Although ski trips are supposed to be about fun and relaxation, nothing puts a damper on things quicker than forgetting important items. Even worse is having a problem on the slope and not even realizing there was a solution out there the entire time. Below are the 6 most important things to remember to bring on a ski trip, including a few that may seem somewhat unexpected.
1. Hot Hands
If you’re skiing a small slope on a sunny day then maybe these aren’t all that necessary. But when you find yourself getting fresh powder on the back slope in a town like Vail, hot hands suddenly become a bit more important. These novel inventions require no outside heat to light, and can last up to 5 hours in a glove or boot. They can mean the difference between toasty comfort and frostbite on a particularly cold day.
2. Windbreaker
Colorado peaks like Vail can reach altitudes of 8500 feet or more, meaning wind chill is a definite possibility during any trip. Add this to the blowing that occurs when one’s bombing down a mountain, and suddenly a chilly day just became a tundra. A good windbreaker on top of every other article of clothing will help stop this chill in its tracks, meaning one can stay on the slopes longer with more comfort. Certain companies make windbreakers that fold up neatly, so they can be carried around in a small ball or package until they are to be used.
3. Sunscreen
Usually, a skiier won’t feel particularly warm on the mountain. But the sun will likely still be out if there are no clouds to cover it. What’s more, it is much easier to get burnt by the sun’s rays when at high elevations. A sunscreen of at least SPF 30 should be brought and applied liberally, and re-applied every few hours to avoid a nasty burn.
4. Washcloth
Fogged goggles are not just an annoyance – they are a debilitating problem that can lead to dangerous accidents on the slopes. Carrying a washcloth is essential to clear one’s goggles whenever there is a problem. This should either be a dedicated cloth made of the proper material, or disposable ones if they are preferred.
5. Ski socks
Somehow, people are still forgetting this one. Getting to wear ski socks is probably the best part of hitting the slopes – why anyone would shun it is beyond us. These socks are a bit more expensive than the standard white tube sock, but they go a long way in providing comfort and warmth.
6. Backpack
No, not just any backpack. That dual-pocket Jansport may have served its duty back in high school, but a snowy mountain is much less forgiving than a lockered hallway. The skiiers backpack should be waterproof, and large enough to carry all the previously mentioned items, along with whatever else one is bringing. Skiiers and snowboarders alike should never overstuff their bag, as the weight can throw off one’s balance during skiing, and hurt during a fall.
When Mary White is not writing about traveling, she’s researching the best Vail accommodations for her next Colorado ski trip onwww.gcpvail.com.
