pack like a pro: hut trip tips & trips from the wild rye team

Heading out on a backcountry ski hut trip? Congratulations—you’ve signed up for a glorious combination of skiing, sweating, and realizing halfway up the skin track that you brought way, way too much stuff. Packing for a hut trip is an art form: you want to stay warm, fed, and safe, but also not feel like a pack mule. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, share a few sneaky tricks, and help you avoid rookie mistakes (like bringing three base layer tops but no socks). We're here to help you pack smarter and ski happier with these 10 essential tips and tricks. 

Know the Hut Setup. Before you pack, find out what’s available at the hut. Does it have cookware, sleeping pads, or firewood? Or is it more bare-bones? Is there a sauna? (Uhh, yes please!) Knowing what’s already provided can save you from hauling unnecessary items. Bonus: less pack weight means more energy for skiing pow!

Layer Like a Pro. The key to staying warm (but not overheating) is layering. Bring a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool is your best friend here), an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget an extra set of base layers for lounging at the hut—nothing beats putting on dry clothes after a day in the snow.

Keep It Light. When in doubt, go for lightweight, packable gear. Down jackets, compact sleeping bags, and collapsible water bottles can save precious space and weight. Just make sure the lighter gear doesn’t compromise warmth or durability.

Share the Load. If you’re heading out with a group, coordinate who’s bringing what. There’s no need for everyone to pack their own stove or first aid kit. Divide and conquer to lighten everyone’s load.

Don’t Forget the Essentials. First off - beacon (full battery), shovel, probe - obvi. In addition, it’s the little things that can make a big difference. Pack a headlamp (with extra batteries), a multi-tool, sunscreen, ski straps, and a GPS or InReach. You’ll thank yourself when the sun sets early or you need to MacGyver a fix on the trail.

Premake Breakfast Burritos. You'll never regret having a solid breakfast that is quick, substantial, nutritious and requires minimal clean up.

Pack Smart, Not Just Small. Organization is key. Use stuff sacks or packing cubes to keep your gear tidy and accessible. Put items you’ll need frequently, like snacks or gloves, in an easily reachable spot in your pack. Digging for gear in a snowstorm is nobody’s idea of fun.

Test Your Gear. Don’t be the person breaking in new boots on the way to the yurt or setting up a new beacon at the breakfast table. Test everything beforehand—make sure your headlamp and beacon have batteries, your pack fits comfortably, and your boots don’t cause blisters. A little prep goes a long way.

Use Your Big Puffy as a Pillow. This will save valuable packing space AND ensures your coziest layer is nice and toasty in the morning when you go to put it on. It’s also easy to find if you need to make a midnight trip to the pee tree! (pro tip: keep your headlamp in the pocket for an even easier time)

Don't Be Afraid of Luxury. Yes, you’re technically “roughing it”…but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun. A paperback book (or kindle), a deck of cards, and a pair of camp slippers can make your trip feel a bit more special without adding much weight.

Since it’s not our first rodeo when it comes to to a backcountry hut expedition, take some tips from the Wild Rye team for stepping up your yurt game:

• Bring extra socks (for skiing AND lounging)
• Really good coffee and the necessary accouterments—half and half, maple syrup, your fave mug (bonus if it also works for your après beverages)
• Cards!
• Wigs make everything funnier and more fun (this one is extra important if it's a bad snow year)
• A harmonica or other musical instrument — size and packability is up to you — for endless entertainment
• A camera of some sort (bonus points for film)
• Cookies/chocolate bar/a sweet treat for dessert is ALWAYS a good idea (trust us, you’ll be the hut MVP)

Packing for a backcountry ski trip doesn’t have to be a puzzle—or a workout in itself. With a little planning, the right gear, and a little help from your friends, you can hit the skin track feeling prepared and excited for the adventure ahead. Remember, it’s all about balance: bring what you need, leave what you don’t, and trust that the mountains will provide the rest (well, except snacks—definitely bring lots of those). Now go enjoy the snow, the views, and the cozy hut vibes—you’ve earned it!

To make it easy for you, we've put together a collection of our favorite must-haves for a hut trip - check it out!