Judging by the lift-lines, most of you probably head to the ski resorts during the holiday season. So, I have compiled several holiday specific checklists so you don't forget the small things that will make your trip stress-free and memorable.
Gifts
- If you wrap them pack them. Otherwise be prepared for airport security to ruin the surprise when he opens little Jimmy’s new Playstation in the middle of airport security.
- If you don’t want to risk packing valuables ship them to your destination early – just make sure to get insurance and speak to a live person at your lodging and request that the package be placed INSIDE your room/condo (get the name of the person you speak to on the phone in case there are any problems).
- Don’t forget the greeting card! I suggest buying them at home. Sometimes the local offerings can be slim, outdated, or just a little odd:
- Unless you are visiting Aspen or another mountain shopping mecca, plan early and buy gifts at home.
Don’t always rely on the town to have the best gifts unless you are looking for stocking stuffers or are looking for something to commemorate the trip (town branded hats and funny t-shirts tend to be pretty popular). Plus, the same items you buy at altitude tend to be pricier than at sea level. - If you buy gifts online and plan to have them shipped to your hotel or condo, try to confirm the delivery date. There is nothing worse than not getting the item on time, and even worse when it arrives a week after you have left and you have to coordinate it's way home (once you hunt down who signed for it). Also keep in mind, weather delays do occur - something kids don't really appreciate hearing Christmas morning. If you do decide to ship gifts and they are arriving early, make sure to speak to a live person at your condo or hotel in order to coordinate their placement inside your place.
- If you do plan to do some holiday shopping in town, research town store hours online so you know what time you have to be off the mountain. You might have to come down early to have enough time for browsing.
- Pack a collapsable extra bag for checking that everyone can put their new gifts in. It’s likely that their original suitcases are already filled to the brim.
More Checklists:
