What better way to spend a week with the family could there be than a ski holiday? It’s a chance to get some screen-free exercise in an awe-inspiring natural setting, to bond with those close to you, and to push yourself to develop a new, rewarding skill.
If you want to maximise the fun you get from your ski holidays, however, a little bit of planning might be in order. Let’s take a look at what that planning might consist of.
Choosing the Right Family-Friendly Resort
Getting the destination right matters a great deal, especially for those embarking on their very first ski adventure. Look for popular resorts with plenty of gentle beginner slopes, and kid-friendly ski schools with English-speaking instructors. Val Thorens and Méribel are excellent options in France. Lech, in Austria, might appeal, too.
If you’re comparing different packages, make sure that you’re factoring in all of the freebies. Sometimes, things like equipment hire are thrown in – but you might not always need them.
Packing and Preparation Made Easy
Compose a checklist for packing well before you set out. It should include plenty of warm clothing. You’ll need three layers for each person. These are your thermal undergarments, your warming middle layers, and your waterproof ski jacket.
You might choose to take your own gear, but if you’re new, hiring will give you the chance to try out the various options and see what impact they have on your experience. One piece of gear that’s indispensable is the ski helmet. Make sure that everything fits snugly, and you’ll minimise the likelihood of problems.
Keeping Kids Happy On and Off the Slopes
If you’re taking the kids on holiday, then you’ll want to be sure that they’re occupied throughout the day. The availability of childcare facilities might help to ensure that adults have time to go skiing on their own. On the other hand, these holidays are also a great way to come together as a family. As such, you might look for après-ski activities to share together.
Navigating Common Challenges
When taking children overseas, you’ll want to anticipate a number of potential hurdles. Make sure that you have alternative options available for children who can’t stomach Alpine food. Make sure that every aspect of your trip, including airport transfers and altitude sickness, is anticipated. You might also make flexibility part of your planning ethos. Unexpected problems, like injuries, needn’t ruin your holiday – provided that you’re appropriately insured.
Ready for the Slopes?
Most families can get by on the slopes without having any prior experience of skiing. Guided lessons while you’re out there will allow you to get up to speed relatively quickly. Above all, make sure that you have the right equipment, and that the resort is suitable for your level of skill!
