12 Things to Pack for A Snow Trip with Kids. Thinking about taking your kids to play in the snow? This packing list will help everyone stay warm so you can maximize the time spent having fun. My family just got back from a trip to Denver where we saw temperatures as low as -8 degrees with an infant and a toddler. This is a little different than the 50s we are experiencing in Arizona this winter!
Don’t miss the suggestions at the end of the post, of where to find snow in Arizona – including free spots!
Here is what I packed for the kids to make sure they were prepared:
1. Thermal underwear
Make your base layer of clothing a pair of thermal underwear made out of wool, polyester, spandex or a blend of these. These materials will help wick moisture away from your child’s skin to help keep them dry and warm. The underwear itself should their full body. Most sets come with a long sleeve top and matching bottoms.
2. Long sleeve shirts and pants
The thicker the better! Assuming you’ve already got thermal underwear, I recommend adding an additional 1-2 layers of clothing on top of that. I personally like packing a jacket for one of these layers so that it’s easy to unzip and take off if my child gets too warm. Every child is different so some may only need 1 extra layer of clothing while others may need two.
3. Snowsuits
The final layer my kids had was a full body snowsuit. This will help keep those layers of clothing underneath dry while playing in the snow.
4. Coats
You’ll want a waterproof coat that can fit over top of everything else. Just remember that it is not safe for kids to wear coats in a car seat so keep it off while in the car until you arrive at your destination.
5. Hats
Get your kids a hat that covers their ears! Your goal is to have the least amount of skin exposed to the elements as possible. For babies, look for a hat with a strap on it so that it’s not as easy for them to remove it.
6. Mittens / Gloves
Get a pair of fleece-lined waterproof mittens or gloves for those little hands. You may need to double-up on gloves and mittens. I like to put a thinner glove underneath our waterproof mittens for kids who need extra warmth.
7. Snow boots
Walking in the snow is much easier when you’re wearing boots that are designed to do just that. Invest in a nice pair of snow boots that are waterproof and ideally rise above the ankle so there is less chance of snow getting inside.
8. Wool Socks
Wool is where it’s at when it comes to staying warm! Look for socks made of at least 70% wool to keep your child’s feet nice and warm. Still, I recommend at least two layers of socks when playing out in the snow.
12 Things to Pack for A Snow Trip with Kids
9. Moisturizers
The dry winter air can cause rashes. Pack a facial moisturizer with SPF and lip balm to prevent dryness on the areas that are most likely to be exposed to the elements. Body lotion can be helpful as it is possible to develop dryness on skin that is covered as well.
10. Scarves
My kids really liked these scarves! They were tight enough that they stayed securely around their neck and large enough that we could use them to protect their nose and cheeks from the elements as well.
11. Polarized sunglasses or goggles
Polarized lenses can reduce the glare caused by the sun hitting the snow. If you plan on participating in winter sports, you may consider purchasing goggles or a separate strap you can attach to your existing glasses to better secure them.
12. Hand warmers
We packed way too many hand warmers and only used two during our 4-day trip. If you pack and use the rest of the items on this list you will likely only need these in the event of an emergency.
You’re all set! I hope this packing list helps you feel more prepared for your next snow trip with the kids. Let us know where you’re headed in the comments! Is there anything you would add?
Now that you’re all prepared, check out this post of where to find snow in Arizona, plus free snow play spots.
