So you’re thinking of booking your first ever ski holiday? It can be daunting but our absolute beginners guide to skiing will break down every element of planning your first ski holiday from where to go, what to pack, ski equipment hire and ski lessons.

When Can I Go Skiing?

Depending on the altitude of your chosen ski resort the majority of ski resorts are open from early December through to the end of April. Places such as Val Thorens and Tignes in the French Alps are much higher than some resorts in Europe so their ski seasons tend to be around 5 to 6 weeks longer than most.

Ski resorts tend to be towns and villages located in valleys and on the side of mountains. They can range from small hamlets with properties built in a traditional alpine chalet style all the way through to purpose-built ski resorts that are situated at the top the mountain right on the slopes.

If you are looking for a resort with plenty of ‘apres-ski’ venues then you are typically wanting a ski resort that has a range of bars and clubs where you can enjoy a few drinks after a days skiing. Apres simply means ‘after’ so you might hear this from friends who have been skiing before. Across the French Alps, you’ll see a company called Folie Douce which has a number of bars on the slopes where you can dance on tables to live music before heading back down the mountain, keep an eye on lift times so you can make it back down the mountain before it’s too dark to see.

Popular Ski Resorts For Beginners

There is a wide range of ski resorts that are great for beginner skiers. Whether you are looking for a picturesque mountain village or a more established ski resort, there is something for everyone. Here are just 3 of our favourite beginner-friendly ski resorts, but if you’d like to discover some more great ski resorts for beginners click here.

1. Arinsal, Andorra
With one of the best ski schools in Europe, Arinsal is a popular choice with many British holidaymakers. It is also a family-friendly ski resort so if you are travelling with children it is a great place for the whole family to learn to ski.

2. Les Menuires, France
Part of the world’s largest ski area, the Three Valleys, Les Menuires is a great mixed ability ski resort. If you are travelling as part of a group then the more experienced skiers have access to over 600km of piste, while beginner skiers in Les Menuires can build their confidence on nursery slopes before exploring more of the Three Valleys.

3. Banff, Canada
The journey to Banff is worth it if you are looking for a truly magical ski holiday. Surrounded by a national park Banff is one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world. There are 3 ski areas in Banff, all of which are great for beginner skiers. If you are looking for a smaller ski area head to Mt Norquay, it may be a little less intimidating.

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What Do I Need To Pack For My First Ski Trip?

Deciding what to wear skiing when you’ve never been before can be daunting but here is our handy packing list. Here are the items you will need to buy or borrow from family and friends before you go on your first ski holiday.

1. Waterproof Ski Jacket & Ski Trousers
A normal waterproof jacket or coat will not be warm enough, you’ll need an insulated jacket and ski trousers that are both waterproof. There is a wide range of brands that create high-quality ski wear at affordable prices, these include Dare2B and Nevica (via Sports Direct) as well as many high street and online retailers.

2. Ski Socks
These should come up to/over your knee. They are warmer and thicker than normal socks. For the best fit inside your ski boot make sure there is nothing tucked inside your socks below the top of your ski boot.

3. Thermals
You want to wear thermal tops and leggings that are breathable and warm to keep you dry and comfortable on the mountain. You’ll have a miserable time if you are too cold during your ski lessons. If you are thinking of the traditional ‘what your grandad used to wear’ style thermals think again, Emmpire’92 have created functional, colourful, warm thermals for women that are perfect for moving between the slopes and the bars in resort. If you really like bright colours Burnt Custard also creates vibrant thermals with a range of patterns on offer.

4. Gloves & Hat
You’ll need waterproof ski gloves, they are normally made from either leather or Goretex and come in two different styles, mittens or jointed gloves. Don’t forget to pack a warm hat to keep your head warm when you take your helmet off during hot chocolate breaks and when you get off the slopes.

5. Boots
Trainers are not suitable in the majority of ski resorts. Often there will be snow on the ground in the village so you’ll need something warm and waterproof with a good amount of tread to help you stay upright when walking on ice/snow.

6. Backpack
This isn’t essential but it is definitely handy if you want to take an extra layer up the mountain with you or if you don’t have anywhere to store your shoes.

7. Sunglasses Or Ski Goggles
Eye protection is vital when skiing. Sunglasses are great for bright sunny days and goggles work well in low visibility, just check what type of lens you have in your goggles. If it is particularly sunny you will want sunglasses that have polarised lenses which will reduce the glare from the bright white snow. It is also important to check that your sunglasses have a good UV coating.

This list may sound expensive but the majority of these items can be found in TK Maxx, Decathlon, Sports Direct and some items may even be sold on eBay after just one or two uses.

What Equipment Do I Need To Rent In Resort?

When you arrive in resort you will need the following essential items, without them you wont be going on the slopes. Ski rental can be booked in advance or in resort when you arrive. Normally you will receive a small discount on your equipment hire if you book in advance.

1. Skis
Skis are essentially two long pieces of wood and fibreglass that you clip ski boots into and help you move across the snow. There isn’t a right or left ski, they are the same. Just make sure the rounded end of the ski goes at the front, you’ll normally find that the back end of the ski is more square. Be careful when holding your skis as the edges will be very sharp, these help you turn in the snow. Your ski boots clip into bindings in the middle of your skis.

2. Ski Boots
Boots that fit properly will make or break your ski holiday. You will have your feet measured in the hire shop, always check that you are comfortable in your boots before you leave the shop. Wear your ski socks when trying on your boots. Theses boots are unlike anything you’ve ever worn before so don’t be concerned when they feel a little strange to walk in. To connect your boots to your skis push the front of your foot into the clip closest to the top of your skis, then lower your boots towards the ground and your heel will clop into the back fastening, you'll hear a click when they are in. Make sure you keep your foot straight in line with your skis when locking into the bindings.

3. Helmet
A helmet is compulsory in many ski resorts, particularly for children. Similar to a cycling helmet, it covers your skull and straps up underneath your chin. They are fairly expensive to buy so if you’re only just starting to ski you’re better off renting a helmet in resort. They come in a range of sizes and colours, it’s simply a case of trial and error to find the right size for you. It should not be loose, or too tight on your temples. Aim to have no gap between your ski goggles and the start of your helmet, so that your forehead is covered. Even if you aren’t skiing particularly fast a helmet is a vital piece of protective equipment, you cannot control the speed of others on the slopes. It also sets a good example for younger skiers who may not want to wear a helmet.

4. Ski Poles
These are used for stability and helping you move across flatter parts of the mountain. You may not need them in your first ski lessons but they are definitely recommended and they are used by almost every skier on the mountain.

What About Ski Lessons?

Learning to ski before you arrive in resort does have its advantages. If you have taken lessons at an indoor ski centre or on a dry ski slope you will feel a little more condiment when you hit the slopes for the first time. Bear in mind that altitude and weather conditions will have an effect on the conditions of the snow so expect it to be different to an indoor ski slope.

When you arrive in resort you can have either group or private ski lessons (these can be booked in advance). But how do you choose what is right for you? If you are travelling as a group of beginner skiers then you could consider paying for a private instructor and splitting the cost between you. Group sizes normally do not exceed 6 people per private instructor.

Alternatively, if you are the only beginner skier in your party you could join a group lesson with other beginners. It can be fun learning together and you get to meet new people and learn a new sport. Please don’t be embarrassed, everyone falls over its part of the learning process, even some advanced skiers fall occasionally. Just take it slow and if you get tired let your instructor or friends know.

Regardless of whether or not you are having ski lessons you will need a lift pass to access the lifts on the mountain. This can be purchased in advance or in resort on the day. It gives you access to the ski gondola which is normally an enclosed ski lift that takes you to the top of the mountain where you will start your lessons. Once you have skied down a ski run you'll need to get on a lift back to the top of the mountain. Lifts can vary in style from a multi person chairlift, to a tow-bar and a t-bar. Your instructor will explain how to get on and off these lifts.

Can You Help Me Book My First Ski Holiday?

Destination Ski is a ski specialist travel agency that works with all major UK tour operators so even if you have seen a price with one of our suppliers online, we will be able to match it or beat it thanks to our price guarantee. If you are looking for a flexible ski trip with a short duration or perhaps you'd like to spend a few nights at the beginning or end of your holiday in a nearby city we can create bespoke ski holiday quotes based on your requirements. Our team have lived and worked in a number of ski resorts across the world from Europe to North America. We are Andorra specialists but we have also lived in many resorts in France, Austria and Canada. We hope that our absolute beginners guide to skiing has eased your mind, if you have any questions please contact our team of ski specialists on 02921 880022 or enquire here.

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