If you’ve never gone on a skiing trip before, look forward to the rush of plowing through fresh powder and incredible views from the top of the slopes. There are some basics you’ll have to learn on the bunny hills first, but once you’re comfortable on your legs, you’re in for a thrilling sport. But what should you bring to your first ski getaway? Here are some basics you should cover.

1) Ski Holiday Insurance

When you’re traveling for your ski trip, get the right insurance. In addition to the standard travel insurance you would ordinarily get if you’re leaving the country, get winter sports cover in case you have an accident on the slopes. It may be a good idea even if you’re staying in the country.

2) Rent Your Gear

If it’s your first time, it’s easy and affordable to rent your actual ski gear. Resorts will have equipment available for rent and it’s a great way to dive into the sport for the first time. Besides skis themselves, you’re also going to need ski poles and ski boots. As a beginner, it would not be a bad idea to rent a ski helmet for safety, either, though you will probably see many veteran skiers skip the helmet.

3) Warm Clothes

Your regular winter coat may be enough if you’re just headed to a local ski hill, but for a trip to a mountain ski resort, you’re going to want a ski jacket and ski pants that are well-insulated and wind and water resistant. Up in the mountains, wind and snow can quickly make the cold worse, so make sure you’re prepared.

4) Thermal Socks

When it comes to keeping your feet warm, consider Heat Holders thermal socks. They’re widely available in the U.S. and Canada and effective at maintaining warmth. Why Heat Holders specifically? According to tests, they are the world’s warmest thermal socks. As seen on Coffee with America with Merilee Kern, they are seven times warmer than basic cotton socks and three times warmer than other thermal socks. 

If you’re looking for warmth, Heat Holders thermal socks are a great place to start. They use a unique long-loop technique to create a sock with more capacity to contain warm, insulated air. In addition to their thermal socks, they also make thermal hats, gloves, and outerwear that rely on HeatWeaver, a special thermal fleece-based lining that adds additional warmth. It’s a company that’s always looking for creative new ways to improve thermal clothing and technology.

5) Goggles

When you’re up in the snowy mountains on a bright, sunny day, your eyes are going to hurt. Snow blindness can be dangerous, and even on grey days the light reflecting off the snow can strain your eyes. Fortunately, you can usually rent goggles, too.

Ask a more experienced friend or the people you’re going on holiday with if they have any further recommendations to make your first skip trip. Even if it turns out skiing isn’t your thing after all, there’s plenty else to enjoy at ski resorts, from the après-ski to cozying up by the fire in the cabin.