Ski trip GetExperience

Bring your passport or ID as usual, but check your travel insurance policy specifically — 'winter sports' or 'skiing/snowboarding' coverage is often a separate add-on, not included by default, and a resort clinic bill without it adds up fast.

Layers beat a single heavy coat: a moisture-wicking base layer keeps sweat from turning cold against your skin, a mid layer traps heat, and a waterproof, insulated outer shell keeps snow and wind out. Thick, non-cotton socks matter as much as the jacket — cotton stays wet and cold once your boots warm up.

Cold weather drains batteries much faster than room temperature does, so a phone that reads 40% at the lodge can die on the lift. Keep it in an inner pocket against your body when you're not using it, and carry a power bank as backup.

Snow reflects UV back up at you on top of what comes down, so sunburn happens even on overcast days at altitude — high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm matter more here than they would on a beach. New or rented boots are a common source of blisters; a bit of moleskin or tape in your pocket beats limping through day two.

A helmet is standard at most resorts now, whether you own one or rent it at the counter. Disposable hand and toe warmers earn their space on a genuinely cold day, and a separate bag for wet gear at the end of the day keeps everything else in your bag dry.