How to Plan Your First Ski Trip
Hitting the slopes for the first time? Ensure an enjoyable experience on- and off-piste by following this beginner’s guide to planning ski trips.
Choosing your destination
From rural Canada to the thriving interlocking slopes of Les Trois Vallées in France, you’re spoiled for choice with destinations for a skiing holiday.
Finding the right location for you and your companions will depend on how much you want to spend and your preferred atmosphere.
Looking for a budget-friendly trip? Choosing a location close to where you live will minimise travel costs.
Flights will be cheaper – or you can forgo flights and get there by train, bus or car. Alternatively, look into last-minute ski holidays with fantastic deals on a selection of resorts.
If you’re prepared to splash the cash, you can experience spectacular scenery at the highest elevations, in peaceful places away from the crowds or at the heart of the action.
Understanding accommodation
Even though ski resorts offer a narrow category of holiday accommodation, there’s still plenty of variety.
Knowing your priorities and what factors to consider is crucial for having an excellent stay. Start by investigating the skiing opportunities, ensuring there are runs suited to beginners and classes where you can hone your skills in a safe space.
Most resorts detail the quantity and variety of pistes on their websites: beginner runs are marked in green and blue, while red and black denote advanced trails.
Read up on the typical snow conditions too, and aim for somewhere with fresh powder throughout much of the season. This can make all the difference when you’re getting started.
You should also consider activities beyond the slopes, especially if you’re travelling as a family and need to keep the kids entertained.
This is referred to as ‘après-ski’ and is a fundamental aspect of a successful holiday.
Larger resorts are your best bet for exciting and varied après-ski activities: typical facilities include an ice rink, indoor play area, spa, restaurants and buzzing bars.
Investing in the gear
You can often hire a lot of the key equipment at the resort including skis and snowboards, boots, poles and helmets.
This is much more cost-effective than buying your own, especially if you’re trialling the sport for the first time.
However, it’s important to invest in the right protective gear for prolonged exposure to snow and sunshine.
You’ll need thermal layers as your base and a quality ski suit over the top to stay warm.
Thick socks, gloves, and a scarf are indispensable items to have as well. Remember to pack sunglasses and suncream to safeguard against UV rays which are particularly powerful at high altitudes.
Learning basic techniques
Before you embark on your trip, make a point of learning basic techniques at home.
Watch videos demonstrating simple movements, browse articles with tips from top ski instructors and head to your nearest indoor skiing venue to practise on fake snow.
This means you can spend less time on lessons during your trip and more time taking on the runs!
Researching mountain etiquette is also essential to ensure your safety and the welfare of others.
Understand how to respect other skiers when navigating the slopes and your responsibilities in taking care of yourself and others.
