Packing the Essentials for Winter Vacations

In all the excitement of planning a winter get away, make sure to bring the necessary things from home to save yourself time and money during your vacation. Clothing is probably the majority of what you take with you on any vacation, but when headed to a colder climate to engage in winter sports there are some things you don't want to go without. Take your time, make a list, and be sure to double and triple check before you depart for the airport.

Since much time in Vail is swishing through the slopes and riding ski lifts, layering is the best way to dress for the slopes. Typically your body temperature fluctuates greatly while you are on the mountain – typically warmer as you ride, and quick to cool down as you ride the lifts back up. Make sure to have several sets of thermal underclothing, socks, and underwear. These garments are not something you want to worry about washing and drying every time you are ready to ski or snowboard. Make sure you have several sets as base clothing you can wear each time you swoosh through the Colorado powder.

In addition to the underclothing, outerwear is the next important caveat to your winter wardrobe. Good jackets can be expensive, and there is a pretty logical reason: most are built strong, warm, and accessible. Manufacturers know that unlike hooded sweatshirts or fleeces, most people can only afford one very nice winter ski/snowboard jacket - so they make sure that nothing is left out. If you have the option to buy matching pants, that can often result in a lower combined price. However, winter sport pants are available in any variety to match any jacket.

Goggles, gloves, sunglasses, protective gear - some of these you may decide to bring, others you may buy as needed. A favorite pair of prescription glasses or goggles may be necessary, but in the name of saving as much space as possible, cheap and bulky items can often be purchased or rented. This allows you to avoid the hassle of cramming each and every piece of your snow arsenal into a couple of suitcases. However, you want to be sure not to forget the little details like a weatherproof camera case, or a winter backpack.


It's largely a judgment call, but the best thing to consider is if the price to buy the item new is more attractive than the thought of lugging every single piece of winter clothing and accessories you have, you may benefit to purchase many items in your arsenal at you holiday location. Boots are a great example of where you can save some space or save some money - if your snow boots take up more space than they are worth, consider renting a pair. However, if you have the latest, state of the art, best winter boots around, you definitely want to take them with you.

Your actual skis or snowboard is something that you definitely want to take with you if you are a serious rider. If it is you first time, or the slopes are just a leisurely hobby you may want to consider renting equipment instead. The point is, unless you already own and/or very serious about carving through the white stuff don't make a point of buying any expensive or bulky gear just for a holiday retreat - there are plenty of options to rent on a daily, or even weekly, basis. Renting also helps the novice rider by having pro-shop employees help you decide what size, shape, etc. is best for you on the slopes - something that a retailer may not be as concerned about.

When Mary White is not writing about traveling, she's researching Vail accommodations for her next Colorado ski trip on gcpvail.com.