Maybe you grew up on the slopes. Maybe you discovered your love for skiing as an adult. But few things are as special as being able to share your love for skiing with your family.

The fresh mountain air, blue skies, and exhilarating feeling of actually skiing down the bunny slope: Who wouldn’t want to experience that? However, any weathered parent will tell you that every successful family trip starts with a good plan.

That is especially true when you are transporting your children to a high-altitude setting with below-freezing temperatures to learn a sport with strange boots and lots of layers. But the challenge can be worth the trouble if you keep in mind a few tips.

Keep everyone comfortable

If you are bringing little ones to the slopes for the first time, it’s critical that you ensure everyone stays comfortable, ie. warm, but not too warm, and dry. That’s not easy when you are outside for hours at a time on a mountain covered in snow. That’s why layering is so important. Be sure everyone has a base layer, a mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer along with appropriate socks, gloves, and headwear.

If you are unsure if you have the right clothing, check with a trusted expert at a local outdoor recreation and apparel store like Alabama Outdoors before you leave for your trip. Last-minute clothing purchases in a resort town can be pretty pricey, and you want everyone to feel prepared the first time you head to the lodge.

Pick the right ski resort

Any vacation with kids can be tricky, especially when it comes to making sure everyone has fun without draining your bank account. Skiing can get expensive, especially if you are outfitting an entire family in the clothes and equipment, getting lessons for the newbies, and buying passes to the mountain.
And, if, despite your best efforts, one or two of your crew doesn’t enjoy skiing, you need to be staying at a resort or in a town offering fun activities off the slopes.

That’s why it pays off to do your research when it comes to resorts. For instance, some offer deals where kids can ski for free. TravelingMom.com has compiled a state-by-state list of resorts offering children-ski-free deals. Travel+Leisure Magazine also has compiled a list of family-friendly resorts.

Get your head right

A ski vacation can be a logistical nightmare with or without kids. Weather delays, illnesses, the potential for injuries, and all the clothes that have to be managed make it challenging even for adults.

That’s why it’s important to remind yourself that children may not make it as long as you would on the mountain. You will likely have to be more flexible in terms of when you go skiing (not at peak times) when you leave, and how much time you budget for getting your gear and getting from Point A to Point B. Finally, invest in a day of lessons through the ski school. Even if you are a black-diamond skier, you may not be the best person to teach your child. Chances are your children will learn more and behave better for a ski instructor.

A well-planned family ski trip can help create wonderful family memories and, hopefully, launch a family tradition that allows you to #BeOutdoors with the ones you treasure the most.

 

Planning a ski trip this season? Find what you need for your ski trip or winter adventures here! We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors