Top 20 things to pack when you’re going off piste
In a series of videos for Epic TV, backcountry ski guide Joe Vallone offers advice on how to stay safe when away from the pistes. In one video, he rounds up the essential items to pack in your backpack when planning to go off piste.
Sadly, each ski season brings news stories about deaths caused by avalanches in the Alps. For that reason, it's vital for skiers and snowboarders to remember the importance of safety and preparations when heading off piste.
Joe Vallone’s tips include the basic backcountry essentials of a shovel, probe and transceiver as well as extra layers and items to help you survive on your own, such as a head torch, tool kit, first aid kit and lighter.
Joe says skiers should always be prepared for the risk when going into the backcountry. "Backcountry is any time you're out of the controlled ski area boundary, and your rescue is never guaranteed," he explains. "If you go under a rope or into an uncontrolled area, you're responsible for your own actions and your own self-rescue."
He suggests carrying a radio or spot locator, but says: "At a bare minimum, please tell someone where you're going and what time you expect to be back." Even when the avalanche risk is low, the best advice for skiers and snowboarders is to only venture into the backcountry with a trained guide.
Joe's 20 backcountry essentials
Shovel
Probe
Transceiver
First aid kit
Emergency blanket
Lighter / waterproof matches
Head torch
Small tool kit
Sun cream
Lip balm
Duct tape
Knife
Radio
Snacks
Water
Map
Compass
Spare layer
Spare gloves
Fleece-lined neck gaiter