5 expert skiers' secrets for travelling light

Travelling to the snow doesn't have to mean an overflowing suitcase, endless lines and extra roaming costs. In fact, savvy skiers tend to travel light, book early and stay connected with affordable alternatives, such as an eSIM card or pocket WiFi. 

If you're planning a getaway to the Alps or Colorado this season, take note of these 5 clever hacks that will make your next trek a (stylish) ride through the mountains.

1. The essentials fit in a rucksack... if you know how to choose

Those who ski several times a year know that travelling light is key, so they go for the essentials:

• Lightweight thermal layers
• High-performance clothing that dries quickly

• Cap that also protects the neck
• Gloves with removable lining
• Protective goggles with a hard case

When it comes to luggage, the real experts travel only with a carry-on backpack: compact, functional and cabin-friendly. The key? Use compression bags to minimise the volume of technical clothing, and leave the bulkier items (boots, helmet, poles) to rent at the destination or send by specialised parcel. This way, you avoid damaging the most expensive equipment.

2. Well thought out itineraries = more time in the snow.

Experienced skiers do not improvise their trip. They choose strategic dates to avoid crowds, fly midweek to save money and look for accommodation with direct access to the slopes (ski-in/ski-out) to maximise time on the mountain.

They also calculate transfers with precision. Instead of wasting half a day between airport, buses and check-ins, they opt for well-connected destinations or rent a car with snow chains included. Some even combine several ski resorts into a single trip, taking advantage of passes like the Ikon Pass or the Epic Passwhich allow you to ski in different resorts without paying extra.

3. Smarter, less complicated reservations

Over time, frequent skiers have learned that booking directly with the resort is not always the most efficient or cost-effective option. That's why they turn to specialised apps that allow them to compare pass prices, buy in advance and even receive alerts when rates drop.

Tools for planning a day in the snow

Here are some of the most popular apps for frequent skiers to help them organise their day on the mountain:

• OpenSnowWeather forecasts: offers hyper-local weather forecasts, personalised alerts for fresh snow days and analysis by local experts. Ideal for choosing the best time to go out.
• FatMapInteractive 3D maps with detailed information about slopes, altitude and routes. Very useful for planning descents according to your level and terrain conditions.
• SlopesThe new GPS tracker: records your stats in real time (speed, elevation gain, duration of descents), allows offline mapping and sharing of your tracks with friends. Perfect for those who want to keep track of their progress.
• Ski TracksThe new ski logger: works offline and tracks your runs, top speed, distance and altitude. A reliable and simple option for skiers looking for performance without the hassle.
• Snonavacts as a mountain GPS with voice navigation, ideal for those skiing in a group or who want to keep their phone tucked away while receiving real-time directions.
• OnX BackcountryDesigned for off-piste skiing, it includes topographical maps, downloadable GPS routes and layers of snow and avalanche risk information. Highly valued by advanced skiers.

4. Time-saving (and headache-saving) technology: eSIM card and pocket WiFi

Frequent skiers know that technology, used well, can make all the difference to a trip. That's why they plan ahead and optimise their connectivity using specialised applications and digital solutions that save them time, money and unnecessary hassle. Instead of relying on hotel WiFi or paying for roaming, many are opting for an eSIM card or an eSIM device. pocket WiFiwhich allows them to activate mobile data from the first minute, without the need to change the physical SIM or search for a local shop.

But efficiency goes far beyond connectivity. Bookings, flight check-ins, ski passes and travel insurance are managed directly from the mobile phone. The more cautious store documents in the cloud, use offline map apps in areas with no signal and activate automatic notifications about the weather or the state of the slopes. They even carry AirTags or similar trackers to avoid losing baggage in transit.

The goal is clear: to automate logistics, reduce stress and devote all the energy to what is really important - enjoying the snow.