Skiing and snowboarding are perfect examples of activities that call for a well-stocked go-bag. You can study all the weather reports on the web and still not know exactly when you’ll wake up to hear your favorite mountain has been freshly blanketed in a layer of soft, virgin powder.
My go-bag has the usual Gore-Tex winter clothing. In addition to jackets, pants and skin-tight base layers, I’ve added ibuprofen to help stave off sore muscles. (Insert standard check with your doctor before taking any medicine disclaimer.) I also pack extra socks in case I step in a puddle in the parking lot before putting my boots on. If I think of it before I jet out the door, I’ll toss in a banana to eat in the lot — it provides a quick dose of potassium to keep the horrors of a leg cramp from ruining a run.
Your pack may vary, but get it ready. Your friends don’t have time to wait for you gather your gear when they’re sitting outside your house at 4 a.m., engine running, eager to make first chair at the mountain.
