Planning a family snow trip is full of excitement but can also feel overwhelming. Whether you are headed to the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, or simply to create unforgettable snowmen, knowing what to pack can make a huge difference. In this post, we’ll dive into the packing essentials that will help you create a memorable and smooth experience for everyone.
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What to Pack for a Family Snow Trip
Snow Jacket:
My favorite snow jackets for kids are actually from Zara. I always buy them in the end-of-season sale the year before or during their Black Friday sale. Not only are they fashionable but they keep the kids really warm as well. I preferred my son's jacket from Zara over his Columbia jacket every time!
Snow Shoes:
Shoes are so important for the snow! If you have ever been in the snow with the wrong shoes you know! It’s pretty hard to have fun when your toes are freezing into popsicles! For my kids, I always check places like Marshalls first for snow shoes. But since I live in San Diego the supply is limited and goes by fast! If you have multiple children try to keep the colors of everything gender-neutral so they can pass on their snow gear to the next child! When I haven't been able to find snow shoes in person I buy these. They come in multiple colors as well as plain black and have a drawstring at the top to ensure that no snow gets into their boots.
I have had these Sperrys for about 4 years now. I love them for winter and fall outfits. But I only recommend them for talking around town not actually playing in the snow. They keep the water out but for hours in the snow, my feet still end up cold. I wear them all the time during the winter! The downside is they can be a little slippery if you are walking on ice (but I mean it is ice).
To play in the snow I prefer these. They are insulated, waterproof, and slip resistant. These actually keep my feet warm. Plus they are still cute!
These are so helpful!! They provide so much traction to make sure you're not slipping around on the ice! Such a big help for you and the kids. Especially when you need to carry the little ones, that can be pretty scary without these.
Socks
Going along with warm feet I always make sure to put wool socks on everyone to make sure all those little toes are warm. Hot Feet make the best thermal socks for cold weather.
Snow Bib
I have used these every year since my first son was one year old. Because of that, I have only had to buy one new one each year in the next size up. And I still have one for each of my 4 kids. The other kids are able to use the old ones because I buy them in black or white.
Beanie
Make sure your beanies are fleece or sherpa lined! Not only are these super cute but they will keep your head and more importantly your ears warm. When you have a regular beanie the wind will go through and still allow you to be cold. And you can match with your little ones. And they have a million and one different colors to choose from to make sure they match all your snow outfits!
Gloves Aka Mittens
Not going to lie gloves can be a pain in the butt for toddlers and babies! They can fall off so easily and if you get gloves instead of mittens then you are going to spend the whole day trying to get their fingers in each individual hole just for them to fall off in 5 min. These gloves are mitten-style and have a strap at the wrist to make them fit tightly on your baby's hands. They also go pretty high up on their wrist which helps keep them warm and makes sure there are no gaps in the kid's clothing for snow to enter into.
Make sure to put them on before their jacket to help them stay on.
Scarf
I use these scarfs for my kids. They come in a few colors that are great for both boys and girls. I love that it's an infinity scarf so it's easy to put on them without it unraveling or getting in the way.
Thermals
Thermals are so amazing for the snow! Before kids, I would just wear whatever and would be dying from the cold. But then I bought thermals and my life changed. I'm from southern California so this was exciting for me! So yes get thermals if you do not have any because you will actually be able to enjoy playing in the snow for hours without fear of your butt literally freezing off.
When we go to play in the snow, I put on a pair of sweats and a thin sweatshirt, or fleece footie pjs, over the thermals. This will keep them warm without being super bulky. Depending on your child this might be enough. I'm always worried about them being cold and it is a lot easier to take layers off than to be cold and not have the layers to add on. My son actually took off his snow jacket while playing in the snow because the extra layers were able to keep him warm.
These are the thermals I use and once again I love them! They keep me so warm I can be in the snow for hours with no problem. When we go to Utah and it's 20 degrees out I can walk around with just these jeans and a sweater and I will be fine.
Snow Toys
Don’t forget your snow toys!! Arn't these sleds so much fun!! Sleds can be a little more expensive to buy while out in the snow. It also saves a lot of money by having your own because you can go sled on any snowy hill you find compared to the snowboarding/ sledding locations. These ones are so much fun!! The good thing too is that they will stand out from the crowd of blue circle sleds that everyone buys there. The best part about it being inflatable is the amount of space that you save from not having to pack up a bulky plastic sled. Just don’t forget to pack a pump!
I always love to bring sand toys as well! They are perfect for toddlers to play in the snow. These snow toys allow you to make snowballs easily. Make sure to keep them out of sight of the overly competitive adults too.
I hope you found some insight on what you should add t
Choosing the Right Clothing
Layers are essential for staying warm and comfortable in the snow. Start with moisture-wicking base layers. A great choice is long-sleeve tops and long underwear made from synthetic materials or merino wool. For instance, brands like Columbia and Under Armour offer excellent options that keep sweat away from the skin.
Next, include insulating layers like fleece or down jackets. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, 84% of winter sports enthusiasts say insulation is a top priority in their gear. Finally, a waterproof and windproof outer layer is crucial. Look for snow pants that offer flexibility for easy movement, especially for kids.
Don't overlook accessories! Warm hats, gloves, and thermal socks are essential. Consider mittens that clip onto jackets to prevent loss—kids have a knack for misplacing mittens!
Footwear Matters
Footwear can greatly impact your kids' enjoyment of the trip. Invest in waterproof and insulated snow boots. The best boots will ensure dry and warm feet, allowing children to frolic in the snow for hours. Some recommended brands are Sorel and North Face.
When choosing boots, ensure they have solid traction to help prevent slips. You might also want to pack extra thick thermal socks to maximize comfort. According to research from the National Safety Council, proper footwear can cut down slips and falls by up to 40%!
Gear Up for Fun Activities
If your family enjoys activities like skiing or snowboarding, packing the right gear is vital. Ensure you have helmets, goggles, and any other necessary equipment ready to go. If you do not own gear yet, consider local rentals. This approach can save you money because rental costs are often lower than the expense of buying new equipment.
For families who love snow tubing, bringing your own tube is a must, especially if the rental options are limited at your destination. Research local snow parks ahead of time so you know what to expect and what to pack.
Entertainment Essentials
Not every moment will be spent outside. Plan for indoor activities, particularly if the weather turns. Bring along favorite board games, card games, or a stack of books to share during evenings.
Consider packing art supplies for some winter-themed crafts. A friendly competition to create the best snowflakes or snowman drawings can be a fun and engaging family activity that fosters creativity while indoors.
Snacks and Hydration
Outdoor activities can make anyone hungry, especially children. Pack snacks that travel well, like granola bars, trail mix, and dried fruit. These options are lightweight but satisfying, keeping kids energized.
Hydration is equally important, even in cold weather. Always bring reusable water bottles for each family member. It’s also great to have a thermos filled with hot cocoa—this treat can warm everyone up during breaks!
First Aid and Safety Items
While everyone hopes for a perfect trip, it’s wise to prepare for minor accidents. A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any of your children's necessary medications is essential.
Also, don’t skip sunscreen, even in winter! Believe it or not, up to 80% of UV rays can reflect off the snow. This means you want to protect your family from potential sunburn during those fun-filled days in the snow.
Tech and Photography Gear
Capture memories during your trip by bringing a camera or a smartphone equipped with chargers and extra memory cards. Whether it’s a silly fall or a triumphant run on skis, these moments become treasured memories.
Portable chargers are a smart addition to your pack since they keep devices charged during long days. Include a book or an e-reader as well for cozy evenings in your accommodation.
Laundry and Post-Trip Care
After all the snowy fun, expect dirty clothes to add up quickly. Use laundry bags or resealable bags to keep wet or dirty items separate from clean clothes. This simple organization tip saves a lot of hassle later.
Once back home, wash all snow trip clothing and gear promptly. Proper cleaning preserves the quality of your gear and prepares it for future adventures.
Wrapping Up
Packing for a family snow trip requires thoughtful preparation, but these essentials can make the experience enjoyable and less stressful. From layering the right clothing to planning for entertainment and snacks, adequate preparation is crucial for making the most of your snowy getaway.
The laughter and memories made on these trips are often cherished for years. So, embrace every moment together in the snow and feel confident knowing you've packed wisely!
Now that you have a detailed guide for your snow adventure, it’s time to start your planning and make every chilly activity count. Happy packing!
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