You've booked your perfect vacation rental; now it's time to pack your bags! Does anyone else always forget SOMETHING when they pack for winter vacation, or is it just us? Making a list and checking it off helps, and our tips on what you may need while visiting should help too! And don't worry, if you forget something, we have lots of great shops here in Teton Village, the town of Jackson, and everywhere in between.
How to Layer for Cold Mountain Weather
Layering correctly is critical for an enjoyable winter trip in Jackson Hole. Here's how we recommend layering the right way:
1. A wool or synthetic base layer. Cotton anything as a base layer will make you miserable - including socks!
2. A mid layer you can take off indoors. This is a light puffy coat and/or a fleece jacket. On the coldest days, we recommend wearing both if you plan to be outside for a while.
3. A shell on top. This is something like a rain jacket or a windbreaker. This will keep all that cold, dry mountain air from getting to you.
Ski and Snowboard Gear
Prep for your ski trip to Jackson with the basics:
- Skis and/or snowboards
- Ski poles
- Ski/snowboard boots
- Helmets
- Goggles
- Neck Gaiter
If you’re not bringing your own gear to Jackson, we’ve got you covered. We've partnered with Black Tie Ski Rentals to get you a discount on ski rentals delivered right to your door. Read more about how it works here.
Ski Clothing
Layers, layers, layers! The weather in Jackson is often unpredictable; it might be subzero temps in the morning, but as the sun comes out (and your heart gets pumping from a few runs), a light jacket may do. Dress in layers: bring thermal tops and pants (non-cotton is best) to wear under your ski pants. Then if you need to lose a few layers, it’s easy to do. Pack a beanie for under your helmet and bring a neck gaiter (which can double as a mask!), and you’ll be much more comfortable. A final check-off for goggles and gloves, and you’re all set.
- Warm clothing
- Extra socks
- Woven hats/Beanies
- Scarves/Neck Gaiters
- Light Jacket
- Thick Jacket
- Waterproof Boots
The Essentials
Jackson sits around 6,200 feet, and the valley regularly drops below zero overnight in January. What surprises people more than the temperature is the dryness. Pack lip balm, hand lotion, and a refillable water bottle, and plan on drinking more than you think you need to. Reusable water bottle
- Lotion, Aquaphor & chapstick (it gets dry!)
- Sunscreen
- Laptops/iPads
- Chargers
Around Town
Once you’re done for the day, it’s off to dinner and nightlife around Jackson. You might find it more comfortable to have a lightweight but warm thermal jacket, a pair of gloves, and something to keep your head warm...in case you want to make your way between several nightspots!
And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! Some of our rentals have hot tubs to soak away those sore muscles or you can visit some of the area hot springs.
Start your packing list and get ready to have a great trip to Jackson Hole!