With global health restrictions easing lately, it’s high time for you and the family to go on a well-deserved vacation. Beaches often have too many people during certain months of the year. Thus, to go against the grain yet still have an adventure, consider planning a ski trip for yourself and the kids.
Many ski resorts are open throughout the year. So, even in the middle of summer, you can surround yourself with powdery white snow and get an adrenaline rush. But there are some restrictions when taking the whole family skiing. For starters, kids tend to be fussy and tricky to handle while on an out-of-town trip. However, this is by no means a hopeless cause. You can have a stress-free vacation if you keep in mind a few things.
That said, here are some helpful tips for having a peaceful and relaxing ski trip with the kids.
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Choose Nearby Accommodation
Most ski resorts are miles away from urban areas unless you live near snowy mountains. Hence, you must book a hotel before you pack your bags. You and your children need a safe and warm place to stay after an exciting experience on the slopes.
Fortunately, many ski destinations are bustling tourist spots with several lodging choices catering to various budgets. Ski-in ski-out hotels are ideal for vacationing families. Look for temporary housing, such as nearby Perisher ski accommodation options close to a particular ski resort. That way, you may only need to drive a couple of miles or walk to the place you’ve reserved.
Bring Ski Clothing That Fit
If there’s anything you must invest in, it’s ski gear and clothes. Children get cold much faster than adults. So, before you leave, ensure that your kids have enough proper clothing for a snow-related activity like skiing.
Make a checklist of what clothes you all need to bring. As a general guide, your skiing wardrobe should have the following:
- Helmet
- Mittens or gloves
- Goggles
- Long underwear and ski socks
- Ski jacket
- Ski pants or bibs
- Moisture-wicking base layer top
- Balaclava mask
Many ski resorts offer gear rentals for those who need this equipment. But buying your helmets and gloves is advisable if you expect to ski with the family more than once a year. This way, you’ll have gear that fits perfectly, and you won’t waste time in the changing area looking for proper-fitting helmets for your kids.
Pick Beginner-Friendly Slopes
Your child’s safety matters most in any out-of-town trip. So, if you’re going skiing, you must choose locations suitable for kids of all ages and skill levels. Children learn fast, but their bodies may not yet handle steep slopes and rough terrain.
One of the skiing mistakes many first-timers make is booking a place for intermediate and advanced skiers. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of ski resorts that cater to beginners. These locations usually offer on-the-spot lessons for ski novices and children. They offer equipment rentals, and some have varying terrain parks for teens and adults seeking something different.
If you’re lucky, you may even find resorts that provide childcare services for young kids who’ve gotten tired. They’ll also give the little ones low-energy activities while they cool down from skiing. Book these services early if needed because slots could run out quickly.
Pack Enough Snacks
Skiing is a high-octane activity many consider an extreme sport. So, expect to feel exhausted after a few rounds. Remember that kids may be little bundles of energy but quickly get tired and hungry.
One surefire solution to this problem is to bring lots of ready-to-eat snacks on your trip. These treats will curb their growling bellies before mealtime. You’ll also benefit from having something to munch on while taking a break on the sidelines.
Some portable snack ideas you may put in a ski trip food pack include:
- Energy bars
- Nut butter packets
- Fresh fruit without peels
- Raisins
It’s best to pack food that doesn’t leave too many crumbs, grease, smells, and waste. They should be easy to open, even with gloves on, and pop in your mouth. Don’t forget to throw out non-recyclable packaging and fruit seeds in the correct waste bins afterward.
Prepare The Kids Beforehand
Last but not least, you must prep the children before setting off to the ski resort. Most kids jump head-first into new and exciting activities without knowing the risks involved. As a parent, you’re responsible for teaching your kids basic safety and social etiquette while vacationing elsewhere.
Start by showing them videos of skiers in action if they’ve never tried skiing yet. It’s good to give them a primer before the coaches at the ski resort tell them the other details. While at the location, remind your kids to follow the rules and instructions and guide them accordingly when they don’t understand.
You can prevent several avoidable issues with a thorough preparation that includes everyone on the trip. By doing so, you and your family can reap the fun and benefits of your vacation.
To Wrap Up
Ski trips are excellent vacation ideas suitable for a family. They offer extreme enjoyment and worthwhile learning experiences for children and adults. So, it’s best to plan and prepare to have a fun and stress-free trip with everyone. Your kids may eventually love skiing so much the first time that they’ll beg for another opportunity next year.
