Beware! First time snow skiing family is packing!!!
This girl, who has lived in Florida for close to 35 years, went skiing with a family of four. Packing was taunting. I promise you it's not for the weary. Beach vacations are much easier. You need some sunscreen, flip flops, a bathing suit, and a cover up...and you're almost done pack for your beach trip. On the other hand, skiing was a whole new world.
I consulted with many of my friends from around the United States on what I needed for skiing. Here's the best list I can provide for you. I am embarassed to tell you that we had four suitcases for the four of us. However, we wore almost everything we packed. So if you are wondering, “Am I overpacking?” You probably aren't.
Snow boots – our hotel had a ski valet, so we wore snow boots to the valet where we picked up our ski boots.
Socks – wool or ski – this is your preference. I took both and wore the wool socks on the colder days and the “ski” socks on the warmer days (even at warmer, the high was 38 degrees)
Thermal pants – We all wore the Lands End Thermaskins.
Thermal shirt or dri-fit shirt – it will depend on the temperature. If you need the warmth, go with a thermal. If you need a wicking material to help you not get cold from sweating, go with a dri-fit. You can also decided between short sleeve and long sleeve with the shirt depending on the temperature.
Fleece pull over – This is the one item you may or may not wear. It also depends on the temperature.
Bibs or ski pants – I saw a fair share of people in both. I prefer bibs, especially as a beginner. Then snow doesn't get into the back of your pants when you fall.
Waterproof/ski jacket
Waterproof/ski gloves
Glove liners – This is one thing I packed but never used.
Hat – We wore helmets for skiing (most people did), so the hat had to be snug (like a beanie style). This way the helmet could easily fit over it.
Gaitor (pronounced “gator”) - This will keep your neck warm. You can pull it up over your chin, cheeks, and mouth if needed.
Ski goggles
Bathing suits – Yes, you need this if the property where you are staying has a hot tub or heated pool.
Foot warmers/hand warmers – We used these. They were nice to have in our pockets to help warm up at a break. We didn't find them comfortable in our boots or gloves while skiing.
Chapstick – Each person will want to have their own stick to zip inside their jacket.
Sunscreen – The reflection of the sun off the snow can be bad. Sunscreen is recommended on the face (and any other exposed areas) for every skier.
Granola bars – Each person will want to have one in their ski jacket. If you are a beginner, skiing can take a lot of effort and cause a need for energy in between meals.
While this list may not be exhaustive for you and your family, it certainly is a good start. This is the list we worked off of for packing as well as each morning as we were getting ready to hit the slopes.