Tips For Planning a Ski Trip
As the end of the year approaches, temperatures start to drop and the snow starts to fall. For Floridians, however, the most we’ll get is snow flurries. That’s why ski trips are so exciting. The cold, the snow, the mountains, what doesn’t a ski trip offer? With kids back in school, the time is now to book a trip if you want to take your family skiing. If this is your first ski trip, Avondale Travel can help! We’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you plan the best ski trip possible.
Choose the Best Location
One of the first things you should do when planning a ski trip is to decide where to go. There are numerous ski resorts both nationally (Vail, Deer Valley) and internationally (Chamonix, Zermatt) available. Your resort should be based on your family’s experience. If you have a group of first-time skiers, a smaller resort might be helpful, due to smaller crowds and lower prices. If there’s a mixture of experienced and new skiers, consider a place with easy access to the terrain from the ski school drop-off. That way you can both ski by yourself and the beginners with minimal time going back and forth.
Book Lessons and Tickets in Advance
Don’t wait until you get to the resort to purchase ski lessons or lift tickets. Buying them in advance will often save you money. Also, if you’re planning on staying for a few days, see if there are multi-day passes or packages available. It’s important to do your research beforehand to ensure you get the best deal possible. To help, consider talking to an Avondale Travel travel advisor. Our connections provide us with in-the-know information and access to exclusive perks. We’ll work with you to find the right tickets and available deals for a stress-free vacation.
Prepare for the Elements
You can’t just put on a long-sleeved shirt and jeans and be ready for the elements. It’s important to be properly dressed for a ski resort, which means layers and protective gear. We suggest having a base layer, like thermal underwear, a mid-layer, and waterproof outerwear to keep you dry. For your extremities, bring wool socks and mittens, and for the protective gear, you should have helmets, goggles, and face masks. Depending on how long you stay at a resort, you should have multiple pairs of clothing for each layer.
Rent Proper Gear Early
Along with proper clothing, you’ll also need appropriate ski gear. Avondale Travel recommends you rent and pick up your gear well in advance to avoid potential crowds and diminishing supplies. First come, first serve, after all. You’ll most likely be renting skis, boots, poles, and other equipment, so don’t wait until the last minute and the rental shop doesn’t have what you want. Also, if you pick up your gear early, you’ll have time to get used to the equipment and be ready for the slopes.
Do Other Activities Besides Skiing
Just because you’re vacationing at a ski resort doesn’t mean there aren't many other activities available that do not involve skis. There are many ways to enjoy the ski resort, be it snowshoeing, ski biking, ice skating, sledding, and more. Some spots even have dog sledding or hot tubs. Having some days set aside for skiing and others for different activities offers your family a well-rounded trip that’s enjoyable for everyone. Be sure to research the resort you’ll be staying at to find out everything it has to offer. You’ll never know what you may find.
Conclusion
Ski vacations are enjoyable and offer something for the whole family. For Floridians and other southerners who aren’t used to the snow, do your research and be prepared. If you’re planning your first vacation, let Avondale Travel help. Our concierge, white-glove service, and benefits allow you to sit back and let us do the planning for you. We’ll make sure your dream vacation starts and ends on a good note.
