Safety and Sanitation: Checklist for Winter Cabin Safety

cabin with snow on the roofRenting a cabin this winter? The experience can be unforgettable in a positive way for some folks, but unforgettable in a bad way for others. The difference often comes down to preparation. While a cabin in the middle of the woods can often indicate beautiful scenery, great skiing, and bonding between friends and family, individuals who are not prepared can have negative experiences. Staying in a cabin usually entails bringing along many of your own essentials. Here is a list of must-haves for your winter cabin trip, so you don’t get stuck driving an extra 20 miles for toiletries.

Clothing: Packing the right clothes is important for the various activities on the agenda. When packing, consider layering for extra warmth. Standard clothing options include pants, sweaters, sweatpants, shirts, warm socks, slippers, (thermal) underwear, gloves, hats, scarves, coats, waterproof boots, snow pants, and sunglasses.

Food: Prepare a tentative menu ahead of time based on the cooking equipment available at the cabin. In addition to food supplies, take condiments, cooking oil/butter, ice, bottled water, and easy-to-make pre-packaged food, in case of weather issues.

Kitchen Items: Cabin owners may leave behind some pots and utensils, but if you want to use your own supplies, you’ll need to come prepared. Sample items include utensils, knives, spoons/spatulas, plates/bowls/cups, pots and pans, storage containers, foil or plastic wrap, a cooler, a meat thermometer, napkins, coal or wood for the barbeque, and dish soap.

Toiletries: Private cabins generally have a full bathroom that can be used for cleaning up after a long day on the slopes. Make sure to pack these must have items: toilet paper, hygiene products, towels, shampoo and conditioner, a comb, shaving cream and razor, a hair dryer, hand soap, lotion, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrush, mouthwash, floss, medications, and sunscreen.

In addition to packing bedding items and games, you shouldn’t forget emergency items. These items include cell phones, radios, firewood and matches, flashlights, snow shovels, maps, compasses, utility knives, scissors, first aid kits, and hand sanitizers. An electric heater from EquipSupply.com is also a great choice, in case of power outages.

When packing, keep the length of your stay in mind, to secure the appropriate amount of supplies. Consider the number of people staying in the cabin, when determining how much food to take.