The Ultimate Guide to Happy Family Skiing

A snow vacation can be the ultimate fun-filled family break. Yet, if you were to ask most parents who have attempted this to honestly recall their family ski holiday experiences, many recounts are likely to resemble something a little like this.

It seems a rational equation really; when you put some little cold bodies in puffy coats and onesies and add some awkward boots… some heightened moments of frustration are to be expected, and that’s all before you’ve actually hit the slopes with skis!

But guess what… with a little organisation and some preemptive thinking, a ski holiday can and should be fantastic fun for all. Therefore, as many families start to think about booking their next ski holiday, here are some tried and tested tips to ensure happy mums, dads and little people on the slopes.

1. Don’t Skimp

There is nothing like venturing into the wilderness with a tent but skiing with the family is no time to rough it. Let’s face it, skiing is a workout! Backing up for day 2 on the snow (let alone day 3 or 5) will be a downhill disaster without an Ultimate Luxury Catered Chalet, or a more family-friendly, Relaxed Catered Chalet to unwind in at the end of a long day. There are also some fabulous serviced accommodation solutions if that is more your style or if you are travelling with your own staff. However, for the ultimate stress-free break, do the math: shopping and cooking for tired and extra hungry kids when you are tired and hungry yourself is not a relaxing holiday! Let someone else do the hard work and instead make time to unwind at the end of the day. Here are all of Consensio’s family-friendly ski chalets and apartments to consider, including Ultimate and Relaxed Catered Chalets where you can really put your feet up.

2. Be One Step Ahead

Organisation is key! If you’re not using the expertise of a travel agent or have a PA to manage your stay, then make sure you have done your research and booked everything ahead of time… this means everything: lift passes, lessons, equipment, transport, childcare, and even a table for lunch. The aim of the game is to avoid missing out or waiting around unnecessarily in the cold. It is also important to note that services like childcare and private snowsports lessons do sell out and if you don’t book them in plenty of time, you will be unable to book them closer to your holiday.

3. Try an Indoor Slope at Home

If possible, seek out lessons on a dry slope like at Chiswick’s Skieasy London Ski and Snowboard Centre. It will give your kids a quick preview of what to expect and a massive boost of confidence. Come time for your holiday, they will be ready to show off everything they have already mastered.

4. Dress Your Children Appropriately

You would think this would go without saying, but sometimes the obvious needs to be said! Layer up little ones all snug and warm with easy-to-add and remove articles of clothing. Many thin layers and a good ski jacket are much better than just one thick layer.

5. Always Wear a Helmet

A helmet is an essential piece of equipment for learners of any age (or for anyone for that matter).  At many ski schools, helmets are not optional so don’t take the risk of showing up without one or you may run the risk of being refused lessons. Obviously, the need to protect the heads of your young and fearless will be of utmost importance, especially as we all know, that little ones often don’t demonstrate the same sense of parental caution!

6. Consider Booking a Nanny

This is not a necessity for all families and is largely dependent on the age of your children, but just remember – this is your holiday too! Come Monday morning when you’re back in the office, the last thing you want is to be pining for the break you haven’t had. It’s worth noting that bringing your own Nanny or using an in-house chalet Nanny over opting for a creche or kids club, will allow for more flexibility in your schedule. For example, enjoy après ski drinks without the countdown of a clock to collection time.

7. Never forget the Power of Chocolate

If all else fails, resort to chocolate.  Stuff a few mini bars of chocolate in your ski jacket for the day as it makes for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up heals all bumps and bruises and possesses the power to diffuse any heated moment. When cold and tired on the last lift of the day, a little chocolatey treat is bound to crack a smile with children of all ages (parents too!).