‘Tis the season for a mountain/ski vacation! Visiting a winter-wonderland brimming with outdoor recreation can be a magical and memorable – especially when you’re prepared for the elevation and elements.
Following is our list of must-haves and nice-to-haves for your next winter retreat.
Weather-appropriate clothing:
- » Thermal underwear and/or base layer, top and bottom
- » Waterproof ski pants or bibs
- » Waterproof gloves AND mittens (because you’ll want to keep your hands toasty on and off the slopes)
- » Waterproof ski or down jacket
- » Waterproof boots and/or shoes
- » Good, thick ski socks (wool, not cotton)
- » Scarf (this simple accessory will keep you surprisingly warm)
- » Ski beanie/head gear (see above)
- » Fleece layer (we recommend a light sweatshirt or vest)
Also, be sure to pack:
- » Swimsuit (most of our residences offer year-round access to pools and hot tubs, nothing better than cozying up in the hot tub as snowflakes fall around you)
- » Slippers (cause you want to be cozy by your fireplace)
- » Neck gaiter (this will be such a lifesaver in windy conditions)
- » Sunglasses
- » Hand and feet warmers
- » Toiletries, toothbrush, etc.
- » Granola bars, nuts, jerky, chips, cookies, fruit for a simple, while skiing snack that can be easily stashed in a jacket pocket.
- » Reservations (to dinner, for ski school, etc. as it can get crowded up here; our Concierge is delighted to make all reservations for you and can pre-stock your cabinets and refrigerator, too)
Ski/Snowboard gear:
- » Skis/boots/poles
- » Snowboard/boots
- » Helmet
- » Goggles
- » Tuning kit
This & that:
- » Sunscreen (closer to the sun, easier to get a sunburn—especially as sun bounces off the snow)
- » Lip balm, with SPF (see above)
- » Lotion and/or hand cream (because it’s dry in the mountains)
- » Water bottle or Camelbak (you’ll be getting a workout on the slopes and it’s much easier to get dehydrated at elevation)
- » Aspirin (dehydration and altitude can sometimes cause headaches)
- » Phone/electronics, chargers
For the car:
- » Chains (if not driving a 4WD or AWD)
- » Full water bottle and snacks (in case of emergency/freeway shut-down)
- » Extra blankets
- » Ice scraper
- » Flashlight
For family fun:
- » Games/cards (family + relaxation + warm fire = vacation perfection)
- » Books or magazines (see above)
- » Ice skates (there are ice skating rinks outside the door of many of our residences)
- » S’mores roasting sticks and ingredients (pro tip: try melting a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for an exquisite chocolate alternative)
- » Snowshoes, sled or snow tube
Want the ultimate convenience? Check out:
- » Resort Delivery
- » Luggage Forward
- » Ship Skis (ship your gear anywhere in the world)
- » Tahoe Mountain Lodging for studio to 4-bedroom lodging mere steps to the slopes, shopping, dining, ice skating, Starbucks, movies, pottery-making, fire pits, s’mores. Residences include a kitchen, great room with fireplace, washer/dryer, and guests can access a swimming pool, hot tubs, fitness center, a game room, ski locker and more.
See you in the mountains!
