Kids Ski Trip Packing List - What you need to pack for a weeks ski holiday

Watch our short video where we run through the key elements of the packing list and show you the kids ski clothing and accessories.

Clothing is the bulk of what you’ll be packing, and the golden rule is layering. We'll start from the ski clothing your children will wear next to their skin and work outwards.

Getting the right ski socks is possibly the most important part of packing for skiing. My tip would be to invest in two or three pairs of good quality kids ski socks that fit your child's feet well rather than five pairs of cheap socks. Ski boots are padded but a poorly fitting pair of ski socks will chafe and rub your kid's feet throughout the day. 

Look for ski socks with smooth toe seams. For beginners, fully cushioned socks are a good idea and as they get more proficient swap these for thinner socks with padding around just the shin and sole. For one week we would recommend packing:

• 2 pairs of good quality kids ski socks

You wear base layers next to your skin, on top of your pants, knickers and bra. Base layers work to both keep you warm and also help to wick away sweat to prevent you getting damp and cold later in the day. Choose synthetic or merino fabrics for your kids ski thermals. Avoid cotton as it absorbs sweat and doesn't wick it away from your skin. For one week we recommend packing:

• 2-3 thermal tops
• 1-2 pairs of bottoms

If your child is a tween/teen they will probably sweat more than younger children so I would go for more tops than bottoms and for younger children equal amounts of tops and bottoms.

As the name suggests this is what you wear on top of your base layer and under your ski outerwear. Normally, kids will only wear a mid layer on their top. A fleece jumper or jacket is ideal. Make sure it's not too thick so it's  comfortable to layer over and avoid hoods as these get in the way. For one week we recommend packing:

• 2 fleece jumpers or jackets

Your kid's ski jacket and trousers are the outer layer. Or you can choose an all-in-one which is a great option for younger children. Whatever you go for make sure the clothing is both insulated and waterproof. The advantage of the jacket and trouser combination is that you can use the jacket as your child's regular winter coat outside of the ski holiday. However, all-in-one suits are warmer and a great option for toddlers rolling around in the snow!

For one week we recommend packing:

• 1 ski jacket
• 1 pair of ski trousers/salopettes

Or

• 1 kids ski suit/all-in-one

If your child is very slim look for ski trousers with braces (aka salopettes). If you are wanting to keep the cost of kids ski clothing down then second hand ski jackets and trousers are a great option.

Don't skimp on the gloves that are going to keep your kid's hands warm - cold hands can ruin a ski holiday. Look for gloves or mittens that are both insulated and waterproof. Mittens are best for toddlers and young children and also older children who feel the cold. We find that most children over six years of age prefer to wear ski gloves rather than ski mittens as they are more dexterous.

For one week we recommend packing:

• 1 pair of kids ski gloves or mittens with wrist straps so they don't drop them

Sunglasses might sound appealing but goggles are much more practical and comfortable with a helmet. Look for goggles which are classed as Cat 3 which means they will provide sun protection but not be too dark to see through when the sun goes in and it starts to snow. Also, buy kids ski goggles with a double lens which will help to avoid the googles steaming up when your kids are wearing them.

If you're lucky enough to have sunny weather when you ski then your kids will want a pair of sunglasses. When the sun reflects off the white snow it is very bright so it is a good idea to carry a pair of sunglasses for lunch time stops.

For one week we recommend packing:

• 1 pair of ski goggles (Cat 3)
• 1 pair of sunglasses (ideally wraparound style with a Cat 3 lens)

Balaclavas and neck gaiters for skiing need to be made from a fairly thin material. For children the balaclava will need to fit under a helmet. Balaclavas are great for cold conditions and when worn with goggles can protect your child's entire face from the elements. A neck gaiter will act like a draft excluder and stop chilly drafts from blowing down your neck but can also be pulled up over your nose and mouth if the wind picks up.

For one week we recommend packing:

• 1 balaclava
• 1 neck gaiter

For children on school ski trips a small rucksack is often required so they can carry their own water bottle and packed lunch. The key with this rucksack is that it's not too big and it's fairly slimline so children can sit on the chairlifts comfortably without being pushed forwards by the bag.

Another small item often overlooked is ski ties. Particularly on school trips named ski ties can save an awful lot of time by helping children collecting their own skis at the start and end of the day.

For one week we recommend packing:

• 1 small rucksack
• 1 water bottle
• Snacks
• Ski ties

Also known as "ski hardware" you'll almost certainly be renting skis, boot, poles and a helmet. The ski fitting will be determined by your height and ability and the ski boots by your shoe size. To make hiring in Europe easier take your height in cm and your shoe size in a European size.

We've added a section at the bottom of the downloadable ski trip packing list to remind you to take this information.

Off the slopes your kids will want to change into some comfortable clothing. You don't need to pack an outfit for each day as they'll only be out of their ski clothing for a few hours every evening. Here's what we recommend you pack, the clothes you travelled in plus:

• 1 jumper
• 1 pair of trousers
• 2 tops
• 1 pair of indoor shoes
• 1 hat and pair of spare gloves
• 7 pairs of underwear 
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of waterproof shoes or snow boots
• Night clothes and toiletries

• Label everything: Gloves, goggles, jackets - everything. Kids misplace gear easily.
• Print the checklist: run through it with your child when packing.
• Use packing cubes: Great for keeping outfits and gear organised.
• Encourage ownership: Give kids age-appropriate responsibility for packing and caring for their gear. It builds independence and avoids “I forgot my gloves!” moments.

At Little Adventure Shop, we specialise in high-quality ski gear for children. From merino ski socks and thermals to waterproof outerwear and ski gloves, everything is designed to keep kids warm, dry and happy on the slopes.

Explore our full range of Kids Ski Clothing & Accessories