Family Ski Trip Packing List

Planning a family ski trip? This comprehensive packing list will help you prepare for a stress-free and fun ski holiday.

If you’re planning your first family ski trip, working out what to pack can be overwhelming. You don’t want to ruin the holiday because you forgot something essential – like thermal underwear!

Because yes, packing the right gear can make all the difference in ensuring everyone stays warm, comfortable, and ready for adventure on the slopes.

Warning – you cannot pack light for a family ski trip! We always have LOADS of luggage with us! You’ll need ski gear, warm layers and apres-ski gear and that’s before you think about helmets, goggles, skis and boots!

Booking accommodation with a washing machine and dryer can help you pack a little lighter as you can wash thermals, fleeces, socks etc as you go. But still, be prepared that you will have a lot of luggage!

We’ve taken ski trips a couple of times a year for the past few years, so we’ve got the packing thing down pat now. Here are my recommendations on what to pack to help you prepare for a stress-free and enjoyable ski holiday.

Clothing & Outerwear

Skiing obviously involves cold temperatures and wet conditions, and nothing will ruin a day on the slopes quicker than someone being cold and wet and miserable. Layering is key to dressing for skiing and staying warm and dry.

You need good quality waterproof ski jacket and pants, plus essential layers underneath.

Waterproof Ski Jacket & Pants – Essential for staying warm and dry in snowy conditions.
Base Layers (Thermal Tops & Bottoms) – Moisture-wicking thermals help regulate body temperature and keep sweat away from the skin. We have always used the Uniqlo HEATTECH range.
Mid-Layers (Fleece or Wool Sweaters) – Provides insulation and retains heat without adding too much bulk. The type depends on your preference – my daughter and I wear roll-neck microfleeces whereas my son prefers one with a zip at the neck to open if he gets too hot.
Ski Socks (Wool or Synthetic Blend) – Don’t just use any old socks. Ski socks are specially designed to provide warmth, comfort, and support while skiing or snowboarding. They are typically made from wool or synthetic fibres that wick moisture and offer cushioning to enhance your experience on the slopes.
Neck Gaiter or Balaclava – There’s nothing more miserable than a cold face when you’re skiing down the mountain or stuck on a windy chair lift. Whether you opt for a neck gaiter or a full balaclava will depend on the time of year or temperature. In winter I always opt for a balaclava under my helmet now.
Waterproof Gloves or Mittens – Cold hands will quickly ruin your day on the slopes. Insulated and waterproof gloves are crucial for keeping hands warm and spirits high. Mittens are warmer than gloves if, like me, you have bad circulation.
Inner Gloves – Inner gloves or thermal liners can really help to keep your hands warm in colder conditions. For me they are a game changer, particularly as I regularly remove my ski mittens to take photos or check the map on my phone.
Hat or Beanie – When skiing you will be wearing a helmet, but you’ll be glad to take it off and slip on a cozy hat as you come in off the slopes or stop for a hot chocolate.
Goggles – To protect your eyes from snow glare and harsh UV rays.
Hand warmers – If you suffer from cold hands, always have one of these in your pocket. You can pop them inside your mittens or gloves and they will feel warmer immediately. I always put them in my kids ski jackets when they go off to ski lessons too so they can open them up during the day if they need.

Father and son on ski gondola with ski equipment.

Ski Gear & Equipment

A lot of people choose to rent equipment, particularly if you are new to skiing or don’t ski very often.

We have bought the kids their own helmets. We figured it works out cheaper over time as they’re not that expensive to buy. They also don’t take up much room in the suitcase as you can stuff them with clothes.

My husband and I have our own skis, boots and poles. Having your own boots can be a game changer vs renting them as they are so much more comfortable. However, they are expensive and we now also travel with a ski bag and two boot bags on top of our other suitcases.

Ski Helmet – Safety first! Helmets protect against head injuries and keep heads warm. I would never consider anyone in my family skiing without one.
Skis, Boots & Poles – or snowboard and boots.
Ski Passes & Lift Tickets – Often you pick these up when you arrive at the ski resort. If you already have yours, don’t forget to pack them!

Apres-Ski & Casual Wear

After a long day on the slopes, you’re going to want to slip into something comfortable. Most ski resorts are casual in the evenings – jeans, sweaters and snow boots are the go-to. You can leave your sequins behind!

If the village you are staying in has snow underfoot, make sure you have waterproof snow boots with a good grip for walking around the village.

Casual Sweaters & Jeans
Comfortable Boots (Waterproof) – Useful for walking around the village.
Spare waterproof jacket – you can just wear your ski jacket in the evenings of course, however we always have a separate winter jacket each. If it has been snowing all day and your ski jacket is soaking wet, it can be miserable having to put it on again in the evening to go out.
Hat, scarf and gloves – for walking to and from the ski lifts or around the village.
Swimsuits – Many ski resorts have hot tubs, pools, or spas.
Warm Pajamas – Cozy sleepwear for cold nights.

Toiletries & Skincare

Cold, dry air and high altitudes require extra skin protection.

Sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher) – Sun exposure is strong in snowy conditions. You don’t want to end up with those awful skiers goggle marks!
Lip Balm with SPF – Lips can get chapped very quickly from the wind and cold when you’re on the mountain. Put one in everyone’s ski jacket and remind them to apply it liberally and often.
Moisturizer – Help prevent dry skin caused by cold weather and also indoor heating systems.
First Aid Kit – Includes essentials like band-aids, ibuprofen, and blister pads. If your kids suffer from travel sickness, pack some travel sickness medication too. The journey up to a ski resort is inevitably long and winding.

Other Essentials

Here are extra must-haves:

Extra Mittens & Socks – Kids lose or soak their gloves frequently. Always have a spare pair handy!
Snacks & Water Bottles – Keep energy levels up throughout the day. I always carry snacks or put one in my kids’ pockets if they’re going off for ski lessons.
Small Backpack – When we ski with our kids, one of us always has a backpack to carry a water bottle and other essentials like snacks and tissues. Inevitably someone is always hungry or thirsty when you are at the furthest point from a restaurant!

Tech & Extras

Phone & Charger
Portable Power Bank – Ensures devices stay charged on the go.
Travel adaptor – if you are skiing in a different country or region from your own.
GoPro or Camera – Perfect for recording action-packed moments.
Entertainment for Downtime – Books, tablets, or travel games for cozy evenings indoors.

Final Tips for Packing

Use Packing Cubes – Keeps everything organized and easy to find.
Label Kids’ Gear – Helps prevent lost gloves, jackets, or helmets.
Check the Weather Forecast – Adjust your packing list based on expected conditions.

I hope this packing list helps you get ready to hit the slopes with confidence. Have an amazing time making winter memories with your family!