What to Pack for a Family Ski Trip: The Ultimate Guide for Stress-Free Fun on the Slopes
A family ski trip can be one of the most unforgettable vacations. With thrilling days on the slopes, cozy evenings by the fire, and quality time together in a winter wonderland, it offers a unique experience. However, packing for a ski trip with kids can feel overwhelming. With the proper preparation, your family can hit the mountains feeling warm, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every moment.
Here’s a comprehensive packing guide and some tips to help make your experience as smooth as possible. Remember, when you rent from Christy Sports, you'll have access to high-quality, well-maintained gear and expert advice, allowing you to focus on family fun instead of logistics.
Let us help you create a trip that’s as memorable off the slopes as it is on them! This winter, our Kids Ski Free program makes starting family traditions on the slopes that much easier with family-friendly pricing. Kids 12 & under ski free with any qualifying adult ski or snowboard package. Want to save even more? Get 20% off your adult rental package when you reserve at least 24 hours in advance.
Essential Ski and Snowboard Gear
Skis, Poles, Snowboards, and Boots: Packing bulky equipment for each family member can be challenging, especially if you’re flying or driving long distances. Thankfully, Christy Sports has convenient, slope-side locations across Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Washington, so you can rent everything you need right where you love to ski. Our gear is top-quality and maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for everyone.
Helmets: A properly fitted helmet is essential for head protection while skiing or snowboarding. Christy Sports offers a variety of well-maintained rental helmets, and our friendly team members are here to help you find the perfect fit. If you would like to rent a helmet, please reserve one along with your rental gear.
The Smith Scout Jr. MIPS Helmet Kids provides top-tier safety and comfort for young skiers with its lightweight, in-mold construction and advanced Mips® Brain Protection System. Designed for seamless integration with Smith goggles, it features an adjustable dial fit, fixed vents for fog-free lenses, and a soft, cozy liner to keep kids warm on the slopes.
Goggles: Spending time on the slopes on a clear, sunny day is a dream for many, but the sun's glare off the snow can be bright and intense. On the other hand, a stormy powder day can be even more enjoyable, though skiing can be challenging with snow in your eyes! A good pair of goggles is essential for protecting your eyes from the sun, wind, and snow. High-quality goggle lenses can enhance your terrain visibility, improving your skiing or riding experience.
The Smith Daredevil goggles are designed for kids to fit comfortably over glasses. With a floating foam design that reduces pressure from eyeglass temples and a semi-rimless style for a wide field of vision, these goggles enhance depth perception and contrast. The light rose lens tint and multi-layer mirror optimize color definition, making them ideal for varying flat light conditions. Check out our Goggle Buying Guide for more suggestions.
Clothing Layers: Dressing in layers is essential to stay warm, dry, and comfortable. Pack thermal base layers, mid-layers for insulation (like fleece or wool), and waterproof outer layers. Our expert staff can advise on gear that will keep everyone warm without overheating. And if you’re short on a few layers, we carry high-quality winter wear, so you’re covered even if you leave something behind.
- Base Layers: The foundation of your ski outfit, it should be moisture-wicking and insulating. Opt for materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics (such as polyester) to keep sweat off your skin and regulate body temperature. The Hot Chillys Original Kids Thermal offers a perfect warmth-to-weight balance, keeping kids cozy without bulk during cold-weather activities. Made with soft, moisture-wicking fabric and a body-hugging stretch design, it provides comfortable, next-to-skin warmth with UPF 30+ protection for outdoor adventures.
- Mid Layers: This layer provides insulation and retains heat. Fleece, down, or synthetic insulated jackets work well here, offering warmth without bulk. A lightweight puffy or fleece jacket is a great choice. The Helly Hansen Champ 1/2 Zip Mid Layer for juniors is a cozy, versatile piece perfect for layering on chilly days or under a jacket in colder weather. Made with soft fleece, it features thumbholes, a chin guard, and a YKK zipper for added comfort and protection.
- Outer Layers: The final protective layer shields you from wind, snow, and moisture. A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants made of Gore-Tex or similar materials are ideal. These protect you from the elements while allowing sweat and moisture to escape.
Snow Bibs and Waterproof Pants: Investing in waterproof and windproof ski gear is crucial for staying warm, dry, and comfortable in harsh mountain conditions. Waterproof gear shields against snow and moisture, ensuring you remain dry even in wet weather, while windproof fabrics block cold winds from getting through. This helps retain body heat, allowing for a longer and more enjoyable time on the slopes. The Spyder Propulsion Juniors Pants combine high-performance features with durable construction to keep kids warm and dry during winter adventures. Made from EXO Shield recycled polyester with 60g EXO Thermo insulation, these pants include adjustable suspenders, inner snow gaiters, and reinforced scuff cuffs for added comfort and protection.
The Town Hall Down Town Kids Puffy jacket combines eco-friendly materials with premium warmth. It uses 100% recycled duck-down insulation and a PFC-free DWR finish for water resistance. Featuring YKK zippers, an attached hood, and cozy side pockets, this versatile puffy provides reliable warmth for kids during outdoor adventures or chilly days.
Waterproof Gloves and Mittens: Fingers get cold quickly, so pack waterproof gloves for everyone in the family, and consider mittens for younger kids (they’re often warmer). The Hestra GORE-TEX Atlas junior mittens are designed to keep kids' hands warm and dry during winter with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX protection. Made from durable polyester and featuring a PU-coated grip on the palm, these mittens offer comfort, warmth, and functionality in varying weather conditions.
Face Masks and Neck Gaiters: These accessories protect little faces from wind and cold. However, they’re also easy to lose, so consider bringing a backup! The Turtle Fur Comfort Maxclava is a lightweight, high-performance balaclava crafted for kids. It provides full neck, ears, and head coverage with a hinged face panel for customizable warmth. Made from soft, breathable Comfort Shell™ fabric, it wicks moisture, resists odors, offers UPF 50+ protection, and is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather adventures.
Winter Sport Socks: The Darn Tough Magic Mountain OTC Midweight Ski & Snowboard Socks for kids deliver warmth, durability, and comfort with soft Merino wool and added cushioning in the shin for skiing and snowboarding. Designed to stay in place without slipping or bunching, these Vermont-made socks keep feet warm, dry, and comfortable through all winter adventures, backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Essentials for Comfort and Convenience
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Snow reflects the sun’s rays, so protect everyone’s skin with high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm. Keep these items handy for reapplications during breaks.
Snacks and Water Bottles: Keeping kids hydrated and energized is key for a successful day on the slopes. Skiing burns 400-750 calories per hour, so pack water and high-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and turkey or peanut butter sandwiches. Choose snacks with a balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats to maintain energy. Trail mix, protein bars, and crunchy snacks like pretzels or pop chips are also great options.
Backpack: A small backpack can be a lifesaver for carrying snacks, water, and extra layers. Look for a lightweight, water-resistant option that’s easy to stash on the chairlift or in the lodge.
Made for the mountain minimalist, the Dakine Heli Pro 12L Backpack covers the essentials while you focus on the line ahead. This low-profile pack has everything you need for a lightweight backcountry excursion, including purpose-built snow tool sleeves and external shovel blade carry, a large fleece-lined goggle pocket, and a hydration sleeve that doubles as laptop storage off the mountain.
Slope-Side Extras for a Stress-Free Trip
Hand Warmers and Foot Warmers: Little hands and feet get cold quickly! Hand and foot warmers easily slip into gloves and boots, providing extra comfort on colder days. These ultra-thin, single-use heat packs are easy to use and feature an adhesive to stay securely in place, ensuring comfortable warmth all day. Hand and foot warmers are available to purchase at our convenient slope-side locations, so there is no need to worry about forgetting them at home.
Ski Passes and Tickets: Ensure you’ve arranged your ski passes in advance, as many resorts offer discounts for advanced reservations.
Off-Slope Essentials: Many resorts have evening activities for families, so don’t forget comfortable clothes, cozy sweaters, and indoor shoes for after-ski relaxation. At Christy Sports, we have plenty of family-friendly recommendations to make your stay as memorable off the slopes as it is on them!
The Line Bootie 2.0 is the perfect après-ski footwear. It is designed with a thick layer of Intuition foam for unbeatable comfort and molded to fit your feet. With grippy outsoles and cinch lacing, these booties keep your feet warm and stable, whether heading to the mountain or relaxing at home.
The North Face Thermoball Traction Booties for kids are insulated with eco-friendly ThermoBall™ Eco to keep feet warm, even when wet. With a convenient easy-on design and durable rubber outsoles, these booties provide reliable traction for both indoor and outdoor adventures.
Tips for Packing Light and Efficiently
When traveling with kids, it’s tempting to over-pack. Christy Sports is here to simplify things! Our locations offer everything you need, so you can pack less and rent the rest. With a convenient family of brands, including The Alpineer, Bootdoctors, Leisure Living, Powder Tools, and Sturtevant’s, we make it easy to find a store near your destination with all the essentials. Whether you’re looking for last-minute gear, winter wear, or expert advice from seasoned employees, our teams are ready to help you make the most of your trip.
Why Choose Christy Sports for Your Family Ski Adventure?
Christy Sports has long been a trusted choice for families because we focus on creating unforgettable experiences. Our slope-side locations, well-maintained equipment, and expert staff help your family feel confident and excited for every day on the mountain. With high-end service and thoughtful amenities, we’re here to support all your family ski needs.
Our Kids Ski Free program is designed to make family traditions on the slopes easier and more affordable. Kids 12 and under ski free with any qualifying adult ski or snowboard rental package, so you can save while enjoying the best in winter sports.
So, as you pack for your next family ski trip, remember that Christy Sports has your back. Whether you’re a first-time skiing family or seasoned winter adventurers, our goal is to help you make the most of every moment—on and off the slopes.
What to Pack for a Family Ski Trip: The Ultimate Guide for Stress-Free Fun on the Slopes
A family ski trip can be one of the most unforgettable vacations. With thrilling days on the slopes, cozy evenings by the fire, and quality time together in a winter wonderland, it offers a unique experience. However, packing for a ski trip with kids can feel overwhelming. With the proper preparation, your family can hit the mountains feeling warm, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every moment.
Here’s a comprehensive packing guide and some tips to help make your experience as smooth as possible. Remember, when you rent from Christy Sports, you'll have access to high-quality, well-maintained gear and expert advice, allowing you to focus on family fun instead of logistics.
Let us help you create a trip that’s as memorable off the slopes as it is on them! This winter, our Kids Ski Free program makes starting family traditions on the slopes that much easier with family-friendly pricing. Kids 12 & under ski free with any qualifying adult ski or snowboard package. Want to save even more? Get 20% off your adult rental package when you reserve at least 24 hours in advance.
Essential Ski and Snowboard Gear
Skis, Poles, Snowboards, and Boots: Packing bulky equipment for each family member can be challenging, especially if you’re flying or driving long distances. Thankfully, Christy Sports has convenient, slope-side locations across Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Washington, so you can rent everything you need right where you love to ski. Our gear is top-quality and maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for everyone.
Helmets: A properly fitted helmet is essential for head protection while skiing or snowboarding. Christy Sports offers a variety of well-maintained rental helmets, and our friendly team members are here to help you find the perfect fit. If you would like to rent a helmet, please reserve one along with your rental gear.
The Smith Scout Jr. MIPS Helmet Kids provides top-tier safety and comfort for young skiers with its lightweight, in-mold construction and advanced Mips® Brain Protection System. Designed for seamless integration with Smith goggles, it features an adjustable dial fit, fixed vents for fog-free lenses, and a soft, cozy liner to keep kids warm on the slopes.
Goggles: Spending time on the slopes on a clear, sunny day is a dream for many, but the sun's glare off the snow can be bright and intense. On the other hand, a stormy powder day can be even more enjoyable, though skiing can be challenging with snow in your eyes! A good pair of goggles is essential for protecting your eyes from the sun, wind, and snow. High-quality goggle lenses can enhance your terrain visibility, improving your skiing or riding experience.
The Smith Daredevil goggles are designed for kids to fit comfortably over glasses. With a floating foam design that reduces pressure from eyeglass temples and a semi-rimless style for a wide field of vision, these goggles enhance depth perception and contrast. The light rose lens tint and multi-layer mirror optimize color definition, making them ideal for varying flat light conditions. Check out our Goggle Buying Guide for more suggestions.
Clothing Layers: Dressing in layers is essential to stay warm, dry, and comfortable. Pack thermal base layers, mid-layers for insulation (like fleece or wool), and waterproof outer layers. Our expert staff can advise on gear that will keep everyone warm without overheating. And if you’re short on a few layers, we carry high-quality winter wear, so you’re covered even if you leave something behind.
- Base Layers: The foundation of your ski outfit, it should be moisture-wicking and insulating. Opt for materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics (such as polyester) to keep sweat off your skin and regulate body temperature. The Hot Chillys Original Kids Thermal offers a perfect warmth-to-weight balance, keeping kids cozy without bulk during cold-weather activities. Made with soft, moisture-wicking fabric and a body-hugging stretch design, it provides comfortable, next-to-skin warmth with UPF 30+ protection for outdoor adventures.
- Mid Layers: This layer provides insulation and retains heat. Fleece, down, or synthetic insulated jackets work well here, offering warmth without bulk. A lightweight puffy or fleece jacket is a great choice. The Helly Hansen Champ 1/2 Zip Mid Layer for juniors is a cozy, versatile piece perfect for layering on chilly days or under a jacket in colder weather. Made with soft fleece, it features thumbholes, a chin guard, and a YKK zipper for added comfort and protection.
- Outer Layers: The final protective layer shields you from wind, snow, and moisture. A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants made of Gore-Tex or similar materials are ideal. These protect you from the elements while allowing sweat and moisture to escape.
Snow Bibs and Waterproof Pants: Investing in waterproof and windproof ski gear is crucial for staying warm, dry, and comfortable in harsh mountain conditions. Waterproof gear shields against snow and moisture, ensuring you remain dry even in wet weather, while windproof fabrics block cold winds from getting through. This helps retain body heat, allowing for a longer and more enjoyable time on the slopes. The Spyder Propulsion Juniors Pants combine high-performance features with durable construction to keep kids warm and dry during winter adventures. Made from EXO Shield recycled polyester with 60g EXO Thermo insulation, these pants include adjustable suspenders, inner snow gaiters, and reinforced scuff cuffs for added comfort and protection.
The Town Hall Down Town Kids Puffy jacket combines eco-friendly materials with premium warmth. It uses 100% recycled duck-down insulation and a PFC-free DWR finish for water resistance. Featuring YKK zippers, an attached hood, and cozy side pockets, this versatile puffy provides reliable warmth for kids during outdoor adventures or chilly days.
Waterproof Gloves and Mittens: Fingers get cold quickly, so pack waterproof gloves for everyone in the family, and consider mittens for younger kids (they’re often warmer). The Hestra GORE-TEX Atlas junior mittens are designed to keep kids' hands warm and dry during winter with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX protection. Made from durable polyester and featuring a PU-coated grip on the palm, these mittens offer comfort, warmth, and functionality in varying weather conditions.
Face Masks and Neck Gaiters: These accessories protect little faces from wind and cold. However, they’re also easy to lose, so consider bringing a backup! The Turtle Fur Comfort Maxclava is a lightweight, high-performance balaclava crafted for kids. It provides full neck, ears, and head coverage with a hinged face panel for customizable warmth. Made from soft, breathable Comfort Shell™ fabric, it wicks moisture, resists odors, offers UPF 50+ protection, and is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather adventures.
Winter Sport Socks: The Darn Tough Magic Mountain OTC Midweight Ski & Snowboard Socks for kids deliver warmth, durability, and comfort with soft Merino wool and added cushioning in the shin for skiing and snowboarding. Designed to stay in place without slipping or bunching, these Vermont-made socks keep feet warm, dry, and comfortable through all winter adventures, backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Essentials for Comfort and Convenience
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Snow reflects the sun’s rays, so protect everyone’s skin with high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm. Keep these items handy for reapplications during breaks.
Snacks and Water Bottles: Keeping kids hydrated and energized is key for a successful day on the slopes. Skiing burns 400-750 calories per hour, so pack water and high-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and turkey or peanut butter sandwiches. Choose snacks with a balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats to maintain energy. Trail mix, protein bars, and crunchy snacks like pretzels or pop chips are also great options.
Backpack: A small backpack can be a lifesaver for carrying snacks, water, and extra layers. Look for a lightweight, water-resistant option that’s easy to stash on the chairlift or in the lodge.
Made for the mountain minimalist, the Dakine Heli Pro 12L Backpack covers the essentials while you focus on the line ahead. This low-profile pack has everything you need for a lightweight backcountry excursion, including purpose-built snow tool sleeves and external shovel blade carry, a large fleece-lined goggle pocket, and a hydration sleeve that doubles as laptop storage off the mountain.
Slope-Side Extras for a Stress-Free Trip
Hand Warmers and Foot Warmers: Little hands and feet get cold quickly! Hand and foot warmers easily slip into gloves and boots, providing extra comfort on colder days. These ultra-thin, single-use heat packs are easy to use and feature an adhesive to stay securely in place, ensuring comfortable warmth all day. Hand and foot warmers are available to purchase at our convenient slope-side locations, so there is no need to worry about forgetting them at home.
Ski Passes and Tickets: Ensure you’ve arranged your ski passes in advance, as many resorts offer discounts for advanced reservations.
Off-Slope Essentials: Many resorts have evening activities for families, so don’t forget comfortable clothes, cozy sweaters, and indoor shoes for after-ski relaxation. At Christy Sports, we have plenty of family-friendly recommendations to make your stay as memorable off the slopes as it is on them!
The Line Bootie 2.0 is the perfect après-ski footwear. It is designed with a thick layer of Intuition foam for unbeatable comfort and molded to fit your feet. With grippy outsoles and cinch lacing, these booties keep your feet warm and stable, whether heading to the mountain or relaxing at home.
The North Face Thermoball Traction Booties for kids are insulated with eco-friendly ThermoBall™ Eco to keep feet warm, even when wet. With a convenient easy-on design and durable rubber outsoles, these booties provide reliable traction for both indoor and outdoor adventures.
Tips for Packing Light and Efficiently
When traveling with kids, it’s tempting to over-pack. Christy Sports is here to simplify things! Our locations offer everything you need, so you can pack less and rent the rest. With a convenient family of brands, including The Alpineer, Bootdoctors, Leisure Living, Powder Tools, and Sturtevant’s, we make it easy to find a store near your destination with all the essentials. Whether you’re looking for last-minute gear, winter wear, or expert advice from seasoned employees, our teams are ready to help you make the most of your trip.
Why Choose Christy Sports for Your Family Ski Adventure?
Christy Sports has long been a trusted choice for families because we focus on creating unforgettable experiences. Our slope-side locations, well-maintained equipment, and expert staff help your family feel confident and excited for every day on the mountain. With high-end service and thoughtful amenities, we’re here to support all your family ski needs.
Our Kids Ski Free program is designed to make family traditions on the slopes easier and more affordable. Kids 12 and under ski free with any qualifying adult ski or snowboard rental package, so you can save while enjoying the best in winter sports.
So, as you pack for your next family ski trip, remember that Christy Sports has your back. Whether you’re a first-time skiing family or seasoned winter adventurers, our goal is to help you make the most of every moment—on and off the slopes.
