Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month: How to Pack Your Skis and Snowboards in the Car and Great Places to Ski in Illinois and Wisconsin

Jan 5, 2023

It’s “Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month” and today we’re highlighting some great places in Illinois and neighboring cities that are just a short road trip away! And we’re also covering some convenient ways to transport your winter sports gear in your car, truck, or SUV.

How to Efficiently Store and Pack for a Winter Sports Road Trip

Have some tarps, waterproof blankets, or other protective barriers to keep your vehicle’s interior dry and free of slush, snow, and debris when you pack your snowboarding or skiing gear into the car.
Keep a snowbrush on hand to dust off your boots, gear, and other accessories before you pack them into your vehicle.
Packing a stack of absorbent towels on hand for melted snow and ice, and drying off any gear you’re changing out of.
Garbage bags or other waterproof totes and plastic bins can keep your wet clothes or wet towels off of vehicle upholstery.
Store your skis or snowboard on a roof rack on top of your vehicle or a hitch-mounted ski rack. Alternatively, a cargo box can be a great way to transport your skis or snowboarding gear, and will keep them free of muck, grime, salt, and road spray unlike a roof rack.

Great Gear for Transporting Skis and Snowboards

The Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack, Large

This rack can hold 6 pair of skis or 4 snowboards, and weighs about 14lbs. It’s got added roof clearance for skis with tall bindings, and is easy to open and close with an oversized push button. Best of all, it’s under $400.

The Thule Force XT L Roof Box

With 450 liters of cargo capacity, and 6 feet 3 inches in length, this roof rack is great for group outings! It can hold 5 to 7 pairs of skis, and 3 to 5 snowboards, depending on their size. It’s also designed for everyday use, making it easy for all-season travel.

The Pelican BX85 Cargo Case, Large Saddle Case

This is a great cargo accessory choice for storing your clothing, gear, and even camping supplies like food.

Great Places for Winter Sports Adventures

Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports Ski School in Lisle, Illinois

With ski areas open to all ages and skill levels, Four Lakes Alpine has been operating for over 60 seasons and is home to some of the top downhill skiing and snowboarding trails in the area. It’s got gorgeous panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains, too! You can’t beat it as a great winter vacation destination.

Villa Olivia in Bartlett, Illinois

No matter if you’re into skiing or snowboarding, there’s something exciting in store for you at Villa Olivia! Sign up for some of the guided classes and learn something new, or head right to the lift if you’re ready to rock! Passes are available for regular visits, too. Check the website for regular updates on weather conditions, but with state of the art snow-making things should be ski-ready at a moments notice even if Mother Nature won’t cooperate.

Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois

This ski resort has got it all! Whether you’re looking for prime winter sports activities or you prefer watching them in 4K high definition on the big screen at a sports bar, there’s lots to do at Chestnut MMountain Resort. Plus, it’s even got a great indoor pool and hot tub for warming up with some hot cocoa after a day on the slopes. There are also great restaurants for dining in and refueling between your downhill runs! It’s family friendly, but also makes a great getaway for friends or couples looking for a bit of respite.

More Great Downhill Skiing and Winter Sports Destinations

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month: How to Pack Your Skis and Snowboards in the Car and Great Places to Ski in Illinois and Wisconsin