Xplorie’s Top 5 Winter Vacation Essentials
October 25, 2022
The crisp feeling of fall is in the air, and that winter vacation you’ve been dreaming of is just around the corner. If your vacation ideas include a cold weather destination, snowflakes falling, cozy fireplaces, steamy hot tubs, and outdoor adventures in the elements – you need to be prepared.
We love a snow-filled winter vacation and as the industry experts on the best places to stay and play for free, in the best destinations across the USA, we know that being prepared always starts with the right packing list. Here are our top 5 winter vacation essentials to stay warm, stylish, sane, and stress-free both on and off the slopes this winter. If you’re trading snowflakes for sandy beaches, we’ve got you covered too!
Warm Winter Clothing & Cold Weather Gear
The key to having a happy winter vacation is staying toasty and warm, leaving no gaps for a winter chill to seep in! A snug-fitting second skin of thermals is essential to retain body warmth in cold winter weather and is easy to slip under your ski gear, or jeans for a night out. A puffy down vest is perfect over a long sleeve for warmer winter days, but you’ll need an insulated, waterproof down jacket for wintery conditions, or to pair with your ski gear for the slopes. How much you pack of course depends on how you’re traveling. If you’re road-tripping and space is not limited, throw in some chunky sweaters perfect for layering and lounging, and easy to dress up for aprés ski, or down for fireside romance.
Cold feet possibly take first place in the comfortability factor of a winter vacation. A good pair of winter boots don’t need to break the budget – for a quick trip to alpine destinations, hiking boots may even work if they are waterproof and insulated, have a good grip for icy conditions, and are high top to keep the snow out! If you can spend the extra dollars, a good pair of winter boots are worth the investment – as are more than enough pairs of winter, woolen socks!
Accessorize!
With a winter chill in the air, you won’t be leaving home without a beanie, scarf, and gloves. Take it from the experts – jacket hoods are not enough in the snow and bare fingers are unbearable! Your head is where your body loses all its heat and nothing beats a cozy heat-retaining beanie under your ski helmet while enjoying après ski round an outdoor firepit, or even snug on the sofa. While warmth and comfort take top priority over style on a winter vacation, accessories are both practical and stylish, and a fun way to add a little winter cheer to your outfit.
Self-Care On & Off the Slopes
Whether it’s beautiful bluebird days or freezing wintery snow storms dumping fresh powder, spending all day adventuring outside in the elements takes its toll and leaves many outdoor enthusiasts, skiers, and snowboarders red-faced, goggle-tanned, and chapped. Sunscreen, lip balm, and lots of moisturizer is essential to protect your skin from the winter elements.
Adhesive heat packs and hand warmers are wonderful to put in your gloves, pockets, and boots (or stick inside your layers!), and don’t forget a water bottle and thermos flask. The higher the elevation, the more water is required to stay hydrated. Speaking of self-care – don’t forget your swimwear for rejuvenating alpine spa days and hot tub soaks at home.
Winter Gear
Every pro guide to traveling with winter sports gear will tell you to think outside the box, reduce your stress levels and rent your gear locally. If you’re driving to your destination, you can easily throw it all in the trunk. If you’re flying – be prepared for hefty baggage fees and the chance of your gear not arriving for your first day early morning run!
For a hassle-free and happy ski vacation, consider renting your gear from a local ski shop – reserve your equipment online, have it delivered directly to your vacation rental, and take the hassle out of traveling with bulky winter gear.
- Christy Sports in Breckenridge & Winter Park, CO
- Ski Butlers in Keystone, CO
- Epic Mountain Sports in Winter Park, CO
- 4 Seasons Recreation in Bend & Sunriver, OR
- Ski Butlers in Park City, Deer Valley & Canyons Village, UT
- Christy Sports in Salt Lake City, UT
Our Xplorie partners are ski industry experts with top notch gear, outstanding customer service, and ski packages for every skill level – free with Xplorie.
Xplorie Activities
Don’t leave home without your Xplorie tickets for your winter gear, and the best activities and attractions in our favorite winter destinations in the USA … for FREE!
Browse our Xplorie travel blog for winter vacation ideas and inspiration, find the perfect destination to suit your travel style, pick your dream vacation home, and connect with our Xplorie vacation specialists to plan your free activities, complimentary tickets to your destinations’ top attractions, and winter tours that will no doubt be the envy of each and every family member, friend, and follower!
