Are you planning your first winter ski trip with children and don't know what to take? Good preparation and packing all the necessary things will allow the whole family to fully enjoy active recreation.
To make this task easier for you, we have prepared some practical tips. We advise you on what to pack for skiing, what equipment to take and how to dress your child for the slope.
What to take for skiing, or a few words about the necessary equipment
The first question that arises in the context of what to take skiing with children is hardware issue. Should I buy a new or used one for my kids, or is it better to rent one? Opinions on this subject are divided and parents must consider all of them themselves for and against:
New ski equipment is quite expensive, and kids outgrow it at a breakneck pace. On the other hand, used equipment, e.g. from a second-hand shop or rental shop, is cheaper, but often worn-out, uncomfortable and unhygienic (especially ski boots and helmets). If a toddler is just starting his skiing adventure, most parents decide to rent all children's ski equipment to see if the child will like skiing on the slope.
What to pack for skiingwhat equipment is necessary for a beginner child:
- Ski helmet + goggles: in Poland and many European countries, children under 16 are obliged to wear a helmet when riding. In turn, goggles protect the eyes against wind, sun and snow particles - they are matched to the shape of the face (comfort) and the helmet.
- Ski-boots: it's best to remove the insert and try it on your child. If you decide to buy shoes from a rental store, make sure they are clean and the inside of the shoe is not too deformed by other children's feet.
- Skis: the basic answer to the question – what to take skiing? – there are, of course, the skis themselves. They should be adjusted in length to the child's height (those for beginner children reach approximately the height of the armpit/shoulder).
- Ski poles: However, they are not what you should pack on your skis because they are not useful for beginner skiers.
How to dress a child for skiing, to be warm, functional and comfortable?
When we think about what to take skiing, in addition to ski equipment, it is also necessary on the slope appropriate outfit. How to dress a child for skiing, what to pack for a trip?
- Waterproof, breathable suit or kit: e.g. ski jacket + ski pants. How to dress a child for skiing? Many parents choose a ski jacket combined with high-waisted ski pants (necessarily with suspenders). Thanks to the two-piece design, it is easier for a child to use the toilet or eat something, for example fast in a restaurant next to the slope (just take off your jacket). Overalls also have their supporters, so parents must choose what will be more comfortable for their child.
When considering what to pack for skiing, remember that outerwear for the slope must have a waterproof and breathable membrane and medium filling thickness (so that the child does not overheat while skiing).
- Thermal underwear: e.g. a long-sleeved blouse and leggings are something worth taking skiing with a child. How to dress a child for skiing? We wear such underwear, e.g. made of merino, directly under the jacket and ski pants. What to pack for skiing - you will need at least: 2 sets of thermoactive underwear;
- Light fleece/wool sweatshirt: It will be useful if you want to properly dress your child for skiing on an extremely cold day. We put it on as an additional layer under the jacket (we put on thermal underwear first). Let's pack at least: 2 of this type of sweatshirts;
- Long ski socks: they are warm and have additional reinforcements in critical places. What to take for skiing - take 2-3 pairs of such socks (they can be washed and dried on a regular basis);
- Thin balaclava under a ski helmet;
- Waterproof gloves: are what we need to pack for skiing (preferably 2-3 pairs). How to dress a child for skiing - on extremely cold days, we can add additional, thin gloves or chemical heaters to waterproof gloves.
