A family ski trip can make memories that last a lifetime. I have made several of these trips with my family over the years, waiting, of course, until the kids were old enough to appreciate the experience. Each of these trips was a full-out family adventure.Seven tips on how you can easily prepare yourself to go on a ski and snowboard family trip.In this article, you will find Snowboard Trip.
Family ski trips, when prepared for properly, provide quality time with the kids and allow for a break from everyday stressors that build-up for everyone. Even the littlest members of our families need a break every now and then.
Preparing for a family ski trip thoroughly while not losing your mind over every detail is a fine line to walk; but it is crucial to plan well so that snafus don’t sabotage your well-earned vacation.
We will discuss some tips on how to prepare for a family ski or snowboarding trip, things I have found useful when planning our own family’s getaways. If you have never been skiing, watching YouTube videos and reading intro skiing guides can prepare you for your first lessons.
Related Read: A Guide to Skiing in Finland
Choose a Location
When selecting a specific ski area, make sure to do sufficient research to ensure the ski area fits your family’s skiing experience and other needs. Have those less experienced skiers in the family even seen snow before?
Some ski resorts are more kid-friendly than others. Those resorts that cater to families sometimes include activities for the kids, a higher percentage of beginners’ slopes, daycare, and other amenities that appeal to families with children.
Recommended Read: Snowboarding and Ski Classes at Stowe Ski Resort Vermont
Make a Checklist
You will want to make two checklists a few weeks or even a couple of months before you depart. One of these lists should include arrangements such as registering for ski lessons, looking into available discounts and reserving rental ski/snowboard equipment.
The other list should include items to bring along on your family ski adventure. If your kids have never been skiing, here is a guide to get you started.
Clothes to Bring
Obviously, you will need to pack warm clothes for skiing. If you don’t have yet a good quality ski jacket, don’t skimp! You can find some great recommendations for ski jackets on OutsidePursuits. Don’t forget lighter attire for use indoors, and make sure to throw a bathing suit in your bag, so you can soothe those tired muscles in the hot tub after a day on the slopes. This may seem like a lot to bring when you have a whole family to pack for, but a comfortable family will be a happy family.
Rewards for the Kids
If you are planning your first family ski trip, get the kids excited by explaining the various activities you plan to enjoy together. Talk about what to expect in terms of the weather, your accommodations, and what you’ll be doing while there. Ask them if there’s anything special they’d like to do or see.
Once there, encourage your kids to show off the new skills they’ve learned during ski lessons. Cheer on their successes and show off some your own techniques.
Equipment
Luckily, you can rent most ski or snowboard equipment. This includes skis, boots, poles, goggles, and helmets. Also, If you want to hang your skis and snowboards, then you can buy the ski hanging hooks as the best equipment to keep them safe in a neutral position. For skiing, the only thing you really need to bring is warm clothing, but it is worth noting that some items, like helmets, are so reasonably priced it may make more sense to buy them than to rent them.
If you choose to purchase gear, make sure it fits properly before leaving the store. If you rent, the store associates will make sure to fit you and your family properly. They are experts in knowing the size and type of ski that’s right for each person, how a boot should fit, etc.
If your kids begin to complain about feeling uncomfortable in their ski garb, take them seriously and have a professional check their equipment. Discomfort will make for a long and miserable day for all involved.
Rest Often, Eat Well
Kids will tire easily on the slopes, so remember to give them breaks when needed. Carry snacks so you and the kids can have something to munch on when you require a little nourishment. Don’t let the cool weather fool you. You and the family will work up a sweat skiing, so hydration is key. Having enough water is essential.
At the end of your long day, make sure everyone has had a hearty dinner and gets a good night’s rest. Skiing is hard work and can take a lot out of you.
The overall message here is preparation is key. If you are well-prepared and make sure your family’s needs have been anticipated, the trip should go off without a hitch and everyone will have a great time!
Skiing can be a great getaway from “real life” and an opportunity to spend quality time with your family. Who knows, you may even get the kids to break away from electronics for a few days!
Planning a family ski trip doesn’t have to be a stressful event. By using checklists and doing a little of research, you can practically guarantee a family vacation that will be fun for all.
Enjoy your family ski trip!
Related Post: Best places to ski in Switzerland
