What to Wear on Uludağ: Winter Layers and a Packing List

Dress for Uludağ in winter using the three-layer principle: a breathable base layer next to the skin; a fleece or thin wool mid-layer over it; and a waterproof, windproof jacket and trousers on the outside. Jeans and cotton T-shirts take a long time to dry once wet, so they make you cold in the snow. If you don't have a ski jacket and trousers, you can hire them from ski rental shops; you need to bring your own gloves, hat, socks and sunglasses.

Why dress in layers?

Conditions on the mountain change often during the day. When you get off the coach in the morning it may be cold and windy; when the sun comes out around midday, you warm up quickly, especially while skiing. Wearing several thin layers instead of one thick jumper means you can take one off and put it in your bag as you warm up.

1. Base layer

The job of the layer next to your skin is to wick sweat away. Synthetic or merino wool base layers do this well. Cotton vests and T-shirts, on the other hand, hold sweat, stay wet and make you cold quickly when you stop for a break.

2. Mid-layer

A fleece, a thin wool jumper or a light puffer gilet keeps you warm. If it's very cold, two thin mid-layers work better than one thick jumper.

3. Outer layer

Your ski jacket and ski trousers should be waterproof and windproof. Whether you stay dry when you sit in the snow, fall over or go sledging depends on this layer. Even if you're not going to ski, waterproof trousers make the day much more comfortable.

What you can hire and what you need to bring

On the Uludağ tour programme, ski passes, ski clothing and equipment can be provided by the ski rental shop. Ski rental shops usually hire out:

• Ski jackets and trousers
• Ski boots, skis and poles
• Helmet

For hygiene and personal use reasons, you should bring these yourself:

• Ski socks: thin, knee-high socks that hug the foot reduce friction inside the boot. Bring a spare pair too.
• Gloves: waterproof ski gloves are ideal; wool gloves get wet quickly in the snow.
• Hat or neck warmer: a thin beanie that fits under a helmet and a neck warmer that keeps out the wind are enough.
• Sunglasses or ski goggles: snow reflects sunlight, so dark lenses are essential to protect your eyes.
• Sunscreen and lip balm: your face can burn even in cloudy weather.

Choosing shoes

Even if you're not skiing, footwear is the most important item. Choose waterproof boots with non-slip soles that support your ankles. Trainers get wet quickly in the snow and leave your feet cold all day. If you're skiing, wear comfortable shoes on the coach and at breakfast, and pick up your ski boots at the ski rental shop.

Packing list for the day trip

On the day trip you set off early in the morning; the day begins with breakfast in Cumalıkızık and a history tour in Bursa before you head up Uludağ. So you need an outfit that is comfortable in the city and warm on the mountain. A small backpack is enough:

• Spare socks and a spare base layer (in case you get wet)
• Gloves, hat, neck warmer
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
• A small water bottle and snacks
• Power bank for your phone (batteries drain faster in the cold)
• ID document
• Any medication you take

A spare T-shirt and dry socks for a comfortable coach ride home make a big difference at the end of a long day.

Additional list for the 2-day tour

On the 1-night, 2-day programme you stay at a hotel. In addition to the list above, bring:

• Comfortable clothes and slippers for the hotel
• Pyjamas and toiletries
• A bag for wet clothes
• A second set of base layers and socks for the next day

As dinner and breakfast are served at the hotel, there's no need for smart clothes. For programme details, see our 2-day Uludağ tour guide.

Clothing tips for children

Children get cold faster than adults and play in the snow more, so they get wet more often. Have a one-piece ski suit and waterproof gloves, and always carry spare gloves and socks. Gloves that clip to the jacket sleeve are practical, so they don't get lost. For families, we've gathered detailed tips in our article A family winter holiday on Uludağ.

A note for school groups

For student groups, sending parents a short clothing list before the tour reduces the number of students who board the coach in the morning in trainers and jeans. If the number of participants and age range are shared in advance, equipment sizes can be prepared. For details, see our school trips page.

What to do if you get wet

Getting wet in the snow is inevitable, especially if you're skiing for the first time or children are playing in the snow. Change wet gloves and socks as soon as possible; waiting around in wet gloves makes your hands cold very quickly. When you take a break at the ski rental shop or a café, unzip your jacket to let the moisture out. At the end of the day, putting on dry socks and a base layer before getting on the coach makes the journey home much more comfortable.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear jeans to Uludağ?

Jeans get heavy when wet and take a long time to dry, so they make you cold in the snow. Choose ski trousers or waterproof trousers; if you don't have any, you can hire them from a ski rental shop.

Can ski clothing be hired on Uludağ?

Yes, jackets, trousers, boots and helmets can be hired at ski rental shops. You need to bring your own gloves, hat and socks.

What should I wear if I'm not skiing?

A waterproof jacket and trousers, boots with non-slip soles, gloves and a hat are enough. Don't forget your sunglasses either.

Do I need sunscreen on Uludağ?

Yes. Because snow reflects sunlight, your face and lips can burn even in cloudy weather.