Ski trips are a bunch of fun but take better preparation and can seem daunting, specially if this is your first Ski vacation. With our experience, we have tried to provide several tips to help get you on the slopes
You will need more than just a baiting suit for this vacation, so what do you pack
·Skin-tight, thermal underwear/layers, such as Under Armour shirts and pants
·Ankle socks and thick knee socks, also known as ski socks
·Toe warmers
·Turtlenecks
·Waterproof ski pants (preferably with suspenders)
·Gloves and mittens
·Ski goggles
·Face mask that covers your entire face except for your eyes (ski goggles will cover which)
·Head warmer to wear under helmet—covers your entire head, and cheeks, ears and neck
·Walkie Talkie to communicate with family members on the mountain (cell reception can be scarce on the slopes)
What to Rent at the Resort If you own your own equipment and driving to your resort then skip, but if you are flying to a resort, we highly consider renting your equipment.
·Skis – A staff member will fit you according to your height and your skill level.
·Snowboards – Again, a staff member will match you up with a board that is best for your size.
·Boots – Be sure to try them on with both your ski socks on to ensure they fit.
·Poles – Beginners don’t need ski poles right away—it’s easier to navigate the powder without them (and when you’re ready, you can go back and rent a pair later in the day or the trip).
·Helmets – Everyone will have to wear a helmet, yes it may
What to Do Before Hitting the Slopes
1. Pack a lunch + Snacks. It will amaze you how many calories you will burn on 1 run, so bring snacks (crackers + Meat slices + Chocolate bars and more) have a sufficient amount to give your kids 1–3 snacks per day as they and you will need them.
2. Find a map. Pick up maps of the mountain, this will help you determine where to start your day and where to end your last run, plan for 15–25 runs per day. Also, Green dots signify beginner trails, blue squares signify intermediate trails, and black diamonds signify expert trails. It’s also might be well to designate a meeting point and time in which to reconvene.
3. Go to the locker room. Your hotel has a locker room so use it if you can but if not, then locate the locker room to store belongings while on the mountain. Lockers are typically coin-operated and a change machine should be located nearby.
4. Head to the ticket booth. Find the nearest lift ticket booth to pick up your already purchased passes (you can pre-purchase lift tickets online before your arrival, which will save time and avoid lines at the resort). Then head to the rental shop to pick up your equipment (equipment can also be rented in advance at a shop offsite).
5. Hit the slopes! Head to your designated area, whether it be the ski school meeting place or the nearest chairlift, and prepare for a day of fun. Carrying poles, be sure to hold them in one hand when gearing up to sit on the chairlift—that way you can use your other hand to grab onto the chairlift.
6. Remember to take a break. If you get tired and want to take a break from the slopes, ski resorts often have other activities like snow tubing, ice skating and snowshoeing. If you are new to skiing, take it easy for the first few days, and don’t overdo it.
Lessons
You’ll want to take a lesson before braving your first trail. We recommend booking lessons ahead of time, as they tend to fill up quickly. This will also give you one less thing to worry about upon arriving to the mountain. Most ski resorts offer lessons for all ages, usually in these variations:
Kids’ Lessons These lessons are usually offered to big groups (separated by age) and usually take place in half- or full-day (six hours) sessions. They typically include lift tickets in the price of these lessons.
Teen Programs
Programs vary by resort, but teens between age 13 and 16 usually learn together in all-day (six hours) programs that might include a group lesson, lift tickets, lunch, and snacks.
Childcare
Childcare is available at many resorts, and it’s typically recommended that you pass your youngsters off with a full change of clothes, diapers, food, indoor footwear, their favorite blankets or stuffed animals, and clothes for the chilly outdoors. Some resorts pair childcare with beginner lessons.
Day’s End
Store your skis in the locker you snagged at the start of the day, and head to the base lodge for some snack, refreshing cocktails and relaxation in the hot tub. Many ski lodges offer activities, such as pool tables, along with live entertainment.
Ski report's we recommend
1. Mont Tremblant (Eastern Canada) https://www.tremblant.ca/ - Our Favorite resort at Tremblant is Holiday Inn Tremblant
2. Cap Tremblant - This way you can ski at Mont Tremblant or Mont Blanc
Cap Tremblant 1 - 5 bedroom chalets
3. Sugar Bush Resort (Vermont) Find info Here Offers incredible skiing and great location
4. Smuggler Notch (Vermont) Find info here - One of the best family hills for new beginners
5. Jay Peaks - So much to offer on and off the hill, including a FULL Indoor water park. Find out more here