Are you a parent or carer who is planning your first ski holiday with the kids? It’s an exciting adventure, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming—especially if you’re new to the slopes yourself.

From choosing the right gear to planning activities that will keep everyone smiling, there’s a lot to think about. 

But don’t worry, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know in this guide to make your family’s first ski trip a success.

Whether you’re hitting the snow for a weekend or a week, these tips will help you prepare for a fun, safe, and memorable experience.

How to Plan for Your First Ski Trip

1. Choose a Family-Friendly Resort

Not all ski resorts are created equal when it comes to family-friendliness. Look for resorts that offer beginner slopes, dedicated kids’ areas, and plenty of non-skiing activities. Some resorts even have ski schools specifically for children, with lessons designed to make learning fun and easy.

2. Book Ski Lessons

Skiing can be tricky to learn, especially for little ones. Booking lessons with a professional instructor ensures your kids get the guidance they need in a safe environment. Plus, it gives parents some time to explore the slopes on their own while the kids are learning the basics.

3. Plan for Downtime

Skiing is physically demanding, especially for kids who aren’t used to the cold or the altitude – plus those who have traveled internationally to get to their first ski vacation are dealing with jetlag and a new country to explore! Plan for plenty of breaks, and have some non-skiing activities in mind for when everyone needs a rest. Many resorts offer fun options like snow tubing, ice skating, or simply building snowmen, which can be just as memorable as time spent on the slopes. 

4. Pack Plenty of Snacks

Skiing burns a lot of energy, and hungry kids are cranky kids. Pack easy-to-eat, high-energy snacks like granola bars, fruit, and nuts to keep everyone fueled throughout the day. A thermos of hot chocolate can also be a great treat during breaks.

Essential Ski Gear: What You Need and Why

Choosing the right gear for your first family ski trip isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety and enjoyment too. 

Properly fitting clothing and equipment ensure that your kids stay warm, dry, and protected, allowing them to focus on having fun and learning new skills. The right gear also makes it easier for them to build confidence on the slopes, turning what could be a challenging experience into a positive and rewarding one.

1. Base Layers: The Foundation of Warmth

• What to Pack: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms made of merino wool or synthetic materials.

Base layers help regulate body temperature by keeping sweat away from the skin, ensuring your kids stay warm and dry. This is especially crucial in cold weather, as wet skin can quickly lead to chills.

2. Mid Layers: Insulation for Added Warmth

• What to Pack: Fleece jackets or wool sweaters that provide warmth without being bulky.

Mid layers trap heat, adding an extra level of insulation. They’re essential for keeping your kids warm in freezing temperatures, and they’re easy to adjust if the weather changes throughout the day.

3. Ski Jackets and Pants: The Outer Layer of Protection

• What to Pack: Waterproof, insulated ski jackets and pants designed for winter sports.

The outer layer protects against wind, snow, and moisture, keeping your kids dry and comfortable. Features like adjustable hoods, snow skirts, and reinforced knees can make a big difference in both comfort and durability.

4. Ski Socks: Comfort for the Feet

• What to Pack: High-quality, moisture-wicking ski socks that are not too thick.

Proper ski socks prevent blisters and keep feet warm without adding too much bulk, which is key for both comfort and performance.

5. Gloves or Mittens: Keep Little Hands Warm

• What to Pack: Waterproof gloves or mittens with insulation.

Cold hands can quickly ruin a day on the slopes. Mittens are generally warmer for younger children, while older kids might prefer gloves for more dexterity.

6. Helmets: Safety First

• What to Pack: Properly fitted ski helmets.

A helmet is essential for protecting against head injuries, which can happen even on beginner slopes. Make sure it fits snugly and is always worn when skiing.

 MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) helmets will provide extra protection. Rotational motion is a common cause of concussions and more severe brain injury in oblique hits to the head. The MIPS system consists of a low friction layer that is mounted inside the helmet. In a crash, the low friction layer is designed to move slightly inside the helmet in order to help redirect forces away from the head. 

If you’re venturing overseas for your family ski holiday, you might want to rent these from the ski resort to save on extra baggage charges. 

7. Goggles: Clear Vision and Eye Protection

• What to Pack: Ski goggles with UV protection and anti-fog lenses.

Goggles protect your child’s eyes from snow glare, wind, and UV rays, ensuring they can see clearly in all weather conditions. Anti-fog lenses are a must to prevent frustrating visibility issues.

8. Beanies, Scarves & Warmers: Extra Warmth for the Face and Neck

• What to Pack: Beanies, Scarves and warmers

These items provide extra warmth and protection for exposed skin on the face and neck, which are particularly vulnerable to the cold and wind.

9. Ski Boots: The Anchor of Control

• What to Pack: Properly fitted ski boots, ideally rented for your first trip.

Boots are crucial for control and stability on the slopes. Ill-fitting boots can cause discomfort and make it harder for kids to learn proper skiing techniques, so renting ensures you get the right size. 

10. Skis and Poles: Sized Right for Beginners

• What to Pack: Skis and poles that are appropriate for your child’s height, weight, and skill level.

The right size and type of skis help beginners learn more easily and safely. Shorter, more flexible skis are typically better for kids just starting out, making it easier for them to control their movements.

Your first family ski trip is an opportunity to create lasting memories and introduce your kids to the joys of winter sports. 

By planning ahead, choosing the right gear, and focusing on making the experience enjoyable for everyone, you can ensure that your time on the slopes is a success. Remember, it’s not just about skiing—it’s about spending quality time together, embracing the adventure, and having fun in the snow!

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Click here for my tips on visiting Lake Mountain with kids, Mt Buller with kids and Mt Baw Baw with kids

Click here for the best places to ski, skate and snow play in Melbourne & surrounds

Click here for the Top 5 Places to go Ice Skating in Melbourne with Family and Friends

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