PACKING UP AND HEADING OUT
What to pack and where to go this winter
P acking — it’s the stepchild of vacation planning. You can spend weeks researching destinations, fares and hotel rates, then overpack at the last minute and get slapped with checked baggage fees and overweight charges. But can you take all you need without checking a big bag? Absolutely. The first rule: edit, edit, edit. Make a list of absolute necessities — then cut it in half. Ruthlessly. And think smart. Color coordinate and bring accessories that can turn one outfit into several.
Leave soap, shampoo, conditioner, bathrobes and hairdryers at home. Most hotels supply these for free. Whether you’re heading for snow or surf, you’ll need plenty of sunscreen, but TSA confiscates large tubes and bottles, so buy it when you arrive.
When your carry-on suitcase is full and there’s still a pile of must-brings on the bed, no worries. In addition to one bag in the overhead compartment, airlines allow a large tote or backpack that can fit under the seat. Use it for your laptop, shoes and other overflow packing.
SKI AND SNOW VACATIONS
The basics for snow are an insulated ski jacket and pants, winter boots, a warm hat, lined waterproof gloves and sunglasses or goggles.
Temperatures at ski resorts vary from below zero to over 30 degrees Fahrenheit, so you’ll also need to layer clothes under your jacket: a thermal base, sweater and fleece top.
How can you pack so much bulk into your carry-on luggage? Try using space-saving vacuum bags. And wear several layers of clothing on the plane, including bulky jackets and boots.
You can rent skis, ski boots and other sports equipment at the resort. But if you’re really attached to your own equipment, ski and boot bags can do double duty for other items. Of course, with each destination, specifics will vary. Telluride, Colo., No. 1 on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of “America’s Best Ski Resorts,” is a picturesque old mining town where everything is within walking distance. So comfortable, waterproof boots with a good tread are a must. And though Telluride also earned a top spot on Traveler’s list of “The Best American Cities for Foodies,” dining out is ultra-casual. A sweater and jeans are all you’ll need.
In Alberta’s magnificent Canadian Rockies, you’ll find every winter sport from heli-skiing to dog sledding, and one uniquely Albertan experience — ice canyon walking. Pack crampons to grip the frozen terrain or rent them there. For evenings out, the look is “resort casual,” a notch or two up from your knock-around jeans.
SUN, SURF AND DESERT SANDS
Packing light for warm climates is decidedly easier. After all, how much can your bikini or board shorts weigh? In fact, these vacations are all about bathing suits — even some bars are swimup — so pack more than one.
Toss in shorts, tank tops, jeans and tees, a summer dress or slacks, sandals, sneakers and a foldable sunhat, and you’re basically good to go.
Los Cabos, Mexico, is an eco-conscious area with low-impact “snuba” diving at the spectacular coral reef in Cabo Pulmo. Equipment here can be rented.
Winter in Los Cabos is also the season for whale watching, so pack a light jacket for water excursions. In the evenings, women wear beachy cocktail dresses, while men can go native in a local guayabera.
Hawaii style runs the gamut from ultra-sophisticated eateries on Oahu to laidback upcountry life in Molokai. But do pack flipflops — or “slippers” as the locals say — to wear rain or shine. For excursions to higher elevations, like Haleakala or Mauna Kea, take a warm jacket.
If traveling light just isn’t your style, consider Palm Springs. It’s just two hours from L.A. by car, so you can bring everything your trunk will hold — even a stack of books to read poolside. Days are summery, but nights can be cool, so bring warm clothes too.
Winter is also the perfect time to hike Indian Canyons and Joshua Tree. Layer with a long-sleeve tee and hoodie for changes in weather and altitude, and bring good hiking boots.
At the end of the day, soothe your aching muscles with a spa massage. All you’ll need is your birthday suit.