Skiing is a great sport that everyone should try at least once in their lives, and there’s no better way to do it than with family. Of course, if you want your entire group to get the most out of your trip down the slopes, there are a few things to bear in mind. We’ve put together this short guide to help you plan the perfect family ski trip.
Choosing the Right Resort
Perhaps the most important decision you need to make is which resort you’ll visit. When choosing your resort, you’ll want accommodation options relatively close to the slopes, as this can drastically reduce your commute and means you get more time to enjoy yourselves.
You may also want to pick options with child-friendly amenities, as this can help keep the kids occupied when they’re not in the mood to ski. Fortunately, there are many suitable resorts for family ski holidays, such as Avoriaz, Zell Am See, Flaine, and Tignes. Each option has a wealth of family-friendly activities and amenities, so look around and find what works best for your group.
Packing the Essentials
Now you’ve decided where you’re going, you need to know what to wear. To battle the snowy climate, we recommend warm, waterproof clothing, using lots of layers. Equipment you should definitely take includes gloves, hats, and goggles, since most other pieces can be rented once you’re there.
Finally, you must bring sun cream and sunglasses to protect your children’s sensitive skin from the sun’s rays. These are reflected by the snow and can cause sunburn and skin damage after long periods of exposure.
Preparing for the Slopes
If members of your group haven’t been skiing before, it’s a good idea to book lessons in advance. These can be quite popular, especially during the school holidays, and leaving doing so until the last minute might mean there are no slots left. Many resorts also have kids-only options or nursery slopes, which provide smaller, gentle declines where your children can practice their skills in a safe environment.
It’s also worth remembering that skiing is a sport, so you need to take breaks throughout the day and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Make sure that everyone wears the required safety gear at all times, as this is key to limiting injuries.
Planning Downtime
While enjoyable, skiing can also be exhausting for everyone involved. That means you need to plan and schedule downtime throughout the day, and make sure you’re getting enough rest during the evenings.
Many resorts will offer additional amenities, such as indoor pools for swimming and relaxation, or ice skating for a change of pace. You may want to check if your chosen resort offers spa facilities, as these provide the perfect reset.