Preparing for a ski trip: gear, fitness and planning

A successful ski trip begins long before your first descent. Good preparation means you're fitter on the slopes, forget less and enjoy more. In this guide we go through the three most important parts: your gear, your fitness and practical planning.

Preparing for a ski trip starts with your gear

Warm, dry and flexible, that's the starting point in the mountains. Dress in layers, so you can easily adapt to the weather and your effort. Cotton against the skin holds moisture and cools you down, so rather choose thermal wear that wicks sweat away.

• Thermal top and thermal bottoms as a base layer.
• A warm jumper or fleece as a mid layer.
• Waterproof jacket and trousers as an outer layer.
• Gloves, hat, neck warmer and good sunglasses or ski goggles.
• High-factor sun cream and a lip balm, even when it's cloudy.
• Thick ski socks and comfortable shoes for after skiing.

If you rent your equipment, you don't have to lug skis or a board along. Arrange this in advance ideally, because in peak weeks the popular sizes go quickly.

Work on your fitness in time

Skiing and snowboarding ask more of your body than you'd think. Your legs, your core and your stamina take quite a beating, especially at altitude. Start moving a number of weeks ahead, so your muscles can handle the load and you prevent injuries.

You don't have to become a top athlete. Regular walking, cycling or climbing stairs already helps a lot. Add a few exercises that strengthen your legs and balance, like squats and lunges. Those who leave fit last longer and end the day with a big smile in the terrace chair.

Practical planning

With a bit of preparation you avoid stress on departure day. Arrange your ski pass, your insurance and any lessons well ahead. Good travel and cancellation insurance with winter-sports cover is not a luxury, because an accident is easily had.

• Check that your passport or ID card is valid.
• Arrange insurance with cover for winter sports and mountain rescue.
• Book ski pass and lessons in advance to avoid queues.
• Look at the weather and snow forecast just before departure.
• Note the opening times of the lifts and your accommodation's address.

The day itself

Set off rested and give yourself time to warm up on the slopes. Drink enough water, because at altitude you dry out faster than you notice. Take a break now and then and listen to your body, especially the first days. That way you keep the fun and energy all week.

Your packing list, your ski pass, the lesson times and your accommodation's address you keep neatly together with a travel planner like Zuvy, so you lose nothing on the road and head into the mountains carefree.