Plan a Ski Holiday: Region, Accommodation and Preparation

• A ski resort is a good fit when its terrain and accessibility suit your travel group.
• The exact address of your accommodation determines your daily journey to the slopes.
• Include travel, transfers, lift passes and equipment in your budget.
• Weather and open lifts can change right up until the day of your trip.
• A day on holiday doesn’t have to be spent exclusively on alpine slopes.

Accommodation near a lift or ski bus can make mornings quicker, but may cost more. Staying in town may offer more restaurants and shops, but you’ll need a reliable way to get to the ski area. When deciding how to get there, consider the exact address, ski boots, children and luggage. When choosing ski accommodation, consider not only the location, but also the right size, amenities and enough space for everyone in your group. Choose a holiday apartment, hotel or chalet to match the kind of daily routine you want.

If you’re driving, consider winter road conditions, parking and allowing extra time for the final stretch. For train or air travel, factor in luggage transport and onward travel to your accommodation. In addition to travel and accommodation, add up the costs of lift passes, rentals, lessons, meals and possible transfers before setting your travel budget. If you’re driving, prepare with winter tyres and, if necessary, snow chains; safety and equipment should be suited to the specific route and ski day. Make sure the weather and operating conditions are right for your chosen area on the day of your trip. Planning a ski holiday starts with choosing when to travel and where to go; then arrange accommodation, equipment and transfers to suit.

When choosing equipment, consider your ability, body measurements and the fit of your ski and snowboard equipment. A ski helmet must fit securely and work with your ski goggles.

Winter sports vary in terms of terrain, ability and equipment. The basics of piste rules, lift types and off-piste terrain are part of winter sports and ski area knowledge. With heli-skiing, helicopter transport takes you to off-piste descents; the requirements depend on skiing experience, emergency equipment, weather and snowpack conditions.