10 Essential items to pack for your Steamboat ski trip

We'll help you get packed

If you are anything like me, the most daunting part about going on vacation is making sure you don’t forget any crucial items. So here’s some advice from someone who lives in a ski town and knows a thing or two about what you’ll really need on (and off) the slopes.

1. Helmet. I know what you are thinking, you ski/snowboard slow and cautiously. Have you ever been hit by someone lowering the bar on the lift without warning? Or clocked upside the head by someone carrying skis at the base area? Even off the slopes, my helmet has saved me dozens of times!

2. Ear plugs. Because there is nothing worse than missing a powder morning because you overslept after tossing and turning most the night from a snoring roommate. Trust me on this.

Wool socks are cool now

3. Wool socks. A few good pair of good socks are essential for comfort and warmth inside your ski or snowboard boots. As a kid I thought socks were the world’s most boring gift, but ask me know and I’ll tell you that I love receiving a good pair of merino wool socks like Point6 socks (based here in Steamboat). Why wool? It keeps you warm while wicking moisture away from the skin.

4. Sunblock and lip balm. You may think you are used to being in the sun, but are you used to it at altitude? Don’t take anything for granted, lather up all of your exposed skin before you leave your house. Confused about what product to buy? Make sure whatever you buy protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. Plus you don’t want raccoon eyes do you?

F.M. Light western wear in Steamboat since 1905 - they must be doing something right!

5. Cowboy boots. You can leave the cowboy hat at home, unless of course you like to be noticed be everyone at the bar. Cowboy boots make a more subtle statement, “I can live in the city and feel at home in Steamboat Springs. Yes, of course I bought these at F.M. Light a few years back!” Just be careful when you walk on snow and ice - take small deliberate steps.

6. Bikini/swim shorts. Naturally you will want to partake in a hot soak. Either in the hot tub, or in one of the local natural hot springs soothe those overworked muscles and relax at the end of the day. Please leave the speedo at home.

Forget the cotton, go for wool

7. Layers (base layers, mid-layer, waterproof top layer). First and foremost, NO COTTON! Even as an underlayer, cotton is so 1985 Better off Dead (the movie). Choose wool or synthetic (capilene, polyester blends), fleece or primaloft. If you get really cold you may consider a down layer. I don’t ski in down, but it’s nice to wear around town in the evenings.

8. Cell phone. leave the radios at home (unless you like listening to other families about where to meet for lunch). If you want to keep in touch with your group or family texting is the way to go. It’s less intrusive for those sharing the gondola or the lift with you.

There are at least 101 uses for duct tape!

9. Duct tape. If you watched Macgyver you know how handy duct tape can be. If you get a tear in your ski jacket or pants, it’s a handy waterproof patch kit. I’ve even used it to repair cables and leashes on my telemark bindings. Wrap some of it around your ski pole and people will think you are a local!

10. Kids. Don’t forget the kids! Every year Steamboat is named the #1 ski resort for kids by SKI Magazine. From the top notch ski school to kid oriented events and activities, Steamboat is a great place for the whole family. Don’t forget, for every paying adult, one kid skis FREE!