A skiing holiday isn’t like every other holiday. There’s a lot of planning but also mental preparation that goes into it, especially for those trying it for the first time. A ski holiday can carry a lot of high expectations or be quite daunting – you might not even know what to expect!
But that’s fine! To help you get started, we’ve got some insider tips on your first time hitting the slopes, so you can put your mind at ease and enjoy your ski holiday to the fullest!
Not Getting Fit Before you Go
Sometimes we forget that skiing is actually a form of exercise and it does wear you out. A skiing holiday is very physical and can quickly zap your energy and tire out your muscles, especially if you haven’t done some exercise before your trip to prepare your body. This doesn’t mean you need to hit the gym every day in the weeks leading up to your holiday. You can work on cardio and your core strength about 3 times a week. There are lots of free Youtube videos and guides on the internet for exercises and fitness routines before you hit the slopes to ensure you’ll be ready to take to the mountains all day.
Not Taking Out Travel Insurance
This is as important as packing, buying sufficient travel insurance should be done before you even set off on your holiday. You might already have travel insurance, but make sure to check if you are covered for winter sports.
Planning to hit the snowpark or try some off piste skiing? This is more for experienced skiers, but again, check that this is also covered as you could run the risk of paying a hefty bill if not. Insurance isn’t just for your own safety but also covers damage or theft which can put your mind at ease when on holiday, especially as ski equipment can be expensive.
Not Wearing Suncream & SPF Lip Balm
It might be quite surprising to ski newbies but suncream is just as important on the mountains as it is in a hot country. Altitude makes the harmful UV rays stronger meaning that you’ll be much more susceptible to sunburn and end up with classic skiers goggle burn and look like a panda. It’s a distinctive look for sure, but it’s a look that screams “I forgot to put suncream on” as you’ll be left with the bottom half of your face bright red. Especially when it is a sunny day, reapply your suncream throughout the day so that your skin is properly protected. Also top up on lip balm as your lips can easily get chapped and burnt. No one wants to endure the discomfort of swollen lips!
Teaching Yourself or Getting a Friend to Teach You
Although it’s the cheapest way of starting, it isn’t the most effective and it’s a disaster waiting to happen. Even if they are an experienced skier or an instructor themselves, it is much better getting an instructor who you do not know. That way you have a neutral ground; it doesn’t interfere with that friendship and you’re less likely to give up early if you can’t master the moves.
Book yourself into lessons, whether that’s private or in a group. Private lessons are great if you just want one-on-one teaching and want to progress quickly. It can work really well for some whilst others can find it a bit intimidating. Group lessons are sociable and cheaper, usually running in the morning for 2-3 hours over 6 days.