Snowcat Skiing & Heli Skiing Packing Checklist

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Planning for a snowcat or heliskiing vacation can be a bit tricky especially if you have never gone on this type of holiday before. It is compounded if you are traveling overseas to new climates.

There are really two main types of ski lodging when you go snowcat or heli skiing. You will either be staying in town or at a remote lodge. Each type of lodging will require a different level of packing.

Lets start with town based lodging:

Since you will be staying at a lodge or hotel in town you can generally bring what you want. Normally bring what you would wear on any holiday. Remember though it will be winter in British Columbia so bring warm cloth and boots.

A back country lodge is different.

There are transportation issues that require limited luggage. Fly in lodges are especially rigid with baggage that restriction are strictly upheld. You should pack accordingly and only bring what is really necessary.

• 1-2 outfits for evening wear. Informal is usually the norm in the backcountry
• basic toiletries
  • toothbrush and toothpaste
  • shampoo
  • deodorant
  • razor
  • anything else...
• Slippers
• Swim Suit (hot tub)
• Basic is best - some resorts limit to 25 pounds per guest.

Clothing for Powder Skiing

• Powder suit or 2-piece ski suit
• Mitts or gloves w/ extra liners
• Neck tube
• Neoprene face warmer (for those extra cold days)
• Toque or helmet
• Under wear both shirt and pants
• Insulating socks
• Heavy shirt (fleece)
• Fleece pants

Ski Equipment

• Skis, boot, poles or snowboard (or rent from the operator)
• Helmet

Other Useful Stuff

• Medication
• Small LED Flashlight - Some lodges have no power through the night.
• Good Book
• Sun screen
• Lip Balm
• Deck of cards
• Camera
• GPS

Documentation

• Passport (unless you're in Canada, of course)
• 2 pieces of picture ID
• Medical cards
• Credit or Debit Cards
• Some checks for purchases at remote lodges that do not have electronic payments.

What Not to Bring (Mostly for Remote Lodges)

• Boot or ski/snowboard bags
• Boot dryers
• Liquor (check with operator for availability)
• Ski/board tuning equipment
• Lap tops

You can use the list above to get most of what you need to enjoy your cat skiing or heliskiing trip. If you have specific questions you can contact me using the link at the bottom of the page or the operator you have booked with.

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