Hi, friends! If you read my recent newsletter, you know by now that we are headed to Vail this week! It’s been a few years since I’ve been skiing and I can’t wait to see snow again. I usually start gathering the items I’m packing a few days ahead of time so that I don’t forget something. I recommend creating a checklist for yourself and saving it somewhere you can pull up later. I prefer using Google docs so I can access my lists anywhere. But if you don’t have one already made, I’ve created this handy checklist of what’s in my suitcase.

You should know that we are not checking any bags. All of the below is going into my carryon suitcase and personal item (usually a larger tote bag that holds my travel documents, purse, makeup, and camera). So, this may not be as complete a list as you need, depending on the length of your stay. We will be in Vail for 4 days, so it’s easy to pare it down a bit. We are also only skiing one day.

What I’m NOT packing: skis, helmet, poles, ski boots (all of this will be rented)

What’s in My Suitcase

Ski Clothes

• Ski pants
• Insulated jacket
• Gloves
• Ski socks
• Goggles
• Beanie
• Sports bra

My ski jacket is from Columbia and I love it. It’s insulated enough for the mountain but not bulky so I can easily fold it into my carryon and get double the use when out for dinner. I find ski boots to be really uncomfortable on my shins, so I found a great pair of compression ski socks that have additional support on the shin, calf, and ankle area. The Winter Olympics inspired me to upgrade my goggles a bit and this pair from Outdoor Master are perfect. Ladies, don’t forget your sports bra. There’s nothing worse than trying to ski while that dreaded underwire digs in.

Shoes

• Snow boots
• Booties/low profile boots
• Moccasins

I found this great pair of snow boots from Lands’ End and actually wore them for the first time in early December when San Antonio had a snowstorm (I know, crazy, right?). They’re not official until they touch Colorado snow, though. I’m bringing them to wear during the day and with casual outfits or après ski. I’m bringing booties for evenings, dinners, and more dressed up events. We have a few things planned that ski boots just wouldn’t work for. I would bring taller boots but I’m limited on packing space so lower profile booties are better. Moccasins for wearing around the hotel room to keep my feet nice and toasty.

Clothing

• Sweaters
• Layering tees
• Camis
• Flannel shirt
• Fleece-lined leggings
• Jeans
• Comfy pajamas

I’m packing sweaters for day adventures and evenings out. I bought several pairs of fleece-lined leggings before we went to Switzerland and they kept my legs perfectly warm. They look great under longer sweaters or flannel tops. I’m bringing a pair of dark-washed denim and a pair of grey denim just to change up my look. Don’t forget comfy pjs or loungewear.

Outerwear

• Fleece jacket
• Fleece pullover

I’ll be wearing my lightweight Columbia jacket most of the time, but I’m bringing an easy fleece pullover and fleece jacket. They are easy to pack and can provide an extra layer of warmth or be worn alone on sunnier days.

Accessories

• Blanket scarf
• Beanie
• Ear wrap
• Sunglasses
• Mittens/gloves

I love my blanket scarf from Ilymix. Unfortunately it’s sold out, but they have a lot of beautiful patterns and colors to choose from. They also have a great selection of beanies and sunglasses.

Use code erin20 for 20% of your order at Ilymix.com!

Miscellaneous Essentials

• Portable tissue pack
• Travel size sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Hand cream
• Medicines

In addition to all the usual suspects, there are some miscellaneous toiletries that need to be considered. It can be windy on the mountain, not to mention the cold air hitting your face as you ski down. A small pack of tissues stowed in a pocket is a great idea. I also remember sunscreen on the exposed area of my face because of the sun’s reflection off the snow. My favorite Josie Maran moisturizer has SPF 47 and works great under my makeup. I apply lip balm and hand cream like a crazy person. I also remember to bring a selection of over-the-counter meds in case I pick up a cold. Planes are like giant petri dishes of germs and bacteria, so I always bring a mini medicine kit any time we travel.

xo – Erin

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Headed to Vail: What’s in My Suitcase appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com.

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