Here I am stating some different tips you can have in mind to planning your ski trip, so it is a success.

1. **Plan Ahead**. Practical Tips for Planning your Ski Trip.

– Book flights and accommodation several months in advance. Prices are usually lower and you can be sure of availability, especially in high season. You can check rates on Booking.com which usually is pretty good. They have also rental cards, flights, transfers and activities. Just go to Booking and check it out.

– Look for packages that include accommodation, ski passes and rental equipment. These are sometimes cheaper than booking everything separately. There are lots of great ski tour operators. It is best to use one in your country if you want to book air through them. If you book air on your own, you can use any bed bank to plan your travel. Just check that the tour operator is accredited through the local entity, such as ASTA, ABTA, etc. You want them to be bonded should anything happens that the company goes bust, and at least the government takes care of what you’ve paid.

2. **Transport** Practical Tips for Planning your Ski Trip.

– **By Plane**: From the UK, look for flights to cities close to ski resorts. For example, fly to Geneva, Milan, Venice, Innsbruck, Zurich or Lyon for the Alps or Denver for Colorado and Salt Lake City for Utah. Then, rent a car or take a transfer to the resort.

– **By Car**: If you’re up for driving, you can take the ferry from Dover to Calais, or take the Eurotunnel (where you put your car on a train to cross the Channel Tunnel), and then continue by road to the Alps. It’s a cheaper option but takes longer.

– **By Train**: In Europe, the train is an ecological and comfortable option. You can take the Eurostar from London to Paris and then continue to the Alps. There are some “Snow Trains” in season, so see if that’s a good option for you.

3. **Accommodation**  Practical Tips for Planning your Ski Trip.

– Opt for apartments or chalets instead of hotels. They’re cheaper and have kitchens, which allows you to save on meals.

– Look for options that offer activities for children, such as nurseries or beginner ski lessons.

4. **Ski Equipment**:

– Rent equipment at the ski resort instead of bringing it from home. It’s easier and, in many cases, cheaper in Europe. In the United States, be careful because equipment rentals can be quite expensive. See if you can carry your skis as a piece of equipment. Some airlines will cover you two bags of up to 32 kg but many nowadays give you only an option to carry one bag of 23 kg. See how much is to carry skis as an extra and make your maths. Estimate how expensive is to book your rentals in resort.

– If you are going to ski several times a year, it may be worth it to buy the equipment, but for a one-time trip, renting is the best.

5. **Food and Shopping**  Practical Tips for Planning your Ski Trip.

– Shop at local supermarkets to save on food. If you are driving, it is a good idea to do a big purchase at a hypermarket before going more near your final destination, as prices will be cheaper the further of the lifts you are.  You can bring snacks and lunches for the mountain.

– Many ski resorts have discount stores where you can buy equipment at lower prices.

### Recommended Destinations – Practical Tips for Planning your Ski Trip.

 

 

#### In the Alps

 

1. **Val Thorens, France**:

– **Accessibility**: Easy access from Geneva or Lyon. You can also get there by train to Moutiers and then by bus.

– **For Families**: It has a special area for beginners and children, and several family-friendly accommodation options.

– **Activities**: In addition to skiing, there are activities like sledding and snowmobiling.

Look for lodging in Val Thorens. 

 

**Sölden, Austria**:

– **Accessibility**: From Munich or Innsbruck, easy to get to by car or bus.

– **Family Friendly**: Offers ski schools for kids and easy slopes. There are also daycares and activities for the little ones.

– **Activities**: In addition to skiing, you can enjoy sleigh rides and access to the Freizeit Arena, with an indoor pool and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Look for lodging in Sölden. 

#### In the United States

 

1. **Breckenridge, Colorado**:

– **Accessibility**: From Denver, about 2 hours by car or direct transfers.

– **Family Friendly**: Has slopes for all levels and a special area for beginners. There are many family-friendly accommodation options.

– **Activities**: In addition to skiing, you can go tubing, gondola rides, and visit the historic town of Breckenridge.

Look for lodging in Breckenridge. 

2. **Park City, Utah**:

– **Accessibility**: From Salt Lake City, it’s just a 35-minute drive.

– **Family Friendly**: Offers ski lessons for kids and beginner slopes. There are plenty of accommodations with family-friendly amenities.

– **Activities**: In addition to skiing, you can enjoy sleigh rides and visits to Park City’s historic Main Street.

Look for lodging in Park City.

### Final Tips

 

– **Travel Insurance**: Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance that covers ski activities. It’s essential for any unforeseen events.

– **Weather and Gear**: Always check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing. Layers are key to staying warm and dry. Remember sunscreen!

– **Family Fun**: Remember that the goal is to enjoy with the family. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and take time to relax and enjoy the activities that each destination offers.