Do you plan on hitting the slopes this season? Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to be active during the winter months. So while the 2020-21 season may be a little different, it’s still possible to have some fun.
Foodservice is one of the biggest aspects of skiing that has changed. For now, we won’t have the lodge experience of popping in to warm up and grab some lunch. While many resorts have expanded their outdoor food service options, it still may be best to bring your lunches and snacks. But that leaves us wondering what the heck do we bring?
Want to learn what food to pack for a ski trip in 2021?
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Why Pack Your Food For A Ski Trip?
Why do we even need to pack food? Can’t we just grab it on the mountain? Yes, possibly, but things are a bit different this year. Gone are the days of hanging in the lodge to warm up and grabbing an overpriced hot dog or bowl of chili. Many resorts have instituted reservation systems and limit the time you can spend inside to accommodate everyone and maintain social distance requirements.
So to ensure you have a great day, it’s best to pack your own food. Not to mention it saves you a ton of money. And let’s face it, lift tickets are insanely expensive — we need to spend less wherever we can.
What Food To Pack for A Ski Trip in 2021
This article focuses on what food to pack for a day trip which includes lunch and snacks. If you are looking for a complete meal plan for a full vacation, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we’ve got you covered in our complete meal plan.
What Should I Eat While Skiing?
Skiing and riding, no matter how fast or slow you are going, is still exercise, and throughout the day, your body will need to refuel. You want to pack snacks that are healthy (for the most part) and portable.
Healthy Snacks For Skiers
- CLIF bars are our favorite bars because they easily fit into the chest pocket, so they are accessible when you are on the lift. Plus, they don’t get hard from the cold like some other protein bars.
- Honey Stinger Waffles – If you are looking for a nut-free alternative, this is it. These waffles are simple, delicious, and come in a variety of flavors.
- Nuts – Costco has prepackaged sleeves that are easy to eat. Just make sure whatever you buy is already shelled.
- Jerky – The simple protein will keep you full. Is it the healthiest? No, but in moderation, it is ok, and it can be yummy!
- Clementines – They are portable, easy to grab, and if you happen to wipe out, they are likely to remain intact.
- Not feeling these? There’s always Pocket Bacon.
Plan To Bring Your Lunch Skiing
Here are some fantastic ski day lunch ideas. Now I could pick some fancy meals, but we want simple, filling meals when eating lunch while skiing. We don’t want anything too complicated to prepare or eat!
- Cheese and crackers
- Hot Dogs
- Sandwiches
- Chili
- Hot Chocolate
- PBJ
- Salad with grilled chicken
Other Items to Pack
Don’t forget napkins, wipes to clean your hands, and any utensils you may need and bring tons of water.
Best Way To Pack Lunches and Snacks For A Ski Trip
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Thermos
If you are bringing anything warm, you are going to need a good thermos. Now there are two different types. Liquid thermoses have a smaller opening at the top, and the cap often doubles as a cup. The ones for food have a larger mouth to make it easier to get the food. When picking a thermos, you want one that is easy to clean, durable, and effective.
I love this one for kids.
It comes in a variety of colors and is dishwasher safe. We’ve had them for several years, and they look as good as when we bought them. The instructions say to put the thermos in hot water before loading. I’ve tried that method and didn’t find it worked any better than just placing the food inside. Buy it on Amazon.
For adults, this is the one to get.
It has a few more components than the one for kids, but it is still easy to clean. Plus, it will keep your food warm for several hours. Buy it on Amazon.
Water Bottles
We like these collapsible water bottles.
The Platypus ones are durable. I’ve tried others and they puncture very easily. That is NOT what you want in your water bottle. These are super light and fit into your pants pocket (when about ¾ full). Buy one on Amazon.
What Do You Think?
Do you now know what foods to pack for a ski trip? Any plans to hit the slopes this season? What foods are you bringing? Let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear!
Happy Skiing!
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Kalu says
All great suggestions. I haven’t been to the mountains in forever and your post makes me want to go back.