It’s right around the corner- winter and that means it’s time to begin planning your family ski vacation. The snow is in the forecast- and you couldn’t be happier! Pack up the kids, grab the boards and hit the slopes! In order to make the most of any of the 12 major Colorado ski vacation resorts, follow a checklist when planning and packing so you don’t miss a thing and can have the time of your lives.

To pack for the perfect family ski trip, you need to plan on having enough warm clothing, outerwear and under garments to outfit your family every day- twice a day! If skiing and Colorado snowboarding are your idea of a great time, you’ll want to be able to change into dry clothes for another trip up the mountain as often as you possibly can.

Here’s what to bring for each person:

- Skis and bindings – you can rent skis and bindings, but if you’re an enthusiast, you probably have your own. Make sure your skis are freshly waxed and the bindings are working properly. If you aren’t sure which bindings are appropriate for your level of expertise or you don’t know how to adjust your bindings properly, have an expert check them out.

- Poles’ your poles need to be adjusted according to height. If you have children coming on the trip, they may need taller poles than last year. Make sure the baskets of the poles are undamaged. Remember, the softer the snow, the larger the baskets.

- Gloves should fit snugly and be in perfect condition to protect your hands and fingers. It’s a good idea to have at least two pair of gloves per person.

- Snowboards- Switch things up and bring snowboards as well as skis for a variety of fun.

- Helmets- everyone should have-and wear-a helmet. No matter how proficient a skier you are, accidents happen and on the slopes, an accident can be fatal. Be smart-and safe Wear a helmet.

- Socks- Ski boots are made to be warm, so wear one pair of thin wool or acrylic socks. Wearing more than one pair of socks or very thick socks can cause blisters. Wool or acrylic socks will stay warmer and drier than cotton socks. Pack several pairs of socks so you always have a clean dry pair for the next run.

- Outerwear – be prepared for any type of weather. Ski jackets and pants for cold weather and fleece and long underwear for layering. Don’t wind up staying back at the lodge because the mercury took an unexpected dip or the sun came out and warmed things up. Dress in layers so you can adjust to the temperatures.

- Boots- break your boots in before your skiing vacation, even if you wore them last year. Wear your ski boots a few times before you leave so you don’t wind up with feet too sore for the slopes.

Packing carefully for your family ski vacation can make the difference between a good vacation and a great one, so make sure you have everything you need to hit the slopes time and again. Colorado ski vacations are a terrific way to share some family bonding and Colorado snow boarding puts a new twist on a favorite activity. Try both for the ultimate family vacation this winter.