Top Tips for Planning a Ski Trip

Find the Ideal Ski Location for You

The first thing you should think about is finding a ski resort that is ideal for your situation. It pretty much depends on your budget, your skill level, and whether you’re going with your family, friends or partner. Some people prefer a resort that’s closer to a city and more crowded and others opt for a more isolated ski location for a relaxing winter escape. While you’re searching for chalets, keep an open eye for off-peak-period discounts or other deals for families and large groups.

One of our all-time favourites is the French Alps, which is a popular destination for winter ski vacations. Brits who love ski and other winter sports seem to favour France not only for the big pistes and lifts but also for its proximity to the UK. Driving is an option if you have the luxury of time, but the truth is that France is faster and cheaper to reach by plane.

Pick your Dates

Now that you’ve picked the perfect ski resort, you’ll need to settle on your vacation dates. Luckily, most resorts open in December and close in mid-April. This gives you enough flexibility when looking for travel dates.

• In early December, you’ll find good deals and fewer crowds, but the thin snow might be a downside for skiing. Christmas and New Year are always a high peak time which makes prices rise and availability run out fast.
• January is a more affordable month and less busy. Days are shorter though, and that’s a restricting factor for spending hours skiing out on the slopes.
• February is the peak of the season. It ties in with spring break and school holidays. This time of the year, pistes and lifts are busy, but the weather is just perfect!
• March and April are lovely for spring skiing and long sunny days. Prices are lower, and the weather gives you the freedom to spend more time outside.

Book Airport Parking

To make the most out of your winter vacation, you should consider wasting as little time and as few resources as possible on getting to your destination. Flying to another country is always the fastest way, and usually the most affordable option. If you’re looking to save more money, you can do so by booking cheap airport parking.

For the UK and Irish travellers who are thinking about going abroad for ski holidays, there is Parkhero, the leading online comparison site for airport parking. For example, if you’re departing from London and looking for Heathrow airport parking, you can make use of the Heathrow Park and Ride or Meet and Greet services. Find the same type of services and hundreds of car parks in all airports across the UK. The earlier you book, the less you pay!

Ski Resort Facilities

Once you decide on a ski resort, it’s time to look for packages that combine lodge, half or full-board, ski lessons, discount ski passes, and entertainment options. For beginners and children who don’t have any experience, there are many instructors and ski lessons as well. If you don’t feel like carrying your equipment with you, you can also hire skis, boots, and poles from the resort or a third-party provider.

When you’re not setting off down the pistes, you should make sure that there are other entertainment and leisure activities to do in the area. For instance, Les Arcs, one of the most popular and good value for money ski chalets in France, is vibrant on and off the slopes. You can find local shops, restaurants, bars and buzzing nightlife. The resort also offers activities and playgrounds for families with children.

Read More...

Packing your Bags

The first thing that comes to mind when starting to pack your bags for ski holidays is gear and equipment. Make sure not to overlook putting the warmest clothing you have and necessary accessories in your luggage. A windcheater, long-sleeved shirts, thermal underwear, sweaters and cardigans should be at the top of your list. Goggles, gloves, ski masks and socks are also must-haves. Swimsuit and flip flops sound like the essentials of a summer holiday packing list, but what if the lodge where you are staying has saunas and indoor pools?

The dilemma that many skiers are caught in is whether to bring their own equipment or to rent. For first-timers and families, we suggest renting the gear that you’ll need. Who wants to carry extra baggage when getting around? If you’re flying, the equipment will have to be checked-in, thus charged with an additional fee. Remember that hiring gear at the mountain is always more expensive than it is from a town close to the resort. A clever idea is to check regularly for discounts on skis and snowboard hire packages. If skiing is an integral part of your winters, then it’s best to purchase enduring and high-quality equipment. This will definitely save you money over the years.