Ahh, spring break is finally here.  And if you are one of the lucky people who plan a ski trip for your spring break, you are most likely counting the days.  I mean, what could be better than spending a week at Jackson Hole, Vail, Aspen, Tahoe, Whistler or any of the other amazing ski resorts in North America.  No work, endless days on the mountain, apres parties, and let’s not forget that hot Australian snowboard instructor…pretty awesome, right?   So, the last thing you want to do is spoil your trip by not being prepared! So, I’m sure this isn’t your first rodeo, but here are some tips to prepare yourself for a week of snow, sun and spring riding!

1. Lodging: Most likely, you’ve already booked your lodging, and are informed on what they offer.  But, it doesn’t hurt to call the week before you leave, and confirm your reservation.  Hotels are almost always booked, so it’s smart to cover your bases.  Know where your hotel is in relation to the town, restaurants and, of course, the mountain.  Some mountain towns have amazing transportation systems, so if you don’t need to rent a car, even better.  That’s one less thing you have to do on your vacation!
2. Lift Tickets: You may have already booked your tickets with your lodging, which is usually a great deal.  But, if you were hoping to ‘wing it’ when you got there, I would recommend doing some online research.  With the economy is such a bummer of a state, there are deals out there, including multiple day tickets, lesson/lift packages, and family packages.  Find a great deal, and it will be totally worth it.  Plus, you won’t feel guilty about eating at that yummy and fancy restaurant at the base!
3. Equipment: With the new airline restrictions, you should really weigh out whether or not you want to bring your equipment.  Although most of us have an extreme loyalty or love for our skis and/or snowboard, the resort shops have top of the line gear from the best brands including Burton, Salomon, K2, Rossignol and more.  Depending on where you are going, both SkiRentals.com and RentSkis.com have some pretty good deals.  But, they also have the potential to sell out, so book this before you go if you havent already.  And, some of them even offer delivery to your hotel, or storage at the base which means less lugging!
4. What to Bring: Packing appropriately is going to be key on your ski trip.  You do NOT want to overpack, but you have to be prepared.  You should check the weather before you go, but don’t put 100% faith on it…mountain whether can be fickle!

• Base layer: Base layer is one of the most important parts of your mountain attire.  It is the single thing that will keep your body warm on the coldest days.  It’s a piece that people often skip, but subbing in a cotton shirt will be sure to end your day early.  The baselayer pieces are made specifically to wick the sweat off your body, where a cotton shirt will soak  it all up, leaving you soaked and uncomfortable.  Orage makes awesome baselayer, and it’s also versatile.  So, you don’t have to look at it as a ’ski trip purchase’.  Orage baselayer is awesome for running and working out it too.  The Orage Ina is my favorite…and it’s cute too, so you can feel sassy at apres!  It’s midweight, so perfect for riding, hiking, running, you name it.  For your bottoms, I would recommend the Orage Yva pants.  They will wick away moisture, and have a super funky, but subtle print.  You can pair these with the Loria Base Layer Top for the full suit!
• Outerwear: You will need a good ski/snowboard jacket and pants if you plan on being out on the mountain all day.  Plus, you have to show off your style, and prove those ‘tourist’ stereotypes wrong, right?  It’s important to get a jacket and pants that fit you well, and have the right technical features to keep you warm.  The more comfortable you are, the better you will ride and the more fun you will have.   Nikita is one of my favorite brands for ’style on the hill’.  Plus, ahlivv is giving a FREE beanie with a Nikita outerwear purchase, so you can check that off your packing list at the same time.  I really love the Snowcrust Jacket because of the color wave.  You can always swap out the pants to add some funk!  The Nikita Method Shell Pants look hot with the Snowcrust, and Orange is in right now.  I would also recommend checking out Betty Rides, Roxy and The North Face for stylish, but technical gear.
• Goggles or Sunglasses: Don’t forget these…they will be important!  Sunglasses are great if you have wonderful, sunny weather.  But, in the case you are lucky enough to be there for a Spring Storm, you will want the goggs.  They will protect you from the wind, and allow you to see when visibility is low.  Check out ahlivv’s selection of Von Zipper, Electric and Dragon goggles.  Plus, if you buy Dragon goggles, you will receive a FREE wallet…and it is really sassy!  Remember when you are picking out your goggles or sunglasses…big is in!  And, they offer more coverage too.
• Swim Suit: When you come off the slopes, there is nothing you’ll want to do more than take a dip in the hot tub!  Plus, after burning calories on the mountain all day, you’ll want to show off your hot bod.  There will be many young, single and sexy people in the mountains during Spring Break, so don’t skimp on the suit!
• One Good Pair of Denim: I would limit your denim to one pair…your favorite pair.  These will be all you need for nights on the town or dinners at the base.  I recommend the Level 99 Chloe Boot fit.  They are super versatile and you will not get sick of them over the week.

Most importantly, relax and have fun!  You only have one Spring Break a year, so enjoy it! Understand your travel buds, and what they want out of the trip ahead of time to avoid frustration later.

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