Basic ski travel tips

Check out Ski and Stay packages that include lodging, lift tickets, and possibly a lesson. You'll save by bundling your trip.

Time Your Ski Trip -

Consider a mid-week or early or late season trip. There are often significant discounts for mid-week and off-season skiers. Also, if you have the flexiblity to travel at a moment's notice, you can find last minute deals and discounts. Check directly with the ski resort for availability.

Car Rentals -

If you're traveling with your skis and equipment, consider renting a skier sized car that comes with a ski rack. GPS navigation devices are available through some car rental agencies. If you're skiing at multiple locations, both come in handy.

Packing Your Bags

Check With the Airline - Check airline regulations before you start packing. Most airlines allow a carry-on bag, a personal item you can also bring on board with you, two suitcases, and one sports (i.e. ski) bag, but make sure your luggage and gear meets the requirements in advance of your ski trip.

Ski Bag -

I use a ski bag that holds two pairs of skis, or a snowboard back that can hold up to four with the bindings removed, then cram it full of ski pants, jackets, and other gear. Be careful it doesn't go over 50 lbs in weight or it will cost you an extra $50.

Boot Bag -

My boot bag travels with me as carry-on luggage. Besides my boots, it holds my helmet and a day's worth of ski clothing - base layer, gloves, ski pants, ski jacket, boot heaters, and the rest of my gear. That way, if my baggage gets delayed, my skiing won't be held up.

Travel Documents

Just in Case -

I print out duplicate copies of my boarding passes (I check-in before I leave), flight itinerary, car reservation, and hotel reservation. I keep the extra copy in my carryon bag, just in case I need it.

Packing list -

For skiing: skis, poles and boots… ski outfit of parka and pants or suit… shell or vest… ski hat and headband… gloves or mittens (ski and casual)… goggles and sunglasses… thermal underwear… wool socks… ski sweaters… turtlenecks… neck gaiter/face mask… fannypack . . . after-ski boots.

For après ski -

women should have blouses or sweater, skirts or slacks and dress shoes. Men need a sport jacket, slacks and tie (for casinos) and dress shoes.

Additional items are -

underwear… swimsuit… cosmetics… sun cream… chapstick… extra drug prescriptions… extra eye glasses… camera, film and batteries… toilet articles, including washcloth and soap… laundry soap and small clothes line… converter for electricity… travelers checks