Bless the car bar.

Tailgating with your sports tribe before a sporting event is a favorite past-time. But what about après-ski in the same casual, laid-back, open-air setting? 

Many people prefer to skip resort crowds. Others like to avoid resort prices. So, we have a solution for socializing and sharing a drink or two with friends in a stress-free,  relaxing atmosphere. Keep a mini bar in your car . . . the Car Bar. It's an excellent way of connecting with your alpine tribe.

Let's talk about building a proper car bar. Here's what we think makes up a great car bar.

1. Essentials for car bars:

• Your choice of alcohol
• Other drinks for those who are not into imbibing alcohol
• Thermos or flask to keep drinks hot
• Insulated cooler or box to keep drinks cold
• Bottle opener and corkscrew
• Something to drink from . . . cups, mugs, shot glasses, etc.
• Trash bags
• Storage for the car bar: the more style and ingenuity, the better. We've seen everything from picnic baskets to milk crates to Safeway shopping baskets (we don't advocate stealing these). We'd love to see yours if you have pictures.

2. Comfort additions:

• Hand and feet warmers if you and your friends don't want to keep wearing heavy boots and thick gloves
• Blankets or a portable heater to stay warm if you're hanging out with friends for a while
• A small, collapsible table to make it easier to mix drinks and offer choices to your friends
• Folding camp chairs

We'll talk a lot more about car bars later, particularly about who has the best storage ideas with the most style. In the meantime, we'd love to hear your thoughts about favorite ingredients and interesting recipes. 

Of course, always follow all applicable laws. Drink responsibly and look out for each other. And always bless the car bar.

Cheers!