How to Survive a Family Skiing Break
If you’re heading to the slopes for a family ski break, there’s plenty of things you can do in advance in order to ensure you have your best trip yet. The first? Read this blog; it’s packed choc-full of handy hints and advice before you’ll appreciate before you brace yourself for an active holiday with your kids. It’s bound to be chaotic, but it’ll definitely be worth it…
So, where to start? When it comes to planning your ski break with family, it’s worth doing your research well in advance of booking. After all, there’s no point turning up to your European ski resort only to discover they don’t cater for little ones – and by that we mean in terms of food.
Deliciously fancy three-course dinners are all well and good, but is there something your children can enjoy tucking into as well? Many resorts – like France’s popular Tignes – will happily cook food for your kids, providing you bring it with you. Do keep this kind of thing in mind when it comes to hitting ‘Book’ on that online family skiing break.
Taster Sessions for Beginners
Right, let’s talk about the skiing itself. If you’re new to the hobby – and we imagine your kids, at least, might be – think about booking them in for a fun taster session before you jet off. Local dry slopes or snowdomes offer some great family-friendly lessons at reasonable prices; attending a couple of classes like this may just give your kids the confidence boost they need before hitting the real white stuff. You won’t want any on-slope tantrums, so do ease them into the hobby if at all possible.
And when you do make it to the European slopes, make sure you have the right gear. Most of your equipment will be available to hire when you arrive, but do pack essentials like good ski socks, a hat, goggles and a good thermal top for wearing close to your skin. Layering is key, too and make sure you have large pockets, as well – ideal for placing additional layers for later.
Does Your Resort Offer Childcare?
While you might prefer to take your kids with you for some serious skiing during the day, there’ll be times when you’d prefer the convenience of good, organised childcare. If, for example, you’re a beginner, you may struggle to learn as well if you’ve got kids in tow.
Make sure you check in advance if your ski resort offers a child care facility, or taster sessions (as mentioned above) to ensure they can still enjoy all that skiing has to offer without the worry of keeping up with their mum and dad. Should you require it, some resorts offer chalet-based childcare – which sees nannies visit your chalet to look after your children in the accommodation – which means you’ll know exactly where your kids are and they’ll be likely to feel more comfortable, too.
In terms of family accommodation, there’s plenty on offer. Why not choose a holiday village with self-catering apartments if you prefer to cook, or go all-out and opt for a chalet-based resort which often includes meals, too?
On a Budget?
If you’re on a budget, choose a ski resort that’s a little off the main circuit as it’ll likely be a bit cheaper. And always bring plenty of things to keep the kids entertained; books, games and magazines will ensure they’re quiet on the plane over to your chosen resort, as well as in the mornings when you’re trying to get ready. But not only that; bringing your own entertainment is bound to work out cheaper; a night or two in the chalet playing board games with you will help you create great family memories for your kids, while saving some money.
As with all family holidays, a ski break isn’t always going to be a walk in the park. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be fun. Take into account our top tips and you should have a stress-free trip to remember.
1 Comment
Dave said:
The chalet-based childcare sounds like a godsend but also a good way to encourage your kids to never speak to you once they hit their teens 😉