Planning a hilly retreat to escape the hectic city life and unwind amidst the picturesque surroundings? Weekend mountain getaways can help you escape for urban life, but they require planning when it comes to packing right. The weather is usually much cooler in the mountains than it is at lower altitudes. Mountain activities typically also require special gear and clothing. Here are some packing tips and a list of must haves for your next vacation to the hills.
STEP 1
Make a list of the activities that you plan to do on your mountain getaway. Include any activities that require specific gear, such as hiking or skiing, along with those requiring special outfits and shoes, such as a dinner out in a mountain hamlet.
STEP 2
Check the current weather forecast in the area that you're traveling to and pack appropriate clothing for the conditions. Bring warm winter clothing for winter trips, such as a snowsuit, jackets, sweaters, gloves, hats and scarves. In warmer seasons, plan your clothing selection so that you can dress in layers. Layering examples include shorts, long pants, T-shirts, light sweaters and light jackets. Although the days in the mountains can get quite warm, nights and mornings are often cold. Bring at least three pairs of socks and under clothing, regardless of the season.
STEP 3
Pack two pairs of shoes, not including the ones that you will be wearing while traveling to the mountains. Select shoes appropriate to your activity, such as hiking boots for hiking, tennis shoes for day wear or dress shoes for evening activities. Regardless of your activity plans, you will likely spend more time walking on a mountain trip. Bring extra shoelaces, in case yours break and moleskin for blisters, especially if you'll be hiking.
STEP 4
Avoid overpacking. Unless you're going on a high-country adventure that requires special gear, pack two main outfits for daily wear and one evening outfit for a two- or three-day trip to the mountains.
STEP 5
Roll your clothing instead of folding it. Rolled clothing takes up less space in your luggage and rolled clothing is less prone to wrinkling. Knit fabrics resist wrinkles, making them a suitable choice for travel.
STEP 6
Pack liquids, such as hair and skin care items, in a sealed plastic bag. As you travel to the mountains, altitude changes can cause containers to leak. A plastic bag protects the other items in your suitcase if leakage does occur. Regardless of the season, include sunscreen and sunglasses with your personal items.
STEP 7
Bring extras of any prescription medications. Pack a copy of your prescriptions for medications and prescription glasses or contacts. Bad weather in the mountains can sometimes prolong a short weekend trip, so it's advisable to be prepared.
STEP 8
Inspect special activity gear before you pack. For example, make sure that ski bindings are in good condition or check camping stoves and gear at home. Package specialty gear in appropriate bags. Skis travel more safely in a ski bag, for example. If traveling by plane, check for any baggage restrictions or packing rules with the airline and airport security.
Sponsored links
Comments
0 comment