Baby's first ski vacation: everything you need to know!
From what age can you take your baby to the mountains?
Before planning your ski trip with your baby, there are some medical recommendations to take into account. We'll tell you straight away: climbing Everest or Mont White is out of the question for young children. Indeed, doctors advise against going above 1,700 metres altitude before the age of 15 months. Bear in mind: choose a resort that isn't too high to ensure a peaceful stay for baby (and for you!).
Ascend gently
The pressure created by altitude can be painful for your baby. To help them, plan stops when driving up (at around 1,200 or 1,400 m altitude, for example). Then, try feeding them with a bottle or dummy. Babies do not swallow in the same way as adults. This method will prevent potential earache, just as during a plane take-off!
Packing baby's bag for the mountains
Snowy surroundings and sub-zero temperatures call for appropriate clothing! Pack warm clothes and several layers (bodysuit, base layer, long-sleeved top, jumpers, tights), sleeping bag, nest sleeping bag, mittens, hats… Outdoors, make sure your child is well wrapped up. Indoors, remember to undress them so they don't overheat... In a previous article, we explain how to tell if your baby is too hot or too cold and how to dress them at night.
Watch out for the sun at altitude
Babies' eyes are sensitive and the sun's glare is intense due to the snow. Remember sunglasses. Opt for a UV-protective sunglasses model. Also protect their face with sun protection suitable for very young children.
In the mountains: pushchair or baby carrier?
Find out about your future holiday destination. Is it accessible by car? Is it a small town with pavements or, on the contrary, a hamlet with snowy slopes? Either way, a baby carrier can be useful for walking around with your hands free. In this article, we reveal everything about babywearing and baby carriers. Some ski resorts offer three-wheel snow pushchairs for hire, which are extremely practical when getting around. Again, check with the tourist office or sports shops at your mountain resort.
Staying hydrated, even more so in the mountains
Yes indeed, in the mountains the air is dry both indoors and outdoors. Between heated accommodation, warm and sometimes technical clothing, babies and adults can quickly become dehydrated at altitude. So, a little reminder to stay well hydrated:
- Drink water regularly (flask, bottle…),
- Moisturise baby's skin with suitable creams to prevent dryness, itching and tightness of the skin.
Planning childcare in advance
You want to hit the slopes, but what will you do with your little one? Plan your child's childcare arrangements at the ski resort in advance. Sometimes Piou Piou clubs or crèches get fully booked… Make sure you find out well before your trip. Crèches generally accept babies from 4 months old. Please note, it is strongly advised against skiing with your child in a baby carrier.
Preventing future bumps and scrapes
Finally, our ultimate recommendation: in addition to bringing a well-stocked first aid kit, find out about doctors and medical emergency services at your holiday destination.
Here are the essentials for a baby first aid kit:
- Paracetamol: in case of fever.
- Soothing gel or chamomile-based product (homoeopathy): for teething.
- Rehydration solutions: in case of diarrhoea
- Anti-diarrhoeal: to soothe your baby's colic.
- Saline solution: multi-purpose.
- Moisturising cream
- Arnica: for bruises or bumps.
- Antiseptic: for wounds.
- Plasters
- Nasal aspirator
- Thermometer
- Plaster
- Small pair of scissors
- Cotton pad
Enjoy your mountain stay!
The Charlie Crane team
