What Should You Pack for a Winter Trip With Kids?
For a winter or snow trip with kids, pack a three-layer system for each child: a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid layer and a waterproof outer layer, plus hats, mittens and warm socks. Bring spares of anything that gets wet, and rent bulky snow gear at your destination when you can.
On this page
travelingwithchildren.com/packing-list/winter/
The checklist (84 items)
Built for: baby, toddler, kids, teens · flight or road trip · cold climate · 1 week. Tags show when an item only applies to some trips. Quantities assume one week.
Documents 10 items
| Packed | Item | How many |
|---|---|---|
Clothing 17 items
| Packed | Item | How many |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | ||
| 7 | ||
| 6 | ||
| 5 | ||
| 7 pairs | ||
| 2 | ||
| 2 | ||
| 2 | ||
| 2 sets | ||
| 4 pairs | ||
Health 13 items
| Packed | Item | How many |
|---|---|---|
| 2 packs | ||
| 2–3 days' worth + buy there | ||
Gear 22 items
| Packed | Item | How many |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | ||
Entertainment 13 items
| Packed | Item | How many |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | ||
| 4 | ||
Snacks 9 items
| Packed | Item | How many |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | ||
How to use this list
This checklist is for cold-weather and snow trips with children of any age, from a ski week to visiting family in the north. Use the “Print this list” button at the top of the page and start packing a week out, so you have time to check that last year’s gear still fits.
Cross out ski-specific items if you’re not skiing. For a list tailored to age, trip type, climate and length, use the packing list generator.
The layering system
Layering keeps kids warmer than one heavy coat, because you can add or remove layers as they move and the day changes. Plan three layers for each child.
| Layer | What it does | What to pack | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Moves sweat away from skin | Long-sleeve top and long pants in merino wool or synthetic fabric | Cotton, which stays wet |
| Mid | Holds warmth | Fleece jacket or wool sweater, fleece pants on very cold days | Thick layers that limit movement |
| Outer | Blocks wind, snow and water | Waterproof jacket and snow pants or a one-piece snowsuit | Non-waterproof fabric |
Add the extremities: a warm hat that covers the ears, a neck gaiter, waterproof mittens and wool or synthetic socks. Mittens keep small hands warmer than gloves.
Pack one base layer per two days, and plan to dry outer layers overnight. A few hand warmers are useful for longer days outside.
Car seats and coats
Children should not ride in a car seat wearing a puffy coat. The padding compresses in a crash, which can leave the harness too loose. Buckle them in with a thin fleece, then lay the coat or a blanket over the straps.
This applies to rental cars and airport shuttles too. If you fly with your car seat, see car seats on airplanes. For long winter drives, read road trips with kids and add blankets, water and snacks to your car kit.
What people over-pack and forget
Families over-pack bulky outerwear and thick sweaters. Layers pack smaller and work better. Snow gear is often available to rent at ski areas and local shops, which saves luggage space and money. See family travel on a budget for more ways to save.
What people forget:
- A second pair of mittens per child, since the first pair gets wet
- Lip balm and a thick moisturizer for dry, cold air
- Sunscreen and sunglasses or goggles, since snow reflects sunlight
- Indoor shoes or slippers for the rental or lodge
- A plastic bag or mat for wet boots at the door
- Helmets, if your kids ski or sled and you don’t plan to rent
Carry-on vs checked
Wear the bulkiest items on travel day: boots, jacket and the mid layer. That frees up suitcase space and keeps kids warm if you land in the cold.
Your carry-on should hold one full set of base layers, hats, mittens and socks per child. If checked bags are delayed, kids can still go outside the first day. Checked bags hold the rest of the layers, snow pants and spare mittens.
For the full picture, start with our complete guide to traveling with children.
Frequently asked questions
How should kids dress for snow?
Dress them in three layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece or wool mid layer, and a waterproof jacket and snow pants. Add a warm hat, waterproof mittens and wool or synthetic socks. Avoid cotton next to the skin, since it stays wet and cold.
Can kids wear winter coats in car seats?
No. Puffy coats compress in a crash and can leave the harness too loose to hold your child. Buckle them in with a thin fleece, then put the coat on backwards over the straps or cover them with a blanket.
Should I buy or rent snow gear for kids?
For one trip a year, renting snow pants, jackets and ski gear often costs less than buying, and kids outgrow gear fast. Many ski areas and local shops rent children's gear. Bring your own base layers, socks, hats and mittens, since those need to fit well.
How many pairs of mittens and socks should kids bring?
Pack at least two pairs of mittens and one pair of warm socks per day. Snow gets inside and wet mittens don't dry overnight in every room. Waterproof mittens with long cuffs keep snow out best.
How do I keep a baby warm on a winter trip?
Dress a baby in one more layer than an adult would wear in the same conditions, and cover the head, hands and feet. Check the back of their neck to see if they are too hot or too cold. Ask your pediatrician about cold-weather outings for young infants.