Packing Tips for Your Ski Trip: Don't take more than you need too. You can buy almost anything you need locally.
1. Lay out everything you think you need. Buy mini toiletries, it should be possible for anyone to fit everything that they need into a medium sized suitcase.
2. Don’t pack hair dryer, towels, alarm clocks or other extras if you think they may be available at the hotel – check before you go.
3. Remember if this is your first skiing trip, you don’t have to buy everything you need –boots and skis can easily be rented at your resort. Then, on your next trip, you will have a much clearer idea of which equipment you really want to invest your cash in.
4. Sun glasses, sunscreen and lip balm is a must. Sunglasses will stop the glare from the sun, which is reflected up from the snow. You should also put a high factor cream (at least 30) on your ears, under your chin and nose. Even if the weather is cloudy, sunscreen should be used.
5. Goggles aren’t worth buying ahead if you don’t already have some – if you hit on a blue-sky week, you won’t use them and if it’s blizzard conditions, you can buy them on the spot.
6. Snow clothing, like padded pants are often the best choice for skiing. Also consider layers like long wool or cotton underwear to keep you warm and cozy. Be sure to bring a few changes of clothing, since you may get wet, and don’t forget you can rent ski clothing as well as ski equipment.
7. Choose your ski outfits carefully – make sure they can be worn with your practical shoes or boots. Casual clothing is all you need to wear after skiing, even in a nice hotel.
8. Warm hat is a priority, did you know you could lose 30% of your body heat through your head.
9. Good quality ski gloves are vital when spending the day skiing.
10. There’s nothing worse than cold feet so proper ski socks are essential. They are specially designed to wick the moisture away from your feet so that they remain warm and dry. If wear two pairs or thick socks, the moisture from your sweaty feet will freeze. Ski socks really are a worthwhile investment.
11. Ski socks will easily dry overnight, so you only really need to invest in a couple of good pairs and wash them in the evenings. Don’t be tempted by the cheap “tube socks” that you will be told are for skiing – they’re not.
12. Roll your clothes for the best use of space. The rolls can then be fitted around the harder items in your case. If you have thin clothing from fine materials, roll a few items together to stop them from creasing.
13. Most hotels have leisure facilities, so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit – it’s not that bulky and then you won’t miss out.
14. You can buy special compression bags that you put your clothes in and seal. You then press the air out of the bag through small vents, which to compress your clothes. This is great for bulky ski gear, like fleeces and jackets which contain a lot of air, and means that you can fit more into your case.
15. It’s a good idea to pack your car with extra non-perishable foods like crackers and juices if you get stuck on the road in traffic or bad weather.
16. Mobile phone chargers and adapter plugs are two of most common items to be left behind.
17. Check online for the latest weather report.
