This post come from Shane Robinson and Graybird Guiding, a Seattle based guide company that not only leads some sweet ski trips, but also has an Instagram full of solid tips. Connect with them at their website and on Instagram. Check out their hashtag #sknowmore for specific backcountry ski tips.

In the pack:

• Mountain Hardware 40 liter pack. It’s big enough for a full guide kit or bigger ski mountaineering objectives but can compress down for more average days. Bonus: helmet fits inside most days.

• Traverse Equipment repair kit

• trauma kit (cpr & extreme bleeding) separate from first aid kit and more accessible

• general first aid kit

• Alpine Threadworks rescue sled & bivy

• downhill gloves

• headlamp

• puffy coat for added warmth or as an emergency layer

• Trew Gear Anorak shell

• extra buff

• helmet

• goggles

• extra wool hat

• thermos for hot water/tea

• rescue shovel

• probe (ideally 300cm long)

• Leatherman multi-tool

• sunscreen & lip balm

• snow saw, with teeth that can also cut wood if needed in an emergency (not pictured)

• Garmin InReach (not pictured)

• cordelette, double length sling, and a couple carabiners (not pictured)

Actually wearing:

• Dissent Socks

• Trew Gear Nuyarn Merino bottoms

• Trew Gear Nuyarn Merino Tee

• NW Alpine Spider Hoody

• Trew Gear Up Jack

• Trew Gear Capow Bibs

• Hestra Ergo active gloves

• hat with visor

• sunglasses

• avalanche transceiver