Tips for a Successful Ski Holiday with Kids

Planning a ski holiday with kids in Niseko can be both exciting and challenging. To ensure your family’s time on the slopes is happy and stress-free, follow these tips for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Being properly dressed ensures your child’s memories of skiing are warm and positive. Layering up is the best way, with each layer of clothing serving its own unique function. Essentially, staying dry means staying warm, so choosing the right clothing is crucial to keeping moisture at bay.

Base Layers: Long-sleeved tops and leggings made of merino wool are ideal for any weather. In the coldest months of January and February, merino wool's renowned warmth truly shines, while in spring, its moisture-wicking properties keep kids dry and comfortable as temperatures rise. Although merino wool may be more expensive initially, its durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment.

Mid Layers: These can vary based on the temperature. Fleece is a versatile option that can be easily removed if your child gets too warm. During peak winter, thin down jackets can fit comfortably under outer layers while providing significant warmth.

Outer Layers: Waterproofing is essential here, as the base and mid-layers provide the primary warmth. High-quality pants are important, especially since kids will spend a lot of time sitting in the snow while they are learning and playing. Look for pants with suspender straps or bib styles to keep snow out. Brightly coloured outerwear makes it easier to spot your child in the snow and looks great in family photos!

Accessories: Don’t forget essential accessories like socks, balaclavas, mittens, helmets, and goggles. Mittens are generally warmer and easier for kids to manage than gloves, and wrist straps help prevent them from being lost. Protect your child's skin and eyes with sunscreen and goggles to keep them comfortable and shielded from the harsh winter elements.

At YamaSport we have kids rental sizes of jackets, pants, goggles, mittens, and helmets. We also have a selection of base layers, socks, mittens, and balaclavas available to purchase.

Renting ski gear is often a practical and convenient choice for families. Children are in a constant state of growth, and their ski gear needs to fit them properly to ensure both safety and comfort. Renting allows you to easily adjust to their changing sizes, ensuring that they have well-fitting equipment for the duration of your holiday. Properly fitting gear helps prevent accidents and enhances the overall skiing experience by providing better control and comfort on the slopes.

Additionally, pre-booking your rental equipment online before you arrive can significantly streamline your experience. By reserving in advance, you save valuable time that would otherwise be spent in the rental shop, and you can often secure better rates and availability. This pre-planning not only makes the process smoother but also ensures that you and your family can spend more time enjoying your ski holiday and less time dealing with logistical details.

Check out our Beginner's Guide for more information on how the ski rental process works from start to finish.

Enrolling your children in ski lessons is one of the best ways to ensure they have a positive and enjoyable experience. Choose resorts with designated kids’ facilities, magic carpets, and a variety of lesson options tailored to your child’s needs. Professional instructors will take on the responsibility of teaching your little ones the basics of skiing, using engaging games and activities to make learning fun. These lessons help kids gain confidence and skills, making their time on the slopes both enjoyable and rewarding.

As a parent, you can relax and fully enjoy your own time on the slopes, knowing that your children are in expert hands. While the instructors handle the teaching, you have the freedom to explore more challenging terrain or simply unwind. This balance allows the entire family to maximise their ski holiday, with kids enhancing their skills and confidence, and parents enjoying a stress-free skiing experience.

GoSnow are the official international ski school of Grand Hirafu resort. They offer group and private lessons for kids, and have designated staff and facilities for children aged 3 and up.

Skiing can be physically demanding, especially for younger kids. Plan to take frequent breaks to rest, warm up, and recharge. Use this time to enjoy some snacks, hot drinks, and a bit of relaxation to keep the fun going throughout the day. For younger kids, try not to book too many days of consecutive lessons - having lessons only on every second day can allow them the time they need to unwind and make sure they are getting the most out of their classes.

To keep the holiday exciting and varied, incorporate non-skiing activities into your plans. Building snowmen and doing some sledding are great ways to add extra fun and ensure the whole family stays entertained. These activities also offer a nice break from skiing and can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of skill level.

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, your kids will likely be tired and hungry. To make dining in Niseko easier, here are some helpful tips!

• Given the popularity of Niseko's incredible restaurants, it's wise to make an early reservation to avoid long wait times. Booking a 5:30PM dinner will allow your little ones to recharge early and get plenty of rest for another day of adventure.

• We understand that kids can be picky eaters, but you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy even the fussiest appetites. Kumo Restaurant and An Dining offer a range of kid-friendly dishes and set-menues. Plus, there are food trucks all around Niseko serving both Western and traditional Japanese cuisine, ensuring everyone finds something they love!

By following these tips, you’ll set the stage for a memorable and enjoyable family ski holiday. Embrace the adventure, create lasting memories, and most importantly, have a blast together on the slopes!