Top Tips for Planning the Perfect Family Ski Trip
Skiing is a pastime that’s been beloved by families for generations. Head out to an alpine resort for a week, and you could come away with memories that last for a lifetime. On the other hand, getting the best from this kind of holiday means getting your planning right. So, what does an effective plan for a family ski holiday look like?
Choose the Right Family-Friendly Ski Resort
If you don’t pick out the right resort, then you’re unlikely to have a great time. If there aren’t enough slopes that match your level of experience, then you might find yourself restricted. This applies whether you’re a beginner looking for a selection of nursery slopes to work on your skills, or you’re an experienced skier looking to push your boundaries.
For families, it’s also worth thinking about the facilities on offer, and whether they’ll cater to your needs. This might mean looking for apres-ski activities, childcare, and English-speaking ski schools.
Timing Matters: The Best Months for a Family Ski Trip
If you want to get the best possible value for your money, then you’ll want to time your trip appropriately. If the school holidays are underway, then you might end up paying significantly more for your accommodation. If you’re heading out very early in the season or very late, then the snow coverage might not be as good as it might be. If you can help it, you might plan a trip in the middle of January – or in mid-March, instead.
Of course, if you’re taking the kids, then you might not have a choice but to book a ski holiday during the half-term break. Make sure that you book early since accommodation is sure to be in high demand.
Book Equipment & Lessons in Advance
As with your accommodation, it’s important to sort your lessons and equipment out in advance. If you know what size boots and skis you’re looking for, then reserve them from the rental shop (or buy them yourself). This will save you time and energy when you get to the resort and save you from having to settle for substandard equipment.
You might also get some time on a slope before you head out. See whether there’s an indoor snow centre near you. It might be that kids can benefit from a little bit of practice before they tackle the real mountain.
Pack Smart: Ski Essentials for the Whole Family
If you’re going to enjoy yourself on the slopes, you’ll need to be comfortable. In most cases, this means packing the right combination of clothing. Skiing attire consists of three layers, which variously wick up sweat, keep the skier warm, and repel moisture. Make sure that you have gloves, too. Snowboarders might benefit from wrist protection, too – and everyone will need a helmet, sunblock, and goggles.
Plan for Non-Ski Activities
It might be that some of you want a break from skiing every so often. Plan a few other activities, if the resort provides them. Ice skating, tobogganing, snowshoeing might all be worth investigating. You might even find that there’s a local adventure playground to explore, too.
Stay Safe on the Slopes
Safety gear is critical, especially for children. But you’ll also need everyone to have the skills they need to protect themselves. Know your limits when it comes to the difficulty of the runs you’re attempting. Be mindful of the resort’s rules, and be on the lookout for other skiers who might run into you. You might also carry a small backpack with you so that you can take a phone, water and other supplies during an emergency.
Book Family-Friendly Accommodation
The quality of your lodgings will make a big difference. Look for chalets and hotels with direct access to the slopes – this will save you the stress and hassle of walking in ski boots. Certain kinds of accommodation might come with built-in kids’ play areas and special catering for fussy eaters – explore your options and choose the accommodation that’s right for you.
Make the Most of Après-Ski with Kids
Getting the best from apres-ski means picking entertainment that’s right for your family. This might mean live music, restaurants, and special one-off events. You might enjoy a hot chocolate, for example, while watching snowboarders tackle a floodlit halfpipe.
A good ski holiday tends to be a well-planned one. Make sure that you choose a good resort, and book well in advance. Keep your options open, see how you get on, and be ready to pivot to non-skiing activities!