That's La Plagne
Expert tips: packing for a first-time ski holiday
Make sure YOU'RE prepared for your next family ski holiday with these expert packing tips
Ski Trip Essentials: Your Family Ski Holiday Packing List
A family ski holiday can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it can also be stressful if you're not properly prepared. Packing for a ski trip requires careful planning and organization, especially when you're travelling with children. Here are some expert packing tips to help you pack smart and avoid any last-minute stress on your family ski holiday.
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1) Make a list and check it twice
Before you start packing, make a list of everything you need to bring. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don't forget anything important. Be sure to include all of your ski gear, such as skis, boots, helmets, and goggles, as well as warm clothing like jackets, pants, and gloves. Don't forget to pack any necessary medications, toiletries, and entertainment for the kids, like books or games. Once you have your list, go through it carefully and check off each item as you pack it.
Also, don’t forget about your travel bags. You will be specific items in your carry-on bags to keep your children happy, entertained, and clean on your ski journey – from flights to ski transfers.
To make your life easy, I’ve created these ski holiday packing checklists, you can download and print them out to help you get organised.
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2) Pack for the weather and activities
When packing for a family ski holiday, it's important to consider the weather and activities you'll be participating in. Make sure to pack warm clothing, such as thermal layers and waterproof jackets, as well as appropriate footwear for walking in the snow.
For skiing or snowboarding, bring all necessary equipment and protective gear. Additionally, consider packing items for other activities, such as swimming or ice skating, if they are available at your destination.
By packing for the weather and activities, you'll ensure that everyone is comfortable and prepared for the trip.
3) Don't forget the ski holiday essentials
When packing for a family ski holiday, it's important to remember the essentials. This includes items such as passports, travel documents, and any necessary medications. It's also a good idea to pack snacks and water for the journey, as well as any entertainment for the kids, such as books or games. Don't forget to bring chargers for electronic devices and a first aid kit in case of any accidents. By packing these essentials, you'll be prepared for any situation that may arise during your family ski holiday.
Here is a breakdown of all the essential ski holiday items to consider having on your family ski holiday packing checklists.
SKI CLOTHES
Waterproof Ski Jacket
An absolute must. You will wear you ski jacket every day of your holiday. Look at the quality of the piece and that it will be waterproof in a ski resort and snowy conditions.
Waterproof Ski Pants/Ski Bib
The same goes for ski salopettes, adults, and kids. Top tip – when trying them on, move about in them and squat and bend over. You need to be able to move comfortably in them. If they are too small, the buttons will pop, and the seams will strain. The legs of the salopettes want to comfortably bush the floor so that once you have ski boots on, your ski salopettes will sit comfortably over the ski boots.
Under/mid Layers (for additional insulation)
I’ll often put a vest top on my kids under their base layers for comfort. Also, if it does end up very warm, then they can strip off layers without stripping to nothing. There are some great mid-layers and fleeces here.
Base Layer Tops
Look for thermal base layers with a turtle neck and also sleeves that reach comfortably to your wrists. You want ski thermal base layers that provide a good level of connection between all your clothing break points. Merino wool base layers are the best, they really do wick moisture away. So they might cost more than others, but you need fewer ski base layer tops.
Base Layer Bottoms
The same as above for thermal bottoms. I prefer base-layer leggings that are full length to my ankles, and then I’ll put my ski socks over the top. However, if you do have tight ski boots or sensitive shins, then consider getting ¾ ski thermal bottoms to reduce the amount of material and seams within your ski boots. I really like the Dare2B kids' winter base layers. They are good quality and reasonably priced.
Hats/Beanies
These are my life saver! I always have a beanie hat on under my ski helmet. I love this because I am always cold, and this is an extra layer of warmth for me. However, when we stop skiing or head to après ski, I can take my ski helmet off, keep my ski beanie on, and not worry about having terrible ski helmet hair!
TOP TIP: Avoid beanie hats with bobbles on them if you’re planning on wearing it under a ski helmet. The bobble will make your ski helmet not fit.
Snood/Buff Neck Warmer
They come in a variety of materials and thicknesses. There are thin tube buffs that provide a small layer of protection from windchill. And then thicker, fleecy snoods, providing much more warmth and comfort. I am always cold, so I have a thick fleecy snood that also fits over my helmet for even more comfort!
Thick Winter Socks
Not all socks are created equal! I was recently a guest on The Ski Podcast, and we spent at least 10 minutes just discussing the benefits of different ski socks!
Having said that, they are worth investing in. £20 might seem like a lot for socks. But please trust me when I say they are absolutely with it. Don’t opt for tube socks, they will fall down within your ski boots.
Finally, don’t wear multiple pairs of socks on cold days. Whilst it might seem illogical, doubling up on socks does not keep your feet warm. But it does compromise the blood flow to your feet.
SKI GEAR
Ski gear is often the item that you can rent in the resort to reduce your packing and the amount of bags you are travelling in.
Ski boots/Snowboard boots
When you begin investing in your own ski or snowboard equipment, boots are the first piece I always recommend buying. Having a pair of personal ski boots or snowboard boots fit to your ski style and your feet really will make a big difference to your ski comfort.
Skis and poles or snowboards with bindings
So much to say about skis, poles and snowboards and snowboard bindings. I’ll keep it short and sweet here! For packing purposes, if you own your own ski or snowboard equipment, then you need to pack it!
Ski Goggles
Again worth investing in. The first pair of ski goggles I got cost me £20 from a random high street store, and they were terrible! A decent pair of goggles can set you back up to £100 but again can be worth the investment. Some things to be aware of:
- Prescription ski goggles – yes, you can get prescription ski goggles at a lot of opticians now.
- If you wear glasses, you can fit them under some goggles, so make sure to try them on together if this is your plan. Just be aware that your glasses will often fog up doing this.
- I have opted for contact lenses when skiing as the above options don’t work for me. However, I have friends and their children who comfortably wear their glasses under goggles whilst skiing.
- Remember to take sunglasses in your pocket for when you stop to protect your eyes at lunch or après ski.
Sunglasses
You need to look for polarised lenses with your sunglasses. These lenses are then up to the strong sun in the mountains. You can get some great models from Decathlon for only £20, and they also have a great range of kids’ sunglasses.
TOP TIP: Get your kids used to wearing sunglasses before your family ski holiday. It will help them do it actually when they need sun protection.
Ski helmet
An absolute must, in my opinion. If your children are in ski lessons, it is mandatory that they wear a ski helmet. I would also recommend them to parents as well – you should lead by example to encourage your ski kids to wear them too.
If you are first time skiing, I would recommend renting these in the resort as they are super bulky to pack. They are one of the only ski gear items I would also not recommend buying secondhand as you don’t know what has happened to them prior o you buying them.
TOP TIP: To get your kids excited about wearing their ski helmets, you can buy a cover, usually a cartoon character. My kids both loved these – and it also helped me stop them on busy ski slopes.
OFF THE SLOPES
Comfy after ski pants and tops
You don’t need many options. Honestly, take half the amount you are thinking! You will spend 90% of your time in your ski gear or relaxing in your ski base layers.
Warm Jacket
A thin fleece or ‘shell’ jacket is a great idea that you can also layer up underneath your ski jacket.
Warm Hat
If you’re packing a beanie hat to wear when skiing, you probably won’t want to double up. However, if you don’t wear a hat under your helmet, think about packing one that will fit in your ski jacket pocket. This is so that when you stop for lunch or après ski, you can take your helmet off and put your ski hat on to keep warm and also stop worrying about bad ski helmet hair!
Gloves/Mittens (a dry set separate from ski gear)
Always try to get mittens for kids. Trying to put finger ski gloves on kids is sole destroying.
I also have a pair of under-gloves for myself and my kids. These are a thin thermal pair of gloves to add warmth underneath your main ski gloves.
Then, a separate pair of wooly gloves is a good idea for when you are out and about.
TOP TIP: Make sure to dry your gloves out each evening so they are ready to go again h next morning.
Warm Waterproof shoes
A solid pair of snow boots with good grip are essential. Look for boots with rubber grip and not plastic soles. Plastic boots – like Dr. Martins or UGGS will slip on ice and snow. Good boot brands are Sorel or Timberlands.
Warm Socks
As above for ski socks. Honestly, I wear ski socks all winter. They are comfy and warm. If you want some ‘daytime’ socks. Look for longer, mid-calf-length socks.
Jeans/Pants & Warm Tops
Again, take less than you think. You will hardly wear them. Often only to head out for dinner in the evening. But most nights, you dine in your accommodation.
Underwear
For skiing, you will want some functional sports underwear. I always ski in a sports bra and take a few options with me that look good and are comfortable enough to wear all day.
Sleepwear
Pyjamas and comfortable sleepwear.
TOP TIP: I often put my kids to sleep in their baselayers so when they wake up, they are ready for the next day. Base layers are essentially as warm and comfortable as pajamas. And visa versa, if I am short of ski thermals, I’ll use the kids’ pajamas as they are comfortable and fun designs.
Swimsuit (think jacuzzi!)
Throw swimwear in for all the family. A lot of accommodations have hot tubs now. And if you are looking for a family-friendly non-ski activity, heading to the local pool is a great idea. Especially as it will tire out your children.
SKI HOLIDAY PACKING: TOILETRIES
Sunscreen (yes, even in winter!)
The sun in ski resorts is powerful. It also reflects off your ski goggles and the snow. Make sure you have a strong SPF and pick something for easy application to your children’s faces. I also love to take a travel one in my ski jacket to reapply at lunch stops or après ski.
Lip balm
Your lips will really dry out in ski resorts. So pack some moisturising lip balms. I love this Typology lip duo for daily repair. And then this Elizabeth Arden Intensive Lip Repair is the one used by all my ski mum friends.
Body Lotion (for dry skin)
I recommend packing one with a pump top for easy application each morning. The air is very dry in ski resorts and at altitude, so keep your skin glowing and soft by popping some on after a shower.
Other toiletries to pack for a ski holiday:
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shaving Products
- Hairbrush
- Makeup
- Contacts/Glasses, Contact Solution
- Nail Clippers
- Tweezers
- Medications/Vitamins
You can find recommendations for glowing ski and ski holiday beauty here.
SKI HOLIDAY PACKING: BABIES AND TODDLERS
Baby carrier
Often much easier than trying to push a baby stroller through the snow. I used and love the Ergo Baby 360, which was comfortable for the babies and me. It was also structured enough to feel safe walking through ice and snow conditions.
TOP TIP: Baby carriers are much easier to travel through an airport with than a pushchair. I would always wear one with the baby in it and then use the pushchair to load all the hand luggage onto.
Nappy Bag
Look for a ski nappy bag that is waterproof and can be worn as a backpack. The more functional, the more use you will have for it on a ski holiday.
Nappy Changing Kit
We used to call this the ‘oh crap bag!’ Simply a go-to bag that you can pull out that has everything you and in it for a quick change: nappies, wipes, cream, and nappy bags. Plus, a change of pants and clothes for the baby. But also a change of T-shirt and leggings for you. I’ve lost count of the number of times I got sick on, and I had a change of clothes for my kids but not for myself.
Portable High Chair, Bottle Warmer, Monitor
Make sure you have all the items you need for a successful family ski holiday. However, I would always recommend checking with your accommodation provider to see what they have available in the resort for you. Then, also look for childcare equipment rental companies to see what you can rent in the resort.
Travel Toys
To keep those ski kids happy, you need to keep them entertained. I always try to keep it simple, but I also know that “new” is more interesting than the toys they already have. But rather than buying tat purely for the journey, see what you can borrow from friends with similar-aged children. Or try rotating toys around and take travel toys that they haven’t seen for a while.
TOP TIP: the travel toys we have had success with are: reusable travel stickers, rubbery wiggly worms, coloring-in-ski-themed Pinna – audiobooks and stories, and of course, screens and IPads with wireless headphones.
SKI HOLIDAY PACKING: TECH AND SKI GADGETS
Smartphone
I love my iPhone – but each to their own!
What I would recommend is a phone case that will survive a ski holiday. Think waterproof, and drop or break-proof. I love Mous as they have a range of reasonably priced, indestructible, but also attractive phone accessories.
I also got this phone lanyard from Mous, which I love! Because now, I can take my phone out on chairlifts and whilst skiing without worrying about dropping it off the chairlift.
I’ve also got this amazing coiled phone lanyard from trixski, which is super easy to fit any phone and keeps my phone safe on chairlifts.
Wallet
As you are aware, you can pay by apple pay in most shops and restaurants in ski resorts. Reducing the need to carry your wallet around with you. However, there are some remote restaurants where you may need cash to pay in, BUT it is rare.
I like this Mous wallet that attaches to your phone case, making it super compact and easy to fit into your ski jacket.
Camera/GoPro
For most of us, your phone will have all the camera quality you need. I take most of my social media content on my iPhone.
However, if you want to film more, it can be worth looking at a GoPro plus a waterproof case and a ski helmet mount. Or Insta 360 camera.
Passports/ID cards
Clearly, don’t forget these! Otherwise, your family will be skiing without you. DO make sure to check the dates on all your passports. I have had several guests over the years that haven’t been able to travel as their passports expired during their holiday.
Lift Tickets/Passes
Check out this article for everything you need to think about for your lift passes.
Insurance
Make sure your travel insurance covers skiing on and off-piste. You can also add a carte neige to your ski pass to provide additional insurance for your family ski holiday.
Tablet & headphones
We have an iPad, but again, I think it was given to us as a gift from a family member. Whatever you have access to, bring it! Just make sure you have the chargers and a good case for it. Also, the ability for your kid(s) to use it together. We have a headphone splitter so 2 – 4 kids can listen to the same iPad at the same time.
Chargers for all devices and converter plugs
TOP TIP: if you have lots of UK – or non-EU – plugs, think about bringing a multi-plug, and then you only need one plug converter that can connect all your items to the multiplug.
First Aid Kit
I would always recommend packing lots of plasters and Compeed blister plasters. After having run a 10k here in the mountains and getting multiple blisters on my feet, Compeed blister plasters were good enough that I was back out skiing the next day whilst the plasters provided enough protection for total comfort.
Water Bottles
I love these refillable squeezy water bottles from Decathlon for popping into my kids’ pockets. Perfect for their ski lessons. And they love them too because they are like water pistles – apparently!
Hand Warmers
I like these reusable hand warmers, and they really do work. Again, great for putting in my kids’ ski jacket pockets if they need to ‘crack’ them to warm up mid-ski lesson.
Tissues
Absolute must on a family ski holiday. However, rather than packs of disposable tissues, I use old-fashioned, washable hankies. They work amazingly well on ski holidays when disposable tissues fall apart in snowy conditions.
TOP TIP Get them from secondhand and charity shops, where you can often pick them up for 50p for a bundle of 10.
4) Pack strategically to save space
When packing for a family ski holiday, it's important to pack strategically to save space. One way to do this is to roll your clothes instead of folding them, which can help to maximize space in your suitcase. I also love using packing cubes or vacuum bags to keep your items organized and make it easier to find what you need. I’ve found some great rollable vacuum bags, which are great for holidays because you don’t need a vacuum to activate them.
Another tip is to pack items inside your ski boots or helmets to save space and protect them during travel. By packing strategically, you can ensure that you have everything you need for your family ski holiday without overpacking or feeling overwhelmed.
But my absolute top tip is to look at all the clothes you plan on packing and then half it! You will be wearing your ski gear for most of every day. Your ski gear goes on in the morning and then all day into après. It will be used for most outdoor non-skiing activities before heading back to your chalet for bed!
5) Consider renting equipment to save on packing
If you're travelling to a ski resort, it may be more cost-effective and convenient to rent equipment instead of packing it. All ski resorts offer rental options for skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets, which can save you space in your luggage and eliminate the hassle of transporting bulky equipment.
Additionally, renting equipment can be a great option for families with children who may outgrow their equipment quickly or for those who only ski or snowboard occasionally. Be sure to research rental options in advance and reserve your equipment to ensure availability during your trip.
Renting is not just for ski equipment, however. Check out EcoSki for clothing, again ideal for children that grow out of their ski clothing every winter. But they also have the most recent outfits for adults, so if you fancy a change in ski gear – but for a fraction of the price, rent a ski outfit from EcoSki.
The other thing you can rent is childcare equipment. You don’t need to travel with suitcases full of toys, books, baby equipment, buggies, etc. Companies like AlleyOops La Plagne will deliver all this to your door and then collect it when you leave. So easy and simple.
6) Ski snacks and food essentials
An absolute must are some go-to snacks, both for the ski resort transfer. But then, when you’re skiing, it’s a great idea to have some pocket snacks to keep blood sugar high and the risk of ski meltdowns and tantrums low. I always recommend that you buy some of your family or ski kids’ favourite snacks in advance and bring them with you. Of course, you can buy them at your ski resort, but they will cost a lot more. Plus, you will want them on your travels. We will usually order a tub of Haribo and then decant it into reusable bags for the kids to keep in their pockets or bags.
If you have booked a self-catered ski holiday, you should also consider where you will be shopping. If you can stop in the valley, it will cost a lot less than food shopping in a ski resort.
TOP TIP! A lot of self-catered apartments in France don’t have kettles, so if a morning cuppa is important to you, think about taking a travel kettle with you. I found this amazing foldable travel kettle, perfect for space-saving on ski holidays.
If you have dietary requirements, food allergies, or intolerances, find out what you can find in the resort to avoid overpacking. Then, you can focus on bringing the food essentials that you can’t find in your ski resort. Here are all the food items you can find for dietary requirements in La Plagne for gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose intolerance, and vegan diets.
A great alternative to having to cook all your own food is to organise a food delivery service, like Huski. They cater to all food allergies, intolerances, and vegan and vegetarian diets. You can order to have a meal ready for your arrival day, just breakfasts, kids meals, or sort out your whole holiday. Find out more about Huski Meal Deliveries.
7) Items to Rent if Hotel Doesn't Provide
Most accommodations will provide childcare equipment like cots, highchairs, and pushchairs, so always ask what they have available before trying to bring your own.
Other things to check into are sleds, snow toys, kids’ books, and other childcare equipment. If they don’t have them available, you can always rent them in a resort instead of packing them or buying new things to leave behind then.
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I hope these packing checklists will help make your life more simple for your next ski holiday. Whether it’s a family ski holiday or heading skiing with friends. Your ski holiday is more likely to be a success if you’ve ticked off all the essentials before arriving at your ski resort. Then you can relax, unwind and start enjoying your alpine ski holiday like a seasoned pro!
Drop me any questions below if you want to know more about ski holiday packing. Or if you’re looking for any other ski holiday help!
See you on the slopes!
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