There’s something magical about fresh powder, crisp mountain air, and seeing your baby bundled up like a tiny marshmallow for the first time. But, whether they’re a baby, or a toddler, taking your little one to the snow is a whole different level of packing, planning, and preparing.
Whether you’re heading to Japan, New Zealand, Perisher, or the Alps, here’s your go-to guide for making your baby’s first snow trip cosy, calm, and, dare we say - actually enjoyable.
Where possible, we've included links to the products we've used (or similar). We don't have any affiliation with these brands or benefit from any purchases you make.
❄️ 1. Layers, Layers, and More Layers
Babies lose heat quickly, and depending on their age, they may not be able to regulate their body temperature, so the goal is layers that trap warmth and wick moisture without bulk. Plus, you want to be able to easily de-layer your little one when in temperature controlled areas.
Your winning formula:
- A merino base layer - Merino wool is a natural fibre, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It has the added bonus of actually helping to regulate body temperature, whether you’re in a hot or cold climate.
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A fleece mid-layer (one pieces with sleeves that roll over the hands are ideal).
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A waterproof, windproof outer layer (we prefer a bib + jacket because they’re easier to de-layer and you can use the jacket separately, however a snow suit might be more appropriate for a younger baby).
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A snuggly beanie that actually stays on (neck warmers and balaclavas work well for toddlers)
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Gloves or mittens (mittens a couple sizes too big work well for babies, because you can put their whole hand in the main opening and secure around their wrists).
Pro tip: Avoid cotton - it gets wet and stays wet. Merino is your snow-trip MVP.
🍼 2. Pack a Swift-Change Kit (Trust Us)
Cold weather + bulky layers = nappy changes that truly test your patience.
Having a small, grab-and-go changing kit makes all the difference. The Nappy Buddy or Mum Club Crossbody Bag is ideal because you can keep wipes, nappies, and a change mat ready without unpacking your entire suitcase or digging through snow gear.
If you're heading into the resort village or onto a gondola, being able to change quickly is a sanity-saver.
🌨️ 3. Keep Feeding Simple
If you’re breastfeeding, bring nipple balm, the cold can make things more sensitive.
If you’re bottle-feeding, pre-measure formula and use an insulated bags to keep things warm. For toddlers, pack snacks that won’t freeze solid (muffins, soft bars, pouches).
The insulated pockets on your Anywhere Backpack and Mum Club Crossbody Bag comes in very handy here. Or carry it all in your Lunch Buddy. You can bundle all three bags and save $45 if you go for our Anywhere Mum Bundle.
⛷ 4. Pram or Carrier? Choose Based on the Conditions
Baby carrier: Best for snowy paths, slushy streets, or anywhere wheels struggle. Make sure bub is warm underneath and not exposed to wind.
Pram: Most resorts will have cleared paths. We used our Baby Jogger City Tour 2 at a ski resort, and found it handled the snow really well! Check out our review here.
Many parents end up using both, a pram for naps and a carrier for moving around more easily.
☀️ 5. Sun Protection Is Still Essential
Winter sun is sneaky. UV rays bounce off snow, making the exposure even stronger.
Don’t forget:
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Child-safe sunscreen.
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Sunglasses (or a sun-shielded pram bassinet).
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A warm hat with a brim.
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Lip balm for older toddlers.
🧳 6. Organise Your Day Bag Like a Pro
Snow trips come with gear, so much gear. The trick is keeping everything accessible when you’ve got gloves on and a baby wriggling in 12 layers.
In your day pack, include:
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2–3 nappies.
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Baby wipes.
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Spare socks + mittens.
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A compact change mat.
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Snacks.
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A milk/water warmer - we always used the Meke Baby Express Pro.
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A small towel (snow = wet everything).
The Anywhere Backpack’s shelving and waterproof compartments make snowy outings way less chaotic. It includes a refillable wipes case, reusable change mat and pram straps, so you don’t always have to carry it!
🚗 7. Plan for Slow Transitions
Everything takes longer in the snow: dressing, moving between buildings, getting in the car, getting back out…
Give yourself extra time and try a “warm-up/cool-down” routine:
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Dress baby inside before going outdoors.
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Undress a layer as soon as you’re inside to prevent overheating.
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Bring a blanket for car transitions.
🏨 8. Choose Accommodation with Baby-Friendly Comforts
Things that make snow trips infinitely easier:
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A room with heating you can control.
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A kettle or microwave.
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Space for your pram or drying baby gear.
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Walking distance to the slopes or shuttle.
Many hotels will lend baby cots (but always confirm ahead). We always travelled with our Silvercross Slumber Cot, so our son had a familiar and safe sleeping space.
💡 9. Safety First, Always
It’s easy to get carried away in a winter wonderland, but here are two things that we want every parent to remember when heading to the know with littles.
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Even the most coordinated toddlers probably aren’t used to walking on icy surfaces. Remember that snow that has melted and reset is very slippery, so take extra care.
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Don’t leave your baby’s snow suit on while they’re in a car seat, the ‘puffer’ style suits and jackets compress under pressure and the seatbelt may not be effective in an accident.
✨ 10. Lean Into the Cosy Moments
The best parts of a baby’s first snow trip? Warm baths after cold noses. Snuggling in bed with views of falling snow. Laughing at your toddler trying to walk in puffy snow pants. Creating memories that will last long after the snow melts.
Travel has a way of slowing everything down and making the simple moments magical.
♥️ Final Thoughts
Taking a baby to the snow for the first time is absolutely doable - and absolutely worth it. With the right prep, the right layers, and a well-packed day bag, you’ll feel confident, calm, and ready to enjoy every frosty moment.
If you want to make the packing part a breeze, check out our snow-trip-friendly favourites: the Anywhere Backpack, Nappy Buddy, Lunch Buddy, and our newest arrival - the Mum Club Crossbody Bag.
Happy Travels ✈️
Love, HuddoCo xx
