The Complete Family Ski Trip Packing List for Blue Mountain

Packing for a family ski trip requires thinking about more than just skis and jackets. Between gear for the slopes, clothes for the chalet, entertainment for downtime, and supplies for the kitchen, the list can get overwhelming quickly. This guide covers everything you need so nothing gets left behind.

Ski and Snowboard Gear

What to Bring

• **Ski jacket** — Waterproof and insulated, with a hood
• **Ski pants** — Waterproof with reinforced knees and cuffs
• **Base layers** — Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (one set per ski day, plus a spare)
• **Mid-layer** — Fleece or light down jacket for under your ski jacket
• **Ski socks** — Wool or synthetic blend, calf-height (bring 2 to 3 pairs)
• **Helmet** — Non-negotiable for all family members, especially children
• **Goggles** — With interchangeable lenses if possible (dark for sunny days, clear for overcast or night skiing)
• **Gloves or mittens** — Waterproof and insulated. Mittens are warmer for young children.
• **Neck gaiter or balaclava** — Essential for cold and windy days
• **Hand and toe warmers** — Disposable warmers are inexpensive and can save a cold day

What to Rent at Blue Mountain

If you do not own your own equipment, or if you are skiing infrequently, renting makes more sense than buying:

• **Skis, boots, and poles** — Available at Blue Mountain and several shops in Collingwood
• **Snowboards and boots** — Same rental locations
• **Helmets** — Available for rent, though having your own ensures fit and comfort

Tip: Book rentals online in advance, especially during holiday periods. This saves time and often qualifies for discounts.

Clothing for Off the Slopes

Everyday Winter Wear

• Warm casual jacket or parka for walking around the Village
• Winter boots (not ski boots) for walking on snowy sidewalks
• Warm hat and casual gloves
• Jeans or casual pants
• Sweaters and long-sleeve shirts
• Comfortable indoor clothes for evenings at the chalet

For Children

• Extra sets of everything — Kids get wet, cold, and messy
• Indoor shoes or slippers for the chalet
• Pajamas and comfortable loungewear
• Swimsuit and towel for the hot tub

Kitchen and Food Supplies

One of the biggest advantages of staying in a chalet rather than a hotel is having a full kitchen. Here is what to bring or buy on the way:

Bring from Home

• Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate supplies
• Snacks for the car and the slopes (granola bars, trail mix, fruit)
• Any specialty items or dietary-specific foods
• Spices and condiments you use regularly

Buy on the Way or in Collingwood

• Fresh groceries for meals (the Zehrs and Metro in Collingwood are well-stocked)
• Bread, eggs, and breakfast basics
• Ingredients for easy dinners (pasta, chili, or soup ingredients work great)
• Beverages and drinks

Easy Meal Ideas for the Chalet

1. <strong>Chili or stew</strong>: &mdash; Make a big pot that lasts two dinners
2. <strong>Pasta night</strong>: &mdash; Quick, filling, and universally loved by kids
3. <strong>Tacos</strong>: &mdash; Easy to prepare and everyone customizes their own
4. <strong>Breakfast for dinner</strong>: &mdash; Pancakes, eggs, and bacon after a long ski day
5. <strong>Slow cooker meals</strong>: &mdash; Prep in the morning, ready when you return from the slopes

Entertainment and Essentials

For the Chalet

• Board games and card games for family evenings
• A portable speaker for music (our chalets have great sound systems, but bring your playlists)
• Books or magazines for quiet time
• Streaming device or login details for your streaming services
• Chargers for all devices

For Children

• Colouring books and art supplies for younger kids
• Tablet or device loaded with movies and games (for downtime and car rides)
• A favourite stuffed animal or comfort item
• Small toys for keeping busy during breaks

Health and Safety

• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher &mdash; the sun reflecting off snow causes burns even on cloudy days)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen for sore muscles)
• First aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and blister pads
• Any prescription medications
• Hand sanitizer
• COVID tests and masks (if applicable)

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

• **Cash** &mdash; Some smaller vendors and tip jars are cash-only
• **Reusable water bottles** &mdash; Staying hydrated on the slopes is critical
• **Backpack or day pack** &mdash; For carrying snacks, water, and extra layers on the mountain
• **Plastic bags** &mdash; For wet clothes and boots
• **Boot dryer or newspaper** &mdash; Stuff boots with newspaper overnight to absorb moisture and help them dry

Packing Tips

1. <strong>Start your list a week before</strong>: &mdash; Add items as you think of them rather than trying to remember everything the night before
2. <strong>Assign each family member a packing zone</strong>: &mdash; Have each person responsible for their own gear bag
3. <strong>Use packing cubes</strong>: &mdash; They keep organized chaos manageable, especially with kids
4. <strong>Pack ski gear separately</strong>: &mdash; Keep ski bags and boot bags separate from luggage so they are easy to grab
5. <strong>Load the car the night before</strong>: &mdash; This makes departure smoother, especially for early morning drives

What Blue View Chalets Provides

When you stay at Blue View Chalets, many items on this list are already taken care of:

• Fully equipped kitchen with cookware, dishes, and utensils
• Linens, towels, and bedding
• Hot tub (swimsuits are the only thing you need to bring)
• High-speed internet and smart TVs
• Washer and dryer (great for multi-day stays)
• Spacious mudroom or entry area for drying boots and storing gear
• Heating and climate control

This means your packing can focus on personal items, ski gear, and food rather than household supplies. It is one of the many advantages of choosing a chalet over a hotel for your family ski trip.