A family ski vacation sounds ideal, but the reality is that skiing with kids can be exhausting. It’s cold, you’re using muscles that have been dormant since last ski season, and there’s a lot of gear to keep track of.
When you add in a kid or two, things only get more complicated. Most of the time, you’ll end up lugging your kid’s ski gear (in addition to your own), and it’s nearly impossible to pass the day without someone whining about the cold or their tired legs.
However, there are ways to make a ski trip more enjoyable for the entire family. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to make your crew’s ski vacation significantly easier, so you can stress less and spend more time on the slopes.
Choose a Family-Friendly Resort
There’s a substantial difference between ski areas that actively cater to families and those that just have a few kid-friendly runs. Resorts like Keystone in Colorado and Park City Mountain in Utah consistently receive high marks for their programs for kids, family-friendly amenities, and accessible terrain. Consider factors like the child-to-instructor ratio at the ski school, as well as the number of non-ski related activities and childcare programs available.
Select a Resort Within Driving Distance
If possible, choose a ski resort that’s within driving distance. The snow in Telluride, Colorado may be tempting, but the reality is that booking flights for an entire family can be expensive, and it will likely require airport transfers or a rental car.
Opt for Accommodations with a Kitchen
When traveling with kids, a comfortable home-base goes a long way. Choosing a condo or vacation rental with a kitchen allows you to maintain some of your routine, even if you’re miles from home. You’ll save money and avoid tantrums by cooking your family’s favorite meals or sticking to traditions like Sunday morning chocolate-chip pancakes.
Consider All-Inclusive Offers
There are many elements that contribute to planning a ski vacation. In addition to lodging, you will also need lift tickets, gear rentals, transportation, and possibly airport transfers. All-inclusive offers can be a great solution. Consolidating several bookings into one can lessen the burden and potentially save you money. Explore options at your resort or hotel of choice, and consider sites like Ski.com, SnowPak, and SnowVentures for affordable, all-inclusive packages.
Buy Lift Tickets Early and in Advance
Purchasing lift tickets early can streamline your ski trip and often leads to the best prices. At some resorts, like Colorado’s Copper Mountain, you can save up to 45 percent by buying your ticket a day or more in advance.
Consider a Mega Pass
Nowadays, two major ski companies own most U.S. ski resorts. By purchasing a well-priced mega pass, you can gain access to multiple resorts for one flat fee. Instead of buying single-day lift tickets for over $100, consider investing in the Icon Base Pass for $799, allowing unlimited skiing at included resorts. The competing Epic Pass offers similar benefits with multiple resorts under one flat rate.
Enroll Kids in Ski School
You might be tempted to spend the entire day skiing together. However, depending on skill levels, this might lead to frustration. Ski schools offer programs for all ages, from tots learning to ski to teens wishing to advance their skills. Spend the morning apart and regroup around lunch to ski together as a family.
Invest in Quality Ski Gear
A budget ski jacket may seem appealing, but when out in the elements, quality matters. Opt for jackets with down filling, Gore-Tex ski pants, merino wool base layers, and high-quality ski socks to ensure everyone stays warm and comfortable on the mountain.
Pack Hand Warmers
You may have excellent gloves, but after several hours in the cold, it’s almost guaranteed that your kid’s hands will get cold. Carrying hand warmers can combat this issue. They are small, disposable, and can last up to 10 hours, making them ideal for ski days.
Utilize the Ski Valet
Lugging your family’s gear can be a hassle. Avoid the frustration by letting the ski valet handle your gear. The valet will meet you at the base of the resort, carry your equipment, and store it for you. Many hotels and resorts offer ski valet services at no additional charge.
Bring Along Snacks
While you may plan for an elaborate on-mountain lunch, hunger often strikes unexpectedly. Tuck a bag of trail mix or protein bars into pockets for those moments when the munchies hit.
Plan Your Ski Day for Everyone’s Enjoyment
Everyone has different preferences for ski runs. To keep the mood positive, plan your ski day as a family, ensuring everyone has the chance to enjoy their favorite runs. If necessary, split up for a run or two to prevent more advanced skiers from getting bored while also catering to newbies.
Take Regular Hot Chocolate Breaks
Food, and more specifically sugar, serve as great motivators, especially for younger kids. Keep spirits high with regular breaks throughout the day, and when motivation wanes, the prospect of hot chocolate will do wonders to uplift everyone.
