I missed the mountains. For me, nothing truly compares to those majestic peaks, and that’s how it’s always been. From dozens of family road trips out west as a kid to spending a summer in Vail to my first experience hitting the Rocky Mountain slopes, I feel at home in the high altitude. It had been too long, so T and I flew out to Colorado with our ski and snowboard gear for a quick two days of downhill. We’re trying to make our rounds and so far visited Winter Park, Copper Mountain and Breckenridge for their winter activities. All these little towns have unique offerings, but alas, we find what to pack for a Colorado ski trip remains nearly the same for all.
What To Pack For A Colorado Ski Trip
While getting ready to fill our suitcases for Breckenridge, I felt the typical pressure to pack smart. We were already hauling our gear – bulky and heavy – so we didn’t want a ton of extra baggage. Literally. We needed to keep things minimal and share a bag if possible. I’m happy to report the mission was a success and at the end of the trip, we felt we even had excess. Obviously the biggest challenge of a winter vacation is the bulk. Thick sweaters, heavy footwear, coats, warm accessories. It adds up quick. But having done this type of packing so often, I feel like I could do it in my sleep. Here’s a rundown of what we had in our (shared!) suitcase.
Packing The Winter Essentials
The gear
Gear isn’t something we buy often. Our snowboards, skis, coats, pants, goggles, etc are investments we buy with the intention of wearing for many years. So, my current setup is a few years old already. I’m pretty loyal to Burton as I’ve worn the brand since I first started snowboarding. If I were shopping for a new setup, here are a few pieces I’d consider.
Cozy sweaters
To cuddle up by the fire après skiing or to wear to dinner with denim and boots, warm sweaters are a must. Once the sun goes down in the mountains, it can get real cold, real fast. So, even if they have a bit of bulk, don’t shy away from packing your warmest options.
Light layers
If you read this post, you know I’m a huge fan of lightweight turtlenecks. I unintentionally got addicted after buying one for $10 at H&M a few years back. Ever since, that section of my closet keeps growing. They’re so versatile for layering. After we warmed up by the fire and wanted to head out for a drink in Breckenridge, I’d throw one of these on underneath my sweater. Then all I needed was a mid-weight shacket I had worn on the plane. Warm and cozy without sacrificing precious suitcase real estate.
Comfortable boots
If your plans are to be on the slopes all day, I think you can get by with one pair of boots for the rest of the trip. Pack something you’re comfortable walking in and somewhat winter friendly. Your feet are tired and the last thing you need are uncomfortable shoes to walk to dinner. My choice was a pair of Chelsea boots I’ve worn all season. They are easy to throw on with wool socks, go with everything and were even comfortable in the airport and on the plane. I would also recommend any Sorel boots. The bonus being most are waterproof and insulated, making them perfect for winter outings.
A not-so-bulky jacket
Even though faux fur in the mountains seems extremely appropriate, those coats are just to bulky to pack. I hesitantly left mine at home, but I’m so glad I didn’t mess with the bulk. The mid-weight jacket I packed ended up being perfect on top of my warm sweaters & light layers. It was easy to take on and off in the plane and on our drive to and from Denver. And I had my snowboarding coat for the really cold evening we took a walk. Shackets are still very hard to come by (more details on mine here), but these are some great alternatives.
Packing Tips For A Winter Ski Trip
Bring only what you need
I’m a huge “what if” packer. “What if” we do this instead. “What if” I don’t feel like wearing this. Trust me, it’s ok to have extras, but not at the cost of space. Decide what will take up the most room and minimize from there. Staying 3 nights? Pack 3 sweaters. Try to keep footwear to a minimum and rewear basics if you can.
Utilize extra space in your gear bag
If you’re taking your own gear, you have bonus room in that gear bag! We packed all of our ski coats, pants, boots, etc along with our base layers and hats. I think T actually added an extra lightweight jacket in his, too. You’re taking it, so you might as well get all the bang for your buck. We love the Dakine travel bags – mine for a snowboard, his for skis.
What We Enjoyed Most About Breckenridge
Breck is a busy town. For good reason. Not only is the ski mountain impressive – 5 different peaks to explore – but the actual town is quite attractive. Exactly how you’d picture a ski town. Cute shops, lit trees, breweries with outdoor fireplaces, snowy sidewalks. This combination, the mountain and the town, is definitely what we loved most. There are three runs that actually take you right into town, so anything après is waiting right there for you. The downside being the hustle and bustle. Even with less people allowed on the mountain every day and occupancy-controlled restaurants, we were surprised at the amount of people.
Regardless, we would recommend a Breckenridge ski trip to anyone interested. Such a fun place to explore on and off the mountain.
Have you ever done a Colorado ski trip?
xoxo. B
