Are you planning a trip to the beautiful state of Colorado for some skiing or snowboarding? If so, you'll want to pack everything you need to make the most of your trip. The Centennial State is known for its superb skiing and winter sports, but it can also be cold, so it's essential to come prepared.
Knowing what to pack for a ski trip to Colorado starts with selecting the ideal resort. If you’re staying at a resort like Breckenridge and you forget something, no problem. There are plenty of opportunities on the resort and in town to purchase essentials, buy emergency items, or rent ski and snowboard equipment.
Clothing and Other Basics
Proper outdoor clothing should be the first thing on your packing list for skiing in Colorado. Your ski packing list should include:
- Good-quality winter jacket or shell
- Waterproof or water-resistant snow pants that will fit over a ski boot.
- Gloves or mittens
- Warm hat
- Neck gaiter
- Hand and toe warmers
- Thermal base layers for tops and bottoms
- Ski/snowboard socks
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Winter boots
Forgot something? Breck has many stores and shops in our historic town and on the resort, so you’ll have easy access to pick up anything you may have forgotten or decide you want.
In addition to your outdoor gear, your ski packing list should include warm, comfortable clothes for everyday use and après activities. You'll also want to consider having a pair of light hiking shoes or boots for walking through snow or slush.
Although you should bring prescription medications, you can get other basics like toiletries and first-aid kits in town. Finally, you'll want to stock up on snacks and drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Good snacks include energy bars, trail mix, and water or sports drinks - you'll also find convenient places for food and snacks and hot drinks across the mountain.
A cell phone is another essential item. You can download and use the My Epic app on your phone for your mobile pass, check the weather, review lift wait times, find and track friends, see interactive trail maps, and get direct access to ski patrol.
Ski Gear
Breckenridge and its mountain town have equipment rental vendors that can provide quality gear to help you avoid the hassle of bringing it on a plane.
Breck offers rentals pick up at its locations and rental equipment delivery right to your door if you stay at one of our resort properties. This is the perfect option if you want to hit the slopes immediately after you arrive. Your gear can be brought right to your room!
Along with the outdoor gear mentioned above, some essential ski items to add to your packing list for skiing in Colorado are:
- Ski or snowboard boots
- Goggles
- Ski poles and skis
- Ski gloves
- Snowboards
- Helmet
Travel Documents and Essentials
While it may seem like a no-brainer on what to pack for a ski trip to Colorado, travel documents are one of the most important and sometimes forgotten items! Make sure your ski trip checklist includes all travel documents and other essentials, such as your driver’s license, health insurance cards, travel insurance cards, extra charging cords, and all resort documents. And in case you need to find these items quickly, consider bringing a document-style wallet or accordion folder for storage.
Your Lift Access: Epic Pass or Lift Ticket Confirmation
Lift tickets or a season pass are essential for a ski trip to Colorado. Purchase the Epic Pass season pass or day pass for a limited time before the season for the best prices, or plan on purchasing a daily lift ticket. Don't forget that with the My Epic app you can use your phone as your pass for faster access!
Buying your season pass, or pre-purchasing lifts tickets online in advance has several benefits. First and foremost, it limits the time at the ticket window on the day of your trip, and can skip the lift ticket window line. Another advantage of pre-purchased lift tickets is that you'll get a lower online price than purchasing day of at the window.
Book Your Next Ski Trip to Colorado at Breckenridge
Now that you know what to pack for a ski trip to Colorado, why not make Breckenridge your next winter sports haven? Breckenridge is a fantastic destination for a ski trip to Colorado, full of thrills and unmatched views. It even has the highest chairlift in North America — the Imperial Express Super Chair. Breckenridge's five peaks, charming mountain town, and convenient location from Denver offer everything you need for a fun and memorable ski vacation.
