Traveling from a temperate climate to the harsher mountain weather can be a challenge! It can often dip into the negatives on colder days. This means that while you’re staying here it is important to have the right equipment.
When guests come to visit us here in the Brighton Chalets, they often ask us what to bring. To help everybody come prepared, we’ve created a list of what to pack on a ski vacation in Utah! Check out our list of essentials on your next winter trip below!
The Two Main Things To Consider When Packing For A Ski Trip
The Base Layers
One of the best ways to stay warm in cold temperatures is by using layers. When you use layers it allows you to control your body temperature more efficiently. As you get warmer or colder throughout the day you can add or subtract layers. This helps prevent sweating. When you sweat in the cold it creates a cold damp cover around your body that prevents you from staying warm.
It’s important to have a water wicking base layer, and multiple additional layers to keep you warm throughout the day. These layers can come in the form of performance clothing and lighter layers that will keep you insulated throughout the day. When you have all of these layers ready it’s time to get to the most important part, the outer layer.
Having the right equipment will make skiing and snowboarding a much more enjoyable experience!
Waterproof Outer Layer
It is important to have a waterproof outer layer because you never know when it might snow, and heavy snowfall can happen throughout the day. Having water resistant or waterproof outer layers can help prevent getting wet from the snowfall, as well as help prevent your layers underneath from getting wet. This will help you stay warm and dry which is extremely important when you are outside for long periods of time.
There are a lot of crucial pieces of outer layer equipment that will help keep you safe and warm during your trip. Let’s start from the top!
Clothes To Pack For a Ski Vacation
Helmet
Although this isn’t a requirement, we highly recommend using a helmet. Helmets protect your head from injury, and they keep you warmer throughout the day. Your helmet should be comfortable so that it doesn’t bother you during the trip. It should also fit snugly around your head to provide the most protection.
There are a number of outdoor recreation stores that allow you to try different types of helmets on to see what works best for you. When deciding on your helmet you can also look for specific features like removable ear pads, goggle compatibility, or a camera mount to record your trip!
Goggles
Believe it or not, goggles are an important part of your safety equipment while riding. Using well-fitting goggles helps keep wind and snow out of your eyes. They also protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and keep your face warm while you ride. There are a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, and, there are a number of economical options to save you from breaking the bank!
Gaiter
A neck gaiter or a balaclava are great ways to keep your neck protected from the elements. They are also great ways to protect yourself and others from Covid and other contaminants while you are in the lodges or waiting in line. These can be found extremely cheap in a lot of sports stores and online sites.
Coat
There are a lot of options when it comes to winter coats. If you are looking to save some money, you can use an old rain jacket with a couple extra layers or any other waterproof coat you may have. If you plan to spend a lot of time on the slopes we recommend purchasing something designed for the sport.
Coats help keep you dry, protect you from abrasions, and keep you insulated in the cold. Although skiing and snowboarding are done in the same environment, the styles for each sport has changed. Generally ski clothing is more fitted due to the racing nature of the sport. Snowboard clothing is generally much looser, reflecting the skate culture that started the sport. Either type of clothing will work, it just depends on personal preference. Having specialized clothing helps provide better weather protection, and additional features like powder skirts and extra pockets.
Pants
Finding the right snow pants is very similar to choosing the right coat. The most important thing is finding something that fits well and provides water resistance. Next you should decide what style to use. Bibs are a popular choice for many riders because they provide additional protection from the snow. The downside is that they can be difficult to remove for restroom breaks or other emergency situations. Pants are slightly easier to use; however, sometimes snow can enter more easily which can provide a little discomfort while riding.
Gloves/Mittens
Choosing between gloves and mittens comes down to personal preference. The most important thing is that you have something waterproof and insulating for your hands. Here at Brighton Vacation Rentals we love mittens because they keep our hands warmer on the nippier days. Gloves are also great when you are thinking about what to pack on a ski vacation in Utah because they are handy for manipulating smaller things like bindings in the snow.
Boots
Boots are an extremely crucial part of your riding equipment. There are different types of boots for skiing and snowboarding. It is extremely important that you get the right ones for the sport you choose. Ski boots are fastened with multiple buckles along the boot to offer a snug fit to the rider’s feet and legs. The sole of the boots is designed to lock into the ski bindings and lock your boots on the skis. They also offer an inner shell for added support and insulation. Ski boots are rigid in order to protect your feet, ankles and legs from damage during falls or impacts.
Snowboard boots are also rigid in order to provide protection on the slopes. They generally fasten with laces or a ratchet system to keep them snug. Although some boots allow for direct attachment to the board, most boots have a simple sole on the bottom and can be used with most bindings.There are a variety of different styles of snowboarding boots including boots with liners as well as linerless options. Skiing and snowboarding boots provide much needed protection and warmth, and without them, your time on the slopes will be much less enjoyable. If you don’t have your own, there are a lot of rental options near the resorts.
Skis and Snowboards
If you are traveling from far away, rentals are one of the best ways to avoid the stress of transportation. You can find rental shops close to almost any ski town in the world. There are also rental options available within the resorts.
The Brighton ski resort in Utah provides an amazing rental shop that offers a variety of ski and snowboard packages for every age and ability. If you choose to ski, be sure to get your poles as well! These will help you balance as you learn the basics. We love rentals which is why we highly recommend this option to make it easier to pack for your ski vacation.
The Essentials
As with any trip, it’s important to bring the essentials. One thing that many people forget about when they pack for a ski vacation is sunscreen. You often think since it’s cold you won’t get burned, but that’s not true. The sun comes from above and reflects off the snow so it’s twice as easy to get burned. Always remember to use sunscreen on any skin that is exposed during the day. Another easy thing to forget is a swimsuit to enjoy the hot tubs at the resort. Don’t forget your pajamas, toiletries, chargers, and most of all, bring a positive attitude! Snow sports are a ton of fun, and it’s important to enjoy your time there! Be courteous of others, be safe on the slopes, and have a great time on your next ski vacation in Utah!