Your First Time Climbing in the Winter: 5 Things You Won’t Regret Packing
Heading out on your first winter climb? Congratulations — it’s one of the most fun (and challenging) ways to enjoy the mountains. But winter climbing comes with cold, snow, and wind that can turn a fun day into a miserable one if you’re not prepared. Here are some real-world packing tips with the five essentials you won’t regret bringing on your first winter alpine adventure.
1. Insulated Water Bottle or Thermos (+ Tasty Snacks)
Cold climbs make hydration easy to forget — and nothing is worse than a frozen water bottle halfway up a mountain. Bring an insulated bottle or thermos filled with hot Gatorade, tea, or your favorite hydration mix.
PRO TIP: Pack some real snacks you actually want to eat: chocolate, leftover pizza, salami — things that taste good when you’re cold and hungry. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did.
GLOVES!
2. A Big Belay Parka — Non-Negotiable
Whether you’re belaying, taking a break, or waiting out the wind, a big, insulated belay parka is essential. It keeps you warm when your body isn’t moving and can be the difference between a comfortable day and a frozen one. Don’t skimp on this one.
3. Extra Gloves
Hands get wet, cold, and tired fast. Bring at least three pairs of gloves, ideally layered:
Lightweight liners
Insulated mid-layer gloves (work gloves)
Big warm gloves or mittens
Some days, we’ve been known to carry up to six pairs. It might sound extreme, but dry hands = happy hands, and happy hands = better climbing.
4. Face Covering — Balaclava
Wind, ice, and subzero temps can be brutal. A full face covering or balaclava protects your nose, cheeks, and neck from frostbite. It can double as a neck gaiter as well. Even a short unprotected stretch can leave you miserable, so don’t leave this behind.
5. One More Layer Than You Think You Need
You might be thinking, “I’ll be fine with what I’m wearing.” You won’t. Always pack one extra insulating layer. There’s nothing worse than wearing all your clothes and still being cold. Ask us how we know…
Quick checklist
Final Thoughts
Winter climbing is incredible, but preparation is everything. Your pack doesn’t need to be huge — it just needs to cover the essentials that keep you warm, fed, and moving. Focus on hydration, insulation, gloves, face protection, and an extra layer.
With these five items in your pack, your first winter climb will be safe, comfortable, and a lot more fun.
