You’re Going Skiing!

And you probably need help.

Going on a ski trip requires a lot of planning and herding cats, but consider us your ski trip therapist — we are here to help. Have you thought of all weather conditions, all the evenings out in town, and all the ways to get your skis or snowboards from point A to B? If so, wonderful. You should be a travel agent. If not, pay attention to the list, check it twice, and try not to stress too much.

Remember: You’re going skiing! Now let’s make sure you don’t forget anything at home.

Step 1: Ski/Snowboard Clothing

When suiting up for any mountain you only need to know one word–layers. No matter where you’re skiing–Colorado, Washington, Vermont, or even Tennessee–you need to be prepared for anything. That means dressing in layers not made of cotton so you don’t become a frozen dummy for Ski Patrol. Please don’t become a frozen dummy, dummy.

Base Layer (Top) – 1-2 tight fitting & moisture wicking i.e. wool, polyester, etc.
Base Layer (Bottom) – 1-2 see above
Socks – 2-4 thin, wool, tall socks
Mid-Layer (top) – 1 fleece or thin down vest/jacket
Jacket
Pants – insulated for deep winter and light skiing, non-insulated for early/late season & aggressive skiing
Gloves or Mittens
Glove/Mitten Liners
Buff, Neck Gaiter, or Balaclava – to protect your neck and face from wind & snow

Step 2: Gear

Packing ski & snowboard gear to bring with you on your travels can be a bear. There is tremendous benefit to bringing your own equipment, especially your boots, but if you don’t want to deal with the hassle you can always rent the gear when you get to your destination.

We recommend Black Tie Skis. They will come to your room, personally fit your equipment to you, and delivery is totally free. They will even come find you and service your gear on the ski run that you just took a tumble on because you thought you “still had it” after not skiing for three years.

Now for the list.

Skis and/or Snowboard
Boots
Poles
Goggles
Goggle Lenses – important for changing light conditions
Helmet

Step 3: Casual Clothing

Ever tried driving in ski boots? Maybe it’s best you bring another set of footwear. Resorts have great towns to walk around in, and it would be a shame if you didn’t have something other than your ski gear to wear. Besides, you have to look nice for dinner.

Snow Boots
Winter Coat
Winter Hat
Gloves and/or Mittens
Sweaters
Shirts
Pants
Wool Socks
Rain Coat
Underwear
Pajamas

Step 4: The Rest

There’s a laundry list of things you could supplement this list with. Do you have children coming along? Do you require medication, medical equipment, or a CPAP? Photos of your dog? From this point, it’s about planning for a trip anywhere. Take it away almighty packer.