What to Pack for a Ski Trip to Argentina
Layers, gear, and the things most people forget. Our definitive packing list for skiing in the Southern Hemisphere.
Your Complete Packing List
Packing for skiing in Argentina is mostly the same as packing for any ski trip — with a few important differences. The Southern Hemisphere location, remote terrain, and variable weather mean you'll want to think carefully about what goes in your bag.
The Essentials
Ski gear you should bring:
- Helmet (mandatory at all Argentine resorts)
- Goggles with interchangeable lenses (low-light and sunny)
- Ski gloves and a spare pair of liner gloves
- Neck gaiter or balaclava (Andean winds are no joke)
Ski gear you can rent:
- Skis and boots — quality rental is available at all major resorts
- Poles — easily rented
We generally recommend bringing your own boots if you have well-fitted ones. Rental boots are fine for a few days but less comfortable over a full week.
Layering System
The key to Patagonian skiing is layering. Temperatures can swing from -15°C at the summit to +5°C at the base, often in the same day.
Base layer: Merino wool top and bottom. Avoid cotton — it holds moisture and you'll freeze.
Mid layer: Fleece jacket or lightweight down. We prefer a zip-up fleece for temperature regulation.
Outer layer: Waterproof, breathable ski jacket and pants. Gore-Tex or equivalent. Patagonian storms can be wet and windy.
Off-Mountain Wardrobe
Bariloche and San Martín de los Andes are casual mountain towns. You won't need formal wear, but a few things to pack:
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots
- A warm jacket for evening walks
- Layers for restaurant dinners (heated but not always warm)
- Swimsuit (for hot springs and heated hotel pools)
Often Forgotten
These are the items our guests most frequently wish they'd packed:
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ — The UV at altitude in Patagonia is intense, and the ozone layer is thinner in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Lip balm with SPF — Wind and sun will destroy your lips without it.
- Hand and toe warmers — Cheap insurance against bitter Andean cold.
- A small backpack — For carrying layers, water, and snacks on the mountain.
- Travel adapter — Argentina uses Type I plugs (same as Australia).
- Cash (Argentine pesos) — Some smaller shops and restaurants are cash-only.
What NOT to Pack
- Formal wear of any kind
- Too many "just in case" items — there are excellent outdoor shops in Bariloche
- Heavy hardcover books — load up your Kindle instead
Our Pre-Trip Service
Every guest receives a detailed pre-trip briefing two weeks before departure, including weather forecasts, updated packing recommendations, and resort conditions. We want you to arrive prepared and excited.