HI Hostels Blog

5 top tips for your first skiing holiday

Going on your first ski holiday can be daunting, but fear not!  We have some handy tips to have a memorable time in the snowy mountains, all you must do is work on your moves…
1.Don’t buy, rent or borrow!

alesia-kazantceva-gj80u3CgKvM-unsplashAs tempting as it may be to splurge on a chic, way over-the-top ski outfit, it is best to make sure skiing is for you first before investing in fancy gear; otherwise, you will be stuck with a ‘cool’ fluorescent quilted onesie as well as a hefty credit card bill. Borrow as much as you can or shop around for cheap basics but do invest in your own thermals and comfortable ski socks!Same goes for the ski equipment, you can rent all the kit you need at the destination and why not try out different gear each day?!

2.Get fit 6 weeks before

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Don’t underestimate just how tiring a ski holiday can be. Skiing and other winter sports activities are fun, but they are physically hard work! Keep in mind that you will be active and on your feet for at least a few hours a day. You don’t need to go to a fancy gym, there are simple and free ways you can build up your core fitness. Starting a few weeks before your trip, try walking as much as you can, take the stairs instead of the lift and even standing instead of sitting helps strengthen those leg muscles.

3.Take a lightweight rucksack

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The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so check the forecast and pack wisely for the day.

A lightweight rucksack is ideal for carrying spare clothing, a water bottle and your packed lunch..

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4.Pack wisely

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Packing light for a ski holiday can seem like an impossible task but with some careful pre-planning it can be achieved. Simple things such as packing lots of base layer items of clothing will be more useful than one bulky jumper. A high visibility, waterproof top layer is essential and a warm, absorbent base layer are a good start. Plenty of warm socks, good gloves and sunglasses/goggles are key for a comfortable experience.

 5. Enjoy skiing and follow the etiquette

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Nothing is complicated – just follow the trail rules and official notices. Safety first! Make sure you are mindful of the people around you, if you have to stop – which you will in the beginning – try to stop on the side of the slope and always ski with a buddy, in case you get lost or injured.  And remember, have fun!

Hostelling International has a wide array of ski hostels with special deals to choose from all over the world.  For example, Interlaken Youth Hostel in Switzerland  offers you the WINTELRAKEN CARD which includes attractive extras from a range of partners.

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