Travel

Family Ski Trip Packing List (With Kids)

Kellie Hartwell
Family Ski Trip Packing List (With Kids)
Kids geared up in the snow at the base of the mountain

Ski & Snow Gear

  • Skis/Snowboard (if you own them, otherwise plan to rent)
  • Ski Poles
  • Ski Boots
  • Ski/Snowboard Helmets (bring your own for comfort and hygiene)
  • Ski/Snowboard Goggles
  • Balaclava/Ninja Hood (to protect face and neck from cold winds)
  • Ski Jacket (waterproof, insulated)
  • Ski Pants (waterproof, insulated)
  • Base Layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
  • Ski Socks (extra pairs to avoid the dreaded lost sock problem)
  • Ski Gloves/Mittens (with clips or straps to prevent losing them)
  • Hand Warmers (buy in bulk and stash in every pocket)
  • Neck Warmers/Scarves
  • Ski Straps (to easily carry skis and poles)
  • Snow Boots (for walking around the lodge or town)
  • Snow Chains (if driving to the resort)
  • Lip Balm (with SPF to protect against sun and wind)
  • Sunscreen (even in cold weather, sun exposure is high on the slopes)

Clothing

  • Insulated, Waterproof Gloves/Mittens
  • Warm Hats/Beanies (for off the slopes)
  • Sweaters/Fleece Jackets (for layering)
  • Casual Clothing (for lounging at the lodge)
  • Pajamas (warm enough for chilly cabins)
  • Swimwear (if there’s a hot tub or pool)
  • Extra Socks (always a few extra pairs for everyone)
  • Snow Pants (for kids for sledding or snow play when not skiing)
  • Regular Shoes (for going out to dinner or exploring the resort)

Toiletries

  • Tissues (pack small tissue packs in every jacket pocket)
  • Moisturizer (the cold and wind can dry out skin quickly)
  • Travel-Size Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste
  • Medications (any regular prescriptions, plus basic meds like ibuprofen)
  • First-Aid Kit (with band-aids, antiseptic cream, and blister pads)

For Kids

  • Extra Sets of Clothes (accidents happen!)
  • Favorite Blanket/Toy (comfort items for downtime or sleep)
  • Sleds/Tubes (if not provided at the resort)
  • Books, Tablets, or Coloring Books (for quiet time or plane/car rides)
  • Waterproof Bibs/Neck Gaiters (extra protection against snow)
  • Snacks (bring kid-friendly snacks for long days on the slopes or in the lodge)
  • Sippy Cups/Bottles (if needed for younger kids)

Entertainment & Activities

  • Board Games/Card Games (Uno, Scrabble, Spot It! for family fun)
  • Watercolor Pencils and Paper (for creative downtime)
  • Portable DVD Player/Tablet with Movies (for evening wind-down)
  • Cocoa Bombs or Hot Chocolate Mix (for apres-ski treats)
  • Printable Crafts (simple projects like DIY paper gondolas)

Travel Necessities

  • Car Seats (if driving or flying with young kids)
  • Stroller (for younger kids to navigate the resort)
  • Travel Candle (to make hotel or Airbnb cozier—if allowed)
  • Printed or Digital Maps of Resort Area — (Get the mountain app if they have one, some even track your shred! It’s also great for easy navigation)
  • Travel Insurance Documents (always a good idea for a ski trip)

Food & Drink

  • Favorite Snacks (granola bars, fruit snacks, etc.)
  • Instant Oatmeal/Soups (easy meals in case resort food is too pricey or limited)
  • Specialty Items (if you have picky eaters or dietary needs)
  • Reusable Water Bottles (to keep everyone hydrated)

Bonus Tips

  • Pre-packaged Kitchen Kits: Measure dry ingredients for favorite meals (like pancakes or cookies) and bring them in resealable bags for quick cooking in your cabin or Airbnb.
  • Ship Gear Ahead: If flying, consider shipping skis, boots, and other bulky items ahead of time to save hassle at the airport.

Day Bag for the Slopes: Pack a lightweight backpack with essentials like hand warmers, tissues, snacks, sunscreen, and spare goggles.

Skis and poles propped up outside the cabin after a day on the mountain