Family Ski Packing List: The Ultimate Guide for Families in 2026

Last Updated on 4 January 2026

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Are you ready to hit the slopes with your family this season? If you are, then you need your family ski packing list before you go.

We’re still deciding on where to go for our family ski trip – maybe Austria or France – but wherever we go, we’re bound to have a great time.

As a parent who loves snowy adventures with my kids, I know how important it is to be prepared, even though there have been a few times when we’ve forgotten something.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through all the must-have items you need on your family ski packing list, as well as a handy packing list guide to download, so you can focus on making memories when you hit the slopes.

Let’s read on to find out more!

Skis and ski poles on a snowy mountain. Family skiing packing list. Photo by Valerii Ladomyriak on Unsplash — Photo by Valerii Ladomyriak on Unsplash

Ski Clothing for the Whole Family

Having a family ski packing list has saved me from forgetting important items when we’re away. I usually compile my list a few weeks before a trip and slowly set things aside, so when it comes to packing, I have everything we need.

Here are the essential ski clothing items I bring for my family and what will work for yours:

Layering Basics

Layering basics: base layers and mid-layers
- I start every family ski packing list with quality base layers. They keep my family and I warm without bulk. I love these thermal sets for my kids. While we wear this and this on our ski trips.
- Mid-layers like fleeces or light down jackets are great for trapping heat. We have several, but our favourites are this for the kids and this and this for us adults.
Waterproof ski jackets and trousers
- For my girls, they have this ski snowsuit. I prefer the all-in-one outfits as it keeps them nice and warm on those chilly mornings. For ourselves, I have this ski jacket and snow pants from Jack Wolfskin. I like that they both have the RECCO system included in them. My partner wears this ski jacket and these snow pants. When you’re adding these items to your family ski packing list, make sure to look for waterproof ski clothing with taped seams.
Gloves and mittens
- I pack these waterproof ski gloves for my eldest, while my youngest wears these ski mittens. For myself, I wear these waterproof gloves while my other half wears these ski mittens.
- Don’t forget to bring a spare pair or two in your ski bag.
Ski socks and snow boots
- Make sure you add moisture-wicking ski socks to your family ski packing list. I always bring at least two pairs per day for each person of us. There’s nothing worse than having a little one, or yourself, with cold feet. Bring adjustable snow boots as well to keep little feet warm.
Neck warmers, balaclavas, and hats
- Each of these items makes such a great impact, especially when it’s cold. I pack neck warmers and balaclavas for everyone, plus wool hats for après-ski.

Every time we plan to go on a skiing trip, I always double-check my family ski packing list to see that I have everything I need. If you want a printable version, scroll down to check out my printable ski checklist; it’s saved us more times than I can count.

Ski Equipment and Safety Gear

Three sets of skis on the snow. Photo by Anne Nygård on Unsplash — Photo by Anne Nygård on Unsplash

When we’re going on a family ski trip, we always rent out skis and ski boots for our girls. Their feet are still growing, so there’s no point in us buying something that might only wear for one season. With those taken care of, I only have to ensure the rest is on my family ski packing list:

Helmets and goggles for all ages
- My girls have this helmet. I wear this one from POC, and my partner wears this one. To read more about ski helmets, check out this guide.
- Goggles with anti-fog lenses are a must. We have several pairs, but these from Dragon seem to be a firm favourite in our household.
Back protectors and wrist guards
- If you’ve got little daredevils, add back protectors and wrist guards to your family ski packing list.
Safety reflectors and trackers
- I stick safety reflectors on the kids’ jackets and pop an Apple AirTag in their ski backpack.

Packing for Comfort and Convenience

There’s nothing like a long day on the slopes to make you appreciate the little comforts. When I’m putting my family ski packing list together, I always take the following things:

Backpacks
- A roomy ski backpack comes in handy when we’re away. I like to use it to pack spare clothes, snacks, and our first aid kit.
Sun cream, lip balm, and after-sun care
- It’s easy to forget about the sun glare when you’re on a mountain, but it gets intense, so I pack factor 50 sun cream and lip balm for everyone, making sure to reapply often.
- After-sun lotion.
Snacks, water bottles, and thermos flasks
- Hungry kids = grumpy kids. I take ski snacks (think flapjacks, dried fruit) and water bottles.
- This thermos flask has become my favourite on our adventures.
Hand warmers
- Hand warmers are something I like to place inside our pockets for some much-needed warmth on cold days.
Entertainment
- I like to pack a deck of cards, some travel games, and download films for the evenings.

Health, Safety, and First Aid Essentials

Someone putting a plaster on their finger. Photo by Diana Polekhina on Unsplash — Photo by Diana Polekhina on Unsplash

First aid kit checklist
- I always pack a first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, and pain relief. Mine isn’t big, but it has what I need in it.
Medications and allergy supplies
- Don’t forget any medication if anyone needs it.
Travel insurance documents
- Print your travel insurance policy and add it to your ski trip checklist. I keep digital copies on my phone too.
Emergency contacts and local medical info
- Write down any emergency contacts, your accommodation, and the number for local medical services. Pop it in your ski backpack.
Tips for keeping kids safe on the slopes
- We review slope safety every morning, including sticking together, staying in sight, and using ski passes with emergency info written on the back.

Extras for Families with Young Children

Baby carriers and toddler harnesses
- A sturdy baby carrier is a back-saver. I also used to bring this toddler harness for busy resort days.
Nappies, wipes, and changing kits
- Don’t forget nappies (if needed), wipes, and a portable changing kit. Mountain bathrooms aren’t always nearby.
Favourite comfort items (teddies, blankets)
- I like to bring a few favourite home items when we go away, like a cuddly teddy or a storybook.
Child-friendly sun protection
- I always pack factor 50 sunscreen and kids-sized sunglasses.

Family Ski Packing List

Final Thoughts on Family Ski Packing List

Packing for a family ski trip doesn’t have to be a stressful undertaking. With this detailed checklist, you’ll be ready for anything the mountain throws your way. I love a checklist, and with a growing family, I need to make sure I never forget anything before I go away; this family ski packing list ensures that I don’t.

Download your printable packing list and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure on the slopes.

For more outdoor inspiration, check out our related guides:

Happy skiing!

Have you found this family ski packing list useful? What else should I add to the checklist? What can’t you go without on your snow holidays? Share your thoughts in the comments below!