We have been away a couple of times this year, which is unusual for us, and next year we have a big adventure in progress. However, one thing I would love to be able to do is take the kids skiing, as it is something we have never done before.
They were both due to go skiing with the school but unfortunately Covid hit and since then they have not really wanted to do it as a school trip but would prefer more going skiing as a family trip.
Skiing with your family for the first time can be an adventure packed with fun, laughter, and memories, but skiing with teenagers comes with its own unique set of challenges. Having teenagers is great but they still need a little coaxing into doing the basics as they just don’t always remember.
Then there also comes the challenges of balancing everyone’s skill levels, ensuring everyone stays warm, and even finding ways to keep teens engaged can be tricky. But with some planning and a bit of flexibility, you can set yourselves up for an incredible first skiing trip.
Pick The Right Ski Resort For Families
Choosing a family friendly ski holiday in a resort that caters to both beginner and intermediate skiers is crucial for us. Not every teenager will pick up skiing immediately, so it helps to have a range of slope difficulties, from gentle, beginner-friendly slopes to more challenging runs.
Some resorts also offer snowboarding and tubing, which can help to engage teens who might want to try something different.
It is worth checking out what the resort has to offer in terms of family-friendly amenities like ski-in/ski-out hotels with on-site food options or catered chalets, and cosy communal areas, because being well looked after off the slopes makes everything smoother and feel more like a vacation.
Take Ski Lessons Together
Skiing can be daunting at first, and taking a family lesson ensures that everyone learns together at a comfortable pace.
Some teenagers may feel hesitant if they are surrounded by experienced skiers, so starting with a group lesson designed for beginners helps everyone get the basics down in an unpressured environment.
Many resorts offer family packages, which are ideal for first-timers (like us!). Private or semi-private lessons are also great options if you want to tailor the experience to just your family’s pace and needs.
Dress Appropriately For The Winter Alpine Climate
Winter sports gear is key to staying comfortable. Make sure everyone has high-quality, waterproof clothing, including base layers, thermal tops, ski jackets, pants, gloves, and helmets. The most important layers are the outer waterproof one and the base layer which must wick moisture away from your body. Don’t wear cotton on top or jeans because it will draw warmth out of you so fast the moment it gets damp.
If you are unsure whether skiing is going to become a family favourite trip, look to hire some of the items rather than buying them to keep the costs down. You could also look at 2nd hand items rather than paying full price. There’s so much ski gear available on eBay but pick famous brands to be sure they quality of older clothing is still good. One top tip for buying on eBay is to plan ahead for next winter by trying to buy ski clothes on eBay at the end of the winter when more people are selling theirs.
Teens may prioritize style, but comfort and warmth are crucial. Look for clothing that’s both functional and stylish to appeal to everyone’s tastes, and you can’t go wrong with the top outdoor and ski brands like Helly Hansen, North Face and snowboarding ones like Burton. If you want to buy new but cheaper, try Decathlon’s own brand stuff, which is much higher quality than other budget outdoor brands.
Another top tip; it’s also helpful to have layers that can be adjusted, as skiing can be hot work, and weather conditions change quickly on the mountain. Keeping dry will keep you warm.
Emphasize Piste Safety
Talk with your teenagers about slope safety before you arrive. Even if they are excited to jump in, remind them about skiing within their skill level, keeping a safe distance from other skiers, and always wearing a helmet.
Injuries can easily happen if you are not paying attention to your surroundings.
Before skiing without their ski instructor, make sure they know how to safely stop, navigate lifts, and handle tricky sections of the slope. Establish a meeting point in case anyone gets separated, and make sure everyone has a phone to stay in contact if needed.
Plan For Rest Breaks And Hot-Choc
Skiing is physically demanding, and it’s important to take breaks to rest and recharge. Teenagers might be eager to hit the slopes without stopping, but planning for periodic breaks helps prevent burnout. The infamous ‘day three slump’ is very real and will be tough to get through if you don’t pace yourself each day.
Pack snacks and drinks, or plan to stop regularly at a cosy cafe for hot chocolate and some carbs for energy. A break also gives everyone a chance to warm up, stay hydrated, and plan the route to their favourite runs from a fresh perspective. In the evenings, make sure you make the most of the famous ski holiday dishes. After big day skiing off hundreds of calories, you’ve earned it!
Encourage Patience and Keep Skiing Fun
Learning to ski can be frustrating at first. Teens who are new to the sport may feel impatient if they don’t master it right away. We’ve all watched things such as the winter Olympics and thought we can do that (but the reality is very different!).
Encourage a mindset of having fun rather than being perfect. Laughing together over small falls and cheering each other on as you learn new techniques is all part of the experience. Celebrate small successes, like mastering a beginner slope or learning a new trick, to keep everyone’s spirits high.
Capture The Family Ski Holiday Memories
Your first family ski trip is one you’ll want to remember, so take plenty of pictures and videos throughout your week. Some families even bring along and action camera like a GoPro for fun slope footage if you’re worried about using your iphone on the snow. Contributing to the filming and editing it can turn into a shared project and create a terrific memento that everyone can look back at.
Finally Wrap Up Each Day Of Skiing With Family Time
After a full day on the slopes, teens are likely to be tired but also energized by the experience. Ending the day with a hearty meal together and some family relaxation time helps everyone wind down. It’s hard to beat relaxing by a log fire together, playing games, or just talking about the highlights of the day. This relaxed, end-of-day routine allows you to bond over the fun moments and set goals for the next day.
By planning carefully, prioritizing comfort and safety, and keeping the mood light, skiing as a family with teenagers can be a fantastic experience filled with memories that will last a lifetime and I can’t wait!