Family Ski Trip Survival Guide: 7 Tips for Hitting the Slopes with Kids
Taking a ski trip with kids can be a blast, but it definitely requires more planning than an adults-only adventure. If you’re heading to the mountains with little ones in tow, these tips will help you keep them warm, happy, and excited to hit the slopes. At Christy Sports, we’re here to make your family vacation easy and unforgettable with top-tier gear, convenient locations, and friendly, knowledgeable staff to guide you every step of the way.
1. Lessons Make All the Difference
Teaching your kids to ski yourself might seem tempting, but it can be challenging and frustrating for both you and them. Ski instructors are trained to teach kids safely and effectively, and most importantly, they make it fun! Ski school programs often offer half or full-day lessons; some resorts even combine them with equipment rentals. If you’re also learning, consider family lessons where you can all progress together or have a little solo time while your kids are in class.
2. Stay at Their Level
It’s natural to want to see your kids tackle tougher runs, but remember to stick to their comfort zone. After lessons, ask your child’s instructor which slopes to try as a family. Give your kids a chance to show off their new skills on familiar terrain, and you’ll see their confidence soar! Pushing them too soon can lead to fear and frustration, so keep it fun and easygoing.
3. Plan for Comfort: Dress in Layers
Cold fingers and toes can ruin a ski day fast, so dress your kids in warm layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof, insulated outer layer like the Helly Hansen Summit Ski Jacket Juniors and the Helly Hansen Summit Bib Pants Kids. Investing in good gloves or mittens is essential — the cheaper, thin pairs often don’t hold up in mountain conditions. Check out our What to Pack for a Family Ski Trip guide.
4. Rent, Don’t Buy (at Least at First)
Skiing requires a lot of gear, and kids grow out of it quickly. Instead of purchasing everything upfront, consider renting equipment for the season or the trip. Let Christy Sports take care of all your ski and snowboard rental needs—our family-friendly service, high-end gear, and expert staff will ensure your trip is nothing short of extraordinary. Don’t forget to rent a helmet, too — safety first!
This winter, our Kids Ski Free program makes starting family traditions on the slopes 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.
Find a Christy Sports family of brands location - including The Alpineer, Bootdoctors, Christy Sports, Leisure Living, Powder Tools, and Sturtevant’s.
5. Pick a Family-Friendly Resort
Some ski resorts are more accommodating for families than others. Look for resorts that offer beginner-friendly runs, ski schools, and kid-specific programming. Many family-focused resorts have sledding hills, tubing areas, and other off-slope activities that let you have fun together beyond skiing. Winter Park and Steamboat in Colorado, and Park City in Utah are popular family skiing choices.
6. Pack Snacks and Hydrate Often
Mountain air and physical activity can quickly dehydrate kids, so bring plenty of water and easy snacks like granola bars, fruit, or crackers. Ski resort food can be pricey, so having snacks on hand is cost-effective and convenient. A mid-morning snack break on the slopes can be a lifesaver if your little ones get cranky.
7. Plan for Downtime and Break Days
Skiing can be exhausting, especially for young kids. Schedule some downtime each day, and if you’re on an extended trip, plan a rest day for activities like sledding or exploring the village. This helps avoid burnout, keeping everyone excited for the next day on the mountain.
By planning carefully and focusing on fun, you’ll create memories that will make your kids eager to ski for years to come. Enjoy your trip, and happy skiing!
Family Ski Trip Survival Guide: 7 Tips for Hitting the Slopes with Kids
Taking a ski trip with kids can be a blast, but it definitely requires more planning than an adults-only adventure. If you’re heading to the mountains with little ones in tow, these tips will help you keep them warm, happy, and excited to hit the slopes. At Christy Sports, we’re here to make your family vacation easy and unforgettable with top-tier gear, convenient locations, and friendly, knowledgeable staff to guide you every step of the way.
1. Lessons Make All the Difference
Teaching your kids to ski yourself might seem tempting, but it can be challenging and frustrating for both you and them. Ski instructors are trained to teach kids safely and effectively, and most importantly, they make it fun! Ski school programs often offer half or full-day lessons; some resorts even combine them with equipment rentals. If you’re also learning, consider family lessons where you can all progress together or have a little solo time while your kids are in class.
2. Stay at Their Level
It’s natural to want to see your kids tackle tougher runs, but remember to stick to their comfort zone. After lessons, ask your child’s instructor which slopes to try as a family. Give your kids a chance to show off their new skills on familiar terrain, and you’ll see their confidence soar! Pushing them too soon can lead to fear and frustration, so keep it fun and easygoing.
3. Plan for Comfort: Dress in Layers
Cold fingers and toes can ruin a ski day fast, so dress your kids in warm layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof, insulated outer layer like the Helly Hansen Summit Ski Jacket Juniors and the Helly Hansen Summit Bib Pants Kids. Investing in good gloves or mittens is essential — the cheaper, thin pairs often don’t hold up in mountain conditions. Check out our What to Pack for a Family Ski Trip guide.
4. Rent, Don’t Buy (at Least at First)
Skiing requires a lot of gear, and kids grow out of it quickly. Instead of purchasing everything upfront, consider renting equipment for the season or the trip. Let Christy Sports take care of all your ski and snowboard rental needs—our family-friendly service, high-end gear, and expert staff will ensure your trip is nothing short of extraordinary. Don’t forget to rent a helmet, too — safety first!
This winter, our Kids Ski Free program makes starting family traditions on the slopes 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.
Find a Christy Sports family of brands location - including The Alpineer, Bootdoctors, Christy Sports, Leisure Living, Powder Tools, and Sturtevant’s.
5. Pick a Family-Friendly Resort
Some ski resorts are more accommodating for families than others. Look for resorts that offer beginner-friendly runs, ski schools, and kid-specific programming. Many family-focused resorts have sledding hills, tubing areas, and other off-slope activities that let you have fun together beyond skiing. Winter Park and Steamboat in Colorado, and Park City in Utah are popular family skiing choices.
6. Pack Snacks and Hydrate Often
Mountain air and physical activity can quickly dehydrate kids, so bring plenty of water and easy snacks like granola bars, fruit, or crackers. Ski resort food can be pricey, so having snacks on hand is cost-effective and convenient. A mid-morning snack break on the slopes can be a lifesaver if your little ones get cranky.
7. Plan for Downtime and Break Days
Skiing can be exhausting, especially for young kids. Schedule some downtime each day, and if you’re on an extended trip, plan a rest day for activities like sledding or exploring the village. This helps avoid burnout, keeping everyone excited for the next day on the mountain.
By planning carefully and focusing on fun, you’ll create memories that will make your kids eager to ski for years to come. Enjoy your trip, and happy skiing!
