From the stunning scenery to the thrill of skiing down a snowy mountain, there is nothing quite like a ski holiday. So you’ve been persuaded, found a resort that suits your needs and booked your flights, but what’s next? Don’t just sit back and count down the days until your holiday. There are plenty of things to do before you set off, to ensure you have the best ski experience possible.
- Do your homework
If you have booked your holiday then you will have already researched the area and the resort where you will be staying, but take time to plan exactly what you need, and then find out what is included in your package. If you are staying in a hotel or in a self-catered chalet, booking a restaurant for the first night takes the pressure off after a long day of travelling. If you are still deciding where to stay, self-catered ski chalets are a great option as you have mealtimes taken care of, plus friendly faces who can arrange things like discounted ski hire and lessons for you. Get as much as possible planned before you go – arrange your airport transfer, pre-book your ski hire and ski passes. If you are travelling with children, make sure you book child care or ski lessons for them well in advance.
- Get the right clothing
It is vital to get the right kit ahead of your skiing holiday, as your clothing will make a huge difference once you’re on the mountain. Your ski jacket and trousers are the most important items to get right. Look for a high quality, fully waterproof design to keep you warm and dry whilst on the slopes. Pack plenty of layers to wear underneath such as thermal vests and leggings, cotton t shirts and fleeces. Don’t forget all of the extras too: ski socks, gloves, hats and a neck warmer are all necessities to keep you warm. A small and light rucksack can be handy to carry around items such as sun cream and bottles of water. Ski equipment such as boots and skis are better to hire once you arrive, so that you can change them if they aren’t right.
- Practice on an Indoor Ski Slope
If you can, it is worth booking a taster session at your local ski slope or snowdome. Advances in snow technology mean that these experiences are getting closer to the real thing, and they are a great way to practice before you go. You will be able to get used to wearing boots and skis, and have a few goes at mastering the snowplough, which will give you that extra bit of confidence ahead of your first day on the slopes. The more practice you can get in before you go the better, so book a day-long course or a few visits if possible.
- Get Fit
There is nothing worse than wanting to pack it all in a few days into your ski holiday as you are just too exhausted. Make sure you are fit and ready before you go by starting an exercise plan well in advance. Skiing all day long at high altitude is a test for even the fittest of holidaymakers, so make sure you prepare. Building your ski fitness by strengthening those leg muscles, and getting your heart pumping at least three times a week in the months before your trip.
- Book Lessons
If you are going on holiday with friends or family members who already know how to ski, don’t let them take it upon themselves to be your ski instructor for the week. As fun as it is to ski with friends, don’t rely on them to show you the ropes. Proper ski lessons are a worthwhile investment, to teach you the right techniques and help build your confidence on the slopes Book your lessons before you go to make sure you get a space.
Now that you have everything planned, you can relax and look forward to the holiday of a lifetime.
