Whether you are completely new to winter sports and heading out on your first skiing or snowboarding holiday, or you’ve been a few times but just want to ensure you make the most of your time on the slopes, these top tips for a winter sports holiday are for you! Take a read and head off on holiday fully prepared! Do you have any tips to add? Remember to share them with us at the end of the post.
Practise
The saying that “Practice Makes Perfect” is so well known because it’s true! If you have booked your very first winter sports holiday, apply this mantra and get some practice in at a dry slope before you go. Learning something new can be time consuming and even a little frustrating at the best of times, so it makes sense to get to grips with the equipment and techniques in advance. A few practice sessions will add a little more to the overall cost, but it will be worth it when you arrive at your destination confident and ready to go and have fun!
Equipment
If you will be hiring equipment when you arrive at your resort, it can be worthwhile to visit a winter sports shop before you go to familiarise yourself with the various equipment. This will not only save time when you arrive, but also gives you the opportunity to work out how things should feel, what size you are likely to need and how the various equipment works.
Fitness
Skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports are physically demanding activities, often seeing you out on the slopes for hours at a time, using muscles you probably didn’t even realise you had. Most of us don’t participate in such a hefty amount of physical activity on a daily basis so it’s worthwhile improving your fitness levels slightly before you head off on holiday, paying particular attention to your legs. This way, you will be more likely to avoid sore muscles at the end of every day and reduce your chances of injury.
Insurance
Did you know that standard travel insurance often won’t cover you if you plan on participating in winter sports on holiday? More often than not, you have to purchase a specific policy. The price of your policy, unfortunately, will usually see an increase, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind that you are covered for any potential mishap. Despite this, be sure to check the terms and conditions thoroughly before purchasing to check for any limitations. For example, Essential Travel recently advised that it is compulsory to wear a helmet on the slopes or you won’t be insured!
Safety
We don’t mean to sound like your mum, but winter sports, whilst fun, do have an element of risk. Be aware of other skiers and snowboarders around you (they may be oblivious to you!), follow safety procedures at the resort and check any available avalanche information. It’s easy to carried away, so be sure you only tackle runs that are suited to your ability too.
Visit the FCO website for more information on staying safe on the slopes.
So, next time you head on the slopes, take note of these tips and have an excellent winter sports holiday.
What tips do you have for a winter sports holiday?
