INSTRUCTOR PACKING LIST

 

Pali experiences ALL of the seasons and the weather that comes with them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"In Southern Cali? What?!"

 

We sure do! 

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From August to early October, we typically wear shorts and t-shirts during the day and throw on a jacket and pants in the evening. From mid-October to December, we layer up as it starts to get colder and snow arrives.

 

During the spring season, we experience much more consistent precipitation including rain and snow. When mid-March hits, the temperature starts to warm up and by the end of April and May, we are wearing shorts and t-shirts again.

 

 You will be wearing a staff t-shirt every day while on-site, so realistically you will be wearing your own  shirts and normal outfits on the weekends.

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Shop early! Find the deals! 

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While it’s important to be prepared, let’s face it, a lot of outdoor activity gear is really expensive, and it might not be worth it to buy a super expensive sleeping bag for our heated cabins. The outdoors should be accessible to everyone, and in order to keep personal gear costs low, here are a few ways OE staff recommends finding the deals: 

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 Starting now:

As you start thinking about what to take to Pali in January, double check the packing list. Knowing exactly what you need to get can help eliminate stress and unnecessary spending. Looking at local thrift stores for gear is a great way to find loved and broken-in boots and packs. Shopping at a family-owned business will guarantee a knowledgeable employee and an educated choice or purchase.  

 

• Ask your friends or extended family! Perhaps you’ll learn that a friend has a hobby you didn’t know about, or that your great-uncle has an incredible retro fleece in storage.

 

• Scout local yard sales or thrift stores. Many times, there is a wealth of gear to be found for very cheap just by visiting yard or garage sales.

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Arriving at Pali:
Forgot some gear? No problem. Stop at Walmart down the mountain, stop by a local thrift store in Running Springs, or make a list for your next trip down the 330. There's an REI about 30 minutes away in Rancho Cucamonga! 

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Also! Ask your new friends here - it's the perfect conversation starter! Most staff at Pali are well-equipped for a variety of outdoor activities and people will be happy to help you find extra gear. 

  

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General Work Clothing

• Base layers - we love this helpful article for winter layering

• Breathable "Adventure Ready" pants or leggings

• Waterproof rain pants or quick-dry pants - we love Frogg Toggs! (affordable and light!)

• Waterproof/windproof jacket

• Fleece/down/winter jackets

• Breathable long-sleeve shirts

• Breathable short-sleeve shirts

• Shorts for warmer weather (Spring will come!)

• LOTS of warm wool socks. Checkout Darn Tough & SmartWool brands

• Running shoes (trail running shoes are great!) and/or hiking boots

• Multiple pairs of lined gloves, winter hats, and baseball caps

• Clothing for your time off 

 

Additional Clothing for Winter/Spring Season

• Waterproof/insulated boots -- make sure they’re actually waterproof!

• Tall rain boots! Pro-tip - wear long ski socks with them and your feet will always stay warm and dry.

• Waterproof gloves

• Snow Pants*

• Ski goggles* (the wind can hurt!) 

• Ponchos* 

 

Outdoor Gear and Sports Equipment

• A good daypack that fits comfortably. 

• Rain cover for your backpack*

• Headlamp / Flashlight

• Water resistant watch - you won't be able to use your phone while with students

• Sunglasses

• Hats

• Recreational equipment for any outdoor activities you like to do* (You'll have space in your Pali House garage to store items)

  • Paddle Board

  • Climbing Gear

  • Camping Gear

  • Backpacking Gear

  • Beach Gear

  • Mountain/Road Bikes

  • Ski's & Snowboards

  • Etc...you get the jist!

 

Bedding

Pali provides you with beds in a house but does not provide bedding. Bring whatever will make you the most comfortable when you're there. When in a cabin at Pali, many people choose to sleep in easy to transport sleeping bags and some enjoy having a fitted sheet over the camp mattress. Don't forget a pillow!

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• Sleeping bag (our cabins are heated so the degree rating is up to you)

• Twin sized sheets for your bed at home

• Pillow(s)

• Mattress Pad*

• Blanket*

• Comforter*

 

Misc

You will live in staff housing off-site and will be there on the weekends and some weekdays if you aren't assigned to be in cabin. Bring things to make it feel like home such as art, posters, plants, flags, mugs, letters, books, hammock, etc. Your room will be your own space for the season. 

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• Hangers

• Travel mug*

• Water bottle - Nalgenes are light and easy to to carry around

• Headphones*

• Speaker*

• Slippers*

• Tupperware* - for leftovers at home!

• Musical instruments (if you play)*

• Car*

  • Cars are the main form of transportation, but if you do not have one or do not want to bring yours, DO NOT FEAR. There will be many people with cars who will be willing to carpool with you to and from work! (Our houses are a quick 5-10 minute drive off Pali Campus) If you have a car and are coming for the spring season, please bring tire chains as you will need them to navigate on the snowy and icy roads. 

*Optional, but HIGHLY recommended