Korean winters are dry and cold, and you can rent most big gear. What to bring from home, what to rent or buy locally, plus plugs, apps and a printable checklist.
So you've booked your flight. Now you're staring at your suitcase wondering if you need that second heavy coat.
Because Korean winters are unusually dry and cold (and because you can rent almost anything here), your packing list should be strategic.
Don't overpack bulky items. Do pack the essentials that you cannot rent.
1. The "Must Bring" (Cannot Rent)
You can rent skis, boards, jackets, and pants. For hygiene and comfort reasons, these are things you should bring yourself:
- Goggles: Rental goggles are usually scratched and foggy. Bring your own. Low-light lenses (yellow/pink) are best for night skiing.
- Gloves/Mittens: Rental shops sell cheap gloves, but they soak through fast. Bring high-quality, waterproof mittens. Fingers freeze separately; mittens keep them together.
- Base Layers (Thermal Underwear): Uniqlo Heattech (Ultra Warm) is practically the national uniform here. Bring 2 sets.
- Ski Socks: Do not wear cotton socks. Bring thin, merino wool ski socks. Thick socks actually cut off circulation and make your feet colder.
2. The "Nice to Have"
- Balaclava / Face Mask: Essential for the wind. You can buy them here, but bringing your favorite is better.
- Swimsuit: Wait, what? Yes. Several big resorts, such as Vivaldi Park and Phoenix Park, have water parks or spas. Soaking in hot water after a cold day on the slopes is a highlight.
- Slip-on Boots: For walking around the resort village. Laces are annoying when you want to pop in and out of restaurants.
3. The "Don't Bother" (Rent or Buy Here)
- Helmet: Rental helmets are easy to find, and rental shops outside the resorts often throw them in free or for a small fee.
- Heavy City Coat: If you have a good ski jacket, wear that. You don't need a separate formal wool coat unless you are going to a fancy dinner in Gangnam. The long padded coat is the winter uniform of Korea, and you can buy a cheap one at a market if you really need it.
4. Electronics & Plugs
- Adapter: Korea uses 220V with round two-pin plugs (Type C/F), the same as Germany or France.
- Power Bank: The cold drains batteries. Bring a chunky 10,000mAh battery for your pocket.
- Google Translate App: Download the Korean (Offline) language pack.
- Naver Map: Google Maps is limited for walking and driving directions in Korea. Download Naver Map (or KakaoMap).
Han's Secret Weapon
Lip Balm and Hand Cream.
The air is incredibly dry. Your lips will crack on day 1. Your knuckles will crack on day 2.
Bring heavy-duty moisturizer.
Summary Checklist
- Merino Wool Base Layers (Top/Bottom)
- Ski Socks (Wool)
- Good Mittens
- Goggles (Low light lens)
- Swimsuit (For the spa)
- Type C/F Adapter
- Naver Map Installed
Everything else? We have 24-hour convenience stores. You'll be fine. Planning to rent the big stuff? Read our guide to renting ski gear in Korea.