Before You Go
Most of what makes a trip hard gets decided before you leave the house. What you packed, where you’re going to park, whether anybody warned you about the altitude, whether the thing you booked is actually going to work with a four year old in tow. This is where I put all of that: gear, packing lists, altitude, weather, parking, and the rest of the logistics that can turn a mountain vacation into a full-time job.
A lot of it is specific to Breckenridge and Summit County, because that’s where I live and where I’ve made most of my mistakes. The reasoning behind it should hold up wherever you’re headed.
Before You Book Anything…
The free family camping packing list is the one I actually use while I load the car. It covers shelter, layers, first aid, kid gear, and the kitchen stuff that’s easiest to forget.
No strings, just adventure.

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Gear Rentals: How to Rent for Less
Where to Rent for Less Don’t just walk into the shop nearest the lift. You will often pay a “convenience tax” of 30% or more. Here are the specific shops we locals recommend to friends because they have fair prices, good gear, and solid online booking discounts. This post contains affiliate links, which means I…
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Free & Cheap Parking at Breckenridge Ski Resort
Let’s talk about the #1 pain point in Breckenridge: Parking. It’s the fastest way to kill your vacation value, and frankly, it’s a confusing, expensive nightmare designed to trap the unprepared. You see the crisp air, the insane views… and then a $45 parking bill for a day of skiing. Here is your official guide…
