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Are you ready to hit the slopes? Hold on! Make sure you pack following items to save yourself time and money!

Before you leave make sure you have the following items:

Chap-stick, sunscreen, moisturizer, and sunglasses: Taking care of yourself is very important, especially since you'll be battling the elements! Put a tube of chap-stick in your coat pocket before you leave your house - you'll need it on the slopes. Be sure to wear sunscreen, the white snow reflects the sun making it very easy to get burnt - and after a day on the slopes you'll definitely want some moisturizer to replenish your skin to keep yourself feeling fresh.

Small change - chances are good you will need a locker to hold your belongs during the course of the trip, bringing a bag of quarters will save you time and hassle. Be sure to bring a few small bills, especially if you are staying at a resort - you'll need the money for tipping and small purchases.

Extra socks: How ever many pairs of socks you think you need, add two more. You never know when you might get wet feet, blisters, or need an extra layer of warmth.

Plastic bags for wet clothes: Playing in the snow is great, but coming in from the snow leaves you with plenty of wet clothes. Bringing plastic bags for your wet clothes will help you keep organized and keep the rest of your belongings from getting damp.

Layers - clothes of all shapes and sizes, long-sleeve, short-sleeve, any kind of cloths: Since you can't be sure what the weather will be, bring and wear layers of clothes. That way, if the sun's shining bright you aren't roasting in your clothes or if you are getting a fresh layer of snow you aren't freezing! Remember it's better to wear too much because you can always take it off.

Vest, hat, gloves, mittens, scarf, something for your head: These are obvious for any ski trip, but make sure you bring extras - just in case something gets wet or lost. Also, layering gloves and mittens can help keep your fingers extra warm and a vest around your chest will keep you warmer than just a sweater.

Snacks: Packing snacks like granola bars or fruit snacks that are small and easily fit in a pocket is a great way to save a few bucks. Pick your favorite snack and pack a box so that you don't have to waste time and money at the food court when you could be skiing.

Spandex pants/ long johns: You'll need one or both of these to keep you at your warmest. Wearing jeans under ski pants can be uncomfortable and limit your movement. Spandex pants and long johns provide warmth and flexibility!

Extras- good things to have but that aren't completely necessary:

Book: bring a book, you might want to chill out in front of the fire or give your legs a rest during the day. A book is a great way to relax - anytime - anywhere.

Swimsuit- If you are staying a resort, bring your swimsuit! Many resorts offer hot tubs to warm you up after a long day in the winter chill.

One time use heaters: These are sold in many sport stores, they are small, one-time-use heat packets that provide warmth for a few hours. They can be expensive but they are toasty warm.

Learn more about this author, Lily E.
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