Pack A Lunch!

     I know what you're gonna say. "I don't mind spending $10 on a meal when I go up to snowboard," and although that doesn't seem like that significant an amount, when you factor in the cost of transportation/gas, lift ticket, and (God help you if you're paying) rental fees, you really should make an effort to keep your costs as low as possible. That is, unless you're different from most people and have managed to find a way to still have money to burn despite the our current economic climate, in which case, burn away. But if you're like most people, and don't have money to throw away, take heed, and keep in mind many people will order a beer with their meal in which case you can add an additional $5-$10.
     Yet despite the recession and the fact that these costs are ultimately unnecessary, most people simply do not pack a lunch! It's really strange actually, because when it comes to picnics, or beach visits, people don't seem to have a problem with bringing their own grub. Perhaps there is an unspoken rule amongst slope hitters about bringing food? Well, I for one am not above it and will remain unaffected by snooty and unsubstantiated notions of it being taboo.
     Now although most resorts will have a large dispenser from which you can pour into a cup, I recommend bringing plenty of water because it's very easy to dehydrate up there due to the high altitude. Plus I will usually drink water on the way up the mountain as well as on the way down. In addition, the water they have to offer is freezing cold so if you're like me and like your water at room temperature, all the more reason to bring your own H20. I will usually even carry a regular sized bottle in my pocket simply to avoid returning all the way back down the slopes to rehydrate.
     As for lunches, keep it simple. A sandwich kept in a plastic ziploc bag if kept inside a cooler with ice will await you intact & undiminished despite sitting in your sun-beaten car. Granola bars & fruits make for good sides because you can carry them on your person and they will give you the energy needed for snowboarding, which can be quite a strenuous and calorie-burning activity.