming layer for particularly cold days
Outer layer - protection from the weather
The outer layer should protect against wind, snow and moisture. Choose garments that are waterproof but breathable.
- Shell jacket or warm ski jacket
- Ski trousers with high waist or braces
- Waterproof gloves or mittens (bring an extra pair)
- Warm hat that covers the ears
- Buff or scarf
- Waterproof boots for walking off the slopes
Always bring extra mittens and socks! They get wet easily during the day and nothing spoils the joy of skiing like cold, wet hands and feet.
After skiing
After a day on the slopes, it's nice to change into dry, comfortable clothes.
- Comfortable indoor shoes or slippers
- Soft, cosy clothes for relaxation
- Warm socks in wool
- Possibly fancier clothes for restaurant visits
Enjoy the warmth of one of our cosy accommodations
After an active day on the slopes, it's great to come home to a warm and comfortable chalet. At Sälengodset, we offer accommodation with the perfect location and all amenities.
Accessories for the slopes
The right accessories will make your ski day more comfortable and fun. Here are the accessories to complete your equipment:
For skiing
- Sunglasses with UV protection (for sunny days)
- Small backpack for water, snacks and extra layers
- Thermos for hot drinks
- Water bottle (insulated to avoid freezing)
- Hand warmers (chemical or rechargeable)
- Seating for lunch breaks on the slopes
- Headband or thinner hat for hot days
Sun protection - important even in winter
The sun reflects off the snow and UV radiation is strong in the mountains, even on cloudy days.
- High factor sunscreen (at least SPF 30)
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Sunglasses or goggles with UV protection
Don't forget that sun protection is especially important in the mountains! Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun's rays, exposing you to UV radiation from both the sky and the ground.
Practical accessories
Small details that make a big difference to comfort:
- Lift pass strap or holder
- Ski straps to keep skis together during transport
- Valla or glide wax for the skis
- Small tool kit for adjusting bindings
- Waterproof pouch for mobile phone and valuables
Hygiene and personal care in the mountains
Mountain air is often dry, and the combination of cold, wind and sun can take its toll on skin and lips. Here's what you need to take care of yourself:
Skin care for winter conditions
- Moisturising face cream for day and night
- Hand cream for dry, chapped hands
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Moisturiser for the body
- Sunscreen cream adapted for winter use
Medicine and first aid
A small travelling pharmacy can be worth its weight in gold if you have an accident or fall ill.
- Plasters in different sizes
- Blister plasters
- Painkillers
- Nasal spray
- Prescription medicines you need
- Fluid replacement
- Antiseptic wipes
Bathroom necessities
Basic hygiene items that you need to bring:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Shower soap
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush or comb
- Hairdryer if available (check first what is available in the accommodation)
Treat yourself to some extra luxury after skiing
After an active day on the slopes, why not treat yourself to some relaxation? At Spa & Relax, you can enjoy the sauna and spa bath, which will help you recover before your next day of skiing.
Technology and entertainment for the evenings
After a day on the slopes, it's nice to relax in the chalet. Here is the technology and entertainment that makes the evenings extra cosy:
Packing techniques
- Mobile phones and chargers
- Camera to capture memorable moments
- Powerbank for charging on the go
- Headphones
- Possible tablet or laptop
- Adapter if travelling from abroad
Entertainment for cosy evenings
When darkness falls over the mountains, it's the perfect time to curl up on the sofa with something cosy:
- Books or e-books
- Parlour game or card game
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Downloaded films or series
- Knitting or other needlework
- Newspapers or crossword puzzles
Please note that internet access may be limited in some mountain huts. Download films, music and books in advance to avoid disappointment!
Food and snacks for energy on the slopes
Skiing requires energy, and with the right snacks in your pocket or backpack, you can keep your energy levels up throughout the day without having to take expensive lunch breaks in the slope restaurants.
Snacks for your rucksack
- Energy bars or protein bars
- Nut mix or trail mix
- Dried fruit
- Chocolate (also works in the cold)
- Banana chips or other dried snacks
- Sandwiches wrapped in foil
For the thermos
A hot drink works wonders when the cold bites your cheeks:
- Hot chocolate
- Tea with honey
- Broth
- coffee
- Hot fruit drink
Basic items to have in your holiday home
If you are living in self-catering accommodation, these basic items may be useful to bring or buy locally:
- Coffee, tea, sugar
- Salt, pepper and basic spices
- Oil and vinegar
- Pasta, rice or potatoes
- Canned and dry goods
- Breakfast products
Plan some simple meals in advance and take the ingredients with you. After a day on the slopes, you usually want to cook something quick and easy!
Extra for families with children - how to pack for the little ones
Going on a winter holiday with children requires some extra planning and packing. Here's what families with children need to consider in addition to basic packing:
Equipment for children
- Ski equipment adapted to the child's age and level
- Helmet (mandatory for children)
- Back protectors
- Ski goggles in child size
- Sledge or snowracer
- Baby carrier for the little ones
Clothing for children
Children get cold and wet more easily, so pack generously:
- Extra sets of underwear
- Several pairs of mittens and socks
- Buff that is easy to put on
- Warm hat that covers the ears
- Overall for the little ones
- Extra intermediate storage
- Slippers for indoor use
Things to consider for the little ones
With babies and toddlers in the mountains, you also need:
- Carrying sling or harness adapted for winter use
- Carrycot for pram or pushchair
- Extra blankets
- Sunscreen adapted for children's sensitive skin
- Stroller with large wheels if the child needs to sleep outside
- Baby food and porridge
Entertainment for children
After skiing, children also need activities:
- Favourite books or storybooks
- Games and puzzles
- Drawing pads and pencils
- Cuddly toys and sleeping companions
- Tablet with downloaded films or games
Family friendly accommodation in Sälen
At Fjällgodset we offer spacious accommodation perfect for families with children. With plenty of space to play and relax, your winter week in Sälen will be memorable for the whole family.
Hire equipment or bring your own?
Renting equipment in Sälen can be a practical alternative to bringing your own. Here are the pros and cons of both options:
Advantages of renting
- Less packing and easier transport
- Opportunity to test new equipment
- Ideal for children who grow quickly
- Easier to change if something doesn't fit
- Avoid maintenance and servicing
Advantages of own equipment
- Equipment you are used to and comfortable with
- Often more economical in the long run
- Always available for spontaneous rides
- Perfectly customised to your needs
- No waiting time at the rental
In Sälen there are several rental outlets with modern equipment for all ages and levels. Please book in advance, especially in high season, to ensure availability.
A good compromise option is to bring your own boots but rent skis. This way you get the comfort of snow boots but don't have to transport the skis.
Smart packing tips for travelling to the mountains
With the right packing techniques, you can carry everything you need without making your luggage too heavy or bulky. Here are our top tips:
Before you pack
- Make a packing list and tick it off as you go
- Check weather forecasts for Sälen in the days before
- Check what is in the accommodation (towels, kitchen equipment, etc.)
- Plan outfits for each day to avoid overpacking
Packing technician
- Rolling clothes instead of folding them - saves space and reduces wrinkles
- Use packing bags or cubes to organise different categories
- Pack heavy things in the bottom of the bag
- Utilise boot cavities for small items
- Use vacuum bags for bulky clothes
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overpacking - you don't need a new outfit for every day
- Forgetting sun protection - the sun is strong in the mountains!
- Packing only for cold weather - it can be surprisingly warm in the spring sun
- Not carrying enough fluid replacement
- Packing new, unused boots or shoes - blisters can ruin your holiday
If you're flying, pack your essentials in your hand luggage - especially underwear and ski socks. This way you can still travel even if your checked baggage is delayed.
Complete checklist for your winter week in Sälen
To make your packing as easy as possible, here is a summary checklist that you can use when preparing your trip to Sälen:
Skiing equipment
- Skis/snowboard
- Boots/boots
- Stavar
- Helmet
- Ski goggles
- Back protectors
Clothing
- Underwear (2-3 sets)
- Intermediate layer (fleece/wool)
- Ski jacket and ski trousers
- Extra mittens and socks
- Hat and buff
- Comfortable clothes for the evenings
- Indoor shoes/slippers
Accessories
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen cream
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Backpack for the slopes
- Thermos and water bottle
- First aid kit
- Mobile phones and chargers
- camera
- power bank
For the accommodation
- Towels (if not included)
- Toiletries
- Entertainment (books, games)
- Kitchen basics
Document
- Booking confirmation
- Insurance information
- ID document
- Means of payment
Book your winter week in Sälen with Sälengodset
Now that you have your bags packed, it's time to book your dream accommodation in Sälen. At Sälengodset, we offer high-quality accommodation in the perfect location for your winter week.
Our accommodation combines comfort with proximity to the ski slopes and trails. After an active day in Sälen's winter landscape, you can relax in a warm and inviting environment with all the amenities you need.
Whether you're travelling with family, friends or as a couple, we have the perfect accommodation for you. From cosy cottages to spacious lodges - all with that special mountain feel that makes your holiday memorable.
Ready for an unforgettable winter week in Sälen?
Book your accommodation at Sälengodset and get access to comfortable, well-equipped chalets perfectly located near the ski slopes. We will help you create the perfect winter week in Sälen!
With the right packing and the perfect accommodation, you are ready for a great winter week in Sälen. We at Sälengodset look forward to welcoming you to the mountains!
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