What to Pack for Kicking Horse in Winter | Vagabond Lodge
Packing for Kicking Horse is easier when you think about three parts of your holiday: time on the mountain, time outdoors away from skiing and time relaxing afterwards. A few practical choices can save you from carrying too much while still being ready for changing weather.
Use this winter packing guide as a starting point, then adjust it to the forecast, the length of your stay and the activities you have booked.
Clothing for Ski Days
Bring a layering system that you can adjust through the day. Start with thermal base layers, add a warm mid-layer and finish with suitable ski outerwear. Pack ski socks that fit comfortably with your boots, plus a spare dry pair for another day.
Your ski-day essentials should include:
Ski jacket and trousers suitable for the forecast
Thermal tops and bottoms
A fleece or other insulating mid-layer
Ski socks, gloves or mittens
Helmet, goggles and a neck warmer
Sunscreen, lip balm and a water bottle
If you are renting equipment, confirm exactly what your booking includes. Ask separately about boots, poles and helmets where relevant, and allow time to get the fit right before starting your first day. Selkirk is a great place to rent this equipment.
Clothing for Snowy Outings
Pack warm winter footwear for walking outdoors, along with a hat and gloves you can use away from skiing. Think about the grip and warmth you need for the conditions rather than bringing only your usual town shoes.
For snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, check the operator’s equipment advice. You may want different layers for an active forest outing than for a cold lift ride. A small day bag gives you somewhere to carry water, snacks and an extra layer.
A Few Things for Lodge Evenings
Bring comfortable clothes for downtime and a swimsuit if you would like to use Vagabond Lodge’s hot tub or sauna. If you have space in your suitcase, bring some indoor shoes/slippers for the lodge.
A book, a charging cable and any personal essentials are usually more useful than several extra outfits. If you enjoy taking photographs, remember spare camera batteries or the charger you need for the whole trip.
Organise Bookings Before Packing the Car
Keep your accommodation confirmation, activity bookings and rental details somewhere easy to find. Save useful information on your phone so you are not relying on a signal at every stage of the journey.
Check your travel route and weather before departure. For driving in British Columbia, consult DriveBC and the province’s winter driving guidance. Prepare your vehicle for the roads you will use and allow extra travel time when conditions require it.
Tell Us What You Need in Advance
If you have dietary requirements, let Vagabond Lodge know when booking so we can discuss them before your arrival. Contact us about access requirements or any room feature that is important to your stay, too.
Once the essentials are organised, keep the rest simple. Explore our guest information and check availability for your winter visit to Kicking Horse.
