The expectations and experiences of a ski holiday are indeed different for every traveler, as a lot relies on the ability, priorities, and budget. Before booking a ski holiday, one has a lot of aspects to keep in mind – the weather, location, costs, equipment hire, childcare, and other facilities. Hence, the planning process can indeed become a bit overwhelming for all skiers, especially if they are still beginners in this field.
The good news is, there is no need to get overwhelmed by the entire aspect of planning and booking a skiing holiday. All you need to do is to be aware of the essential information and tips when booking a trip to the slopes. Even if this is your first experience in the mountains, you can make it a big success and come back with some great memories.
Essential tips and information for your Ski vacation
When to go?
The first essential step is to pick the right ski resort and the perfect timing to go there. Making the wrong choice here would mean making a wreck of your holiday. So, keep certain things in mind when choosing the perfect resort and book your all in ski deals now.
Avoid February as it is the busiest month, and those slopes would be forever overcrowded. Early December and January are not only cheaper but great months for those looking for no queues and excellent snow.
Where to go?
The kind of resort or location you pick will rely a lot on your skill level, experience, and budget. There are plenty of resorts that have adequate areas for beginners as well as experienced. Here are some of the most popular resorts and excellent skiing locations for skiers:
- Hotel Hauts de Toviere in Tignes – The resort is very close to the slopes and all the amenities and offers a warm and friendly atmosphere. Resort highlights include snow sure large ski area for skiing with excellent quality of slopes. It is an excellent resort for beginners, experts, and families.
- Chalet Victoria in Meribel – While beginners can explore the perfectly groomed slopes, the advanced skiers may try out the steep slopes of Val d’Isère. There are gentlest as well as steepest pistes that cater to all skill levels. Stay at this welcoming and warm chalet with impressive ski slopes and views.
- Hotel Les Dents Blanches in Morzine – You will fall in love with this warm and welcoming chalet-hotel, which is just minutes away from the ski slopes. Enjoy sunny alpine views from the centrally located hotel that is known for its convenience as well as comfort. It boasts of the largest ski area in Europe.
- Chalet Santons in Val Disere – The chalet is loved because of its warm and cost atmosphere, and every kind of skier will simply love being here. The ski slopes and village are minutes away, and you can look forward to some snow-sure glacier skiing at this ski resort, which is simply great for beginners to experts.
Don’t forget to check the location of the accommodation and it should be close to the slopes. Check the transport links, ski lessons, and ski equipment for hire.
What kind of equipment?
Most skiers always have the question of if they need to carry ski equipment or hire. If you are ready to go skiing, then you can buy ski racks from Rocker Ski Racks as the top-notch equipment to store your skis and snowboards, and accessories in a neutral position. Well, with the prices of ski resorts and equipment on the increase, it is no wonder to see the skiers anxious to know the answers. Well, a lot relies on the level of skier, and how often does he ski. Once you become an intermediate or an expert, it makes sense to invest in a pair of boots and skis. It is a good idea to buy in-resort and get great fitting and equipment for optimum comfort. Other gear you would need for skiing includes gloves, goggles, thermals, ski jacket, ski trousers, and a pair of good compression ski merino socks.
What about ski lessons?
Another essential point to consider when booking a ski holiday is if you would need ski lessons. The ski resort you pick should offer beginners to advanced lessons and coaching, so as to help you make the most of your experience. Evaluate their reputation and reviews, and if they have fully qualified instructors who are fluent in English. Look at the size of their groups and what kind of feedback the other skiers have to say about them.
What activities to enjoy beyond the slopes?
When on a skiing holiday, you would not be spending all your time on the slopes. So, what makes your ski holiday ideal is all those activities and fun you can have once you’re off the hill. Most ski resorts offer a number of non-skiing activities available such as snowshoeing, bowling, dog-sledding, or ice skating and have excellent facilities for both adults and children. There are nightlife and clubbing to explore, or you could go to a cost bar with live music. Explore the local shops and supermarkets and restaurants and the gourmet scene around the resort. If you have children with you, do check out the facilities available for the little kids. Ensure that there are reputable ski schools and dedicated children’s area and activities for the little ones.
Last-minute preparations?
Before you make the final choice and make the pavements to confirm you booking, there are some other aspect’s that you need to take care of. Exchange currency beforehand as it is always cheaper to do so and buy ski insurance for the whole group. Or, you can opt for travel insurance. It is also essential to check the weather forecast as the weather can be unpredictable in the higher slopes. So, prepare and pack appropriately.
What other to consider?
Apart from booking the resort and buying or renting the ski equipment, be well aware of other kinds of costs that you are sure to face. Keep aside some cash for lunches, coffee shops, hot chocolate, dinners, and more. And of course, you might indulge in off-slope activities, and that too would cost money. You might want to shop for souvenirs or buy some e exclusive stuff for yourself and your family. So, keep those costs covered with extra cash.
Today, there are a number of ways to book a skiing holiday. All you need to do is look for a leading tour operator online that promises you the best resorts and book a package that is inclusive of flights, transfers, and accommodation.
Look for deals on lift passes and hiring equipment to make further savings. The final costs can vary from resort to resort, and the prices of the lift pass are a great indicator of budget. Group booking for a longer time ensures more savings. So go forth and plan your perfect vacation on the slopes now!
