Top dos and don’ts of a snowy ski holiday

Looking for an alternative to the beach and bikini vibes for your next family getaway? Swap your flip flops for a pair of skis and ride the slopes in France or Italy instead! While you’re at it, we’ve got some “dos and don’ts” when it comes to planning your snowy European mountain escape — starting with guaranteed savings of 15% when you book an alpine adventure with Sure Travel and Club Med (definitely a DO!).

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DO: Book a high-altitude resort if you’re travelling early in the season

Chances are if you have kids, you’ll be restricted to travelling when school’s out in December or early January. If that’s the case, take note of your intended resort’s altitude. Snow’s been falling later every year, meaning some of the lower slopes yield more slush than powder.

The dizzy heights of Val Thorens, French Alps

France, Italy and Switzerland are always a good bet for optimal conditions throughout the season. Club Med – one of the world’s leading all-inclusive ski operators – has 22 different resort options in France, Italy and Switzerland. The majority of the resorts are in France, including Val Thorens (Europe’s highest ski resort at 2,300m above sea level). These resorts cater to all abilities, including blue runs for rookies and ungroomed “off-piste” slopes for the more advanced.

The picture-perfect Pragelato Sestriere resort, Italy

Meanwhile in Italy, Club Med's Pragelato Sestriere resort in the Piedmont region is a contemporary ski resort that has hosted the ski jumping and cross country skiing events in the 2006 Turin Olympics, and is ideally positioned to give your family the ski holiday of a lifetime.

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DON’T: Stay somewhere that’s far from the hills with no “ski in and ski out” option

Forget hauling heavy gear from A to B — save your energy for the day of skiing or snow boarding by choosing a resort where you can wear your equipment out of your room and straight onto a ski lift or gondola.

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DO: Look for all-age activities if you’re travelling with family

Not only will a family ski holiday keep you active (rather than lounging by the pool and snacking all day), it’s a great way to learn new skills and bond with your family.

The best ski resorts have beginners’ classes for all ages, as well as alternative activities for those in the group who aren’t interested in the slalom. Try out ice skating, snow tubing, hiking or snowshoeing — or if cosy indoor activities are more your thing, relax at the spa or a heated pool.

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DON’T: Skip the après ski

You’re burning so many calories skiing that a little all-inclusive holiday indulgence won’t hurt (your waistline or wallet)! Club Med knows the meaning of “eat, drink and be merry”.

We’re talking decadent waffles, pancakes and local cheeses for breakfast; comfort food lunches and afternoon tea; fondue and steak tartare, as well as a kids’ menu to please the pickiest of gourmands. Yum!

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DO: Opt for all-inclusive for the best value

All the tasty food and drinks listed above are a good reminder why you’ll want to book an all-inclusive getaway. Not having to worry about spending money or surprise additional costs is a huge reason this type of travel is so convenient for families, honeymooners or groups.

All-inclusive ski holidays typically include flights, hotel, food, equipment hire and lift passes, meaning you’ll never blow your budget with holiday impulse spends.

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DON’T: Pack last minute

If this is your first time to a cold winter climate, you might not know how to pack for -15 to -10 weather. Do your research and invest (or borrow) some suitable kit.

Although boots, skis, poles and a helmet are included with your ski package, you’ll still need to pack a waterproof ski jacket, waterproof gloves, non-slip boots (for when you’re not on the slopes), a hat that covers your ears, thermal socks, a scarf or buff to cover your neck and mouth, sun cream, and goggles or sunglasses.

And rather than dressing too warm under your jacket, consider that you’ll actually be getting quite the workout. Wear thin layers so you can unzip and cool off as you heat up.

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DON’T: Neglect local culture

Have a little extra time before or after your ski week? France is a country of culture and art, medieval and port cities, tranquil villages, mountains and beaches. There's the Eiffel Tower, Louvre museum, French Riviera, haute couture, gourmet cuisine, pastries and so much more. Venture into the local cities and towns to soak up as much of the “art-de-vivre” (and wine) as you can find.

Likewise, Italy has some of the world’s best food (pizza, pasta, gelato, espresso and tiramisu), along with thousands of years of history — including gladiators, aqueducts, and empires that stretched to the ends of the earth.

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