How to Survive Your First Skiing Experience at a Ski Resort

As a novice, surviving your first skiing experience at a ski resort may seem daunting. You will either be blessed with beautiful memories, or scarred for life with haunting flashbacks. You can, however, make a major difference in your first ski trip with smart planning and preparations. Here are some tips to ensure you do not just survive your first skiing experience, but have a wonderful time.

Selecting the Right Ski Resort

Search online for a ski resort with suitable terrain for beginner skiers. Look for recommended resorts with a good ski school, easy nursery slopes, and an inexpensive beginner lift pass.

It is best to start off your first skiing experience on a wide, gentle trail, accompanied by others at the same skill level. As they say, misery loves company. It is a lot more fun to stumble around and fall together, while sharing a giggle and a look of sympathy with a fellow struggling skier.

Plan your trip during the low season months of January to March, where the slopes are less crowded. This will give you the time and space needed to work on your technique. Low season prices will also be readily available, which will go easier on your pocket.

Ski Package Deals

Many ski resorts now offer Learn to Ski bundled deals for new skiers which often encompass lessons, gear rental, and a lift pass. This will save you the hassle of having to make individual arrangements, and offer significant cost savings. You can go one step further by purchasing an all-inclusive package with accommodation, meals, and après-ski activities built in for convenience and a smooth trip.

Gearing up for the Slopes

Getting fitted up for your first ski experience can be a costly affair, especially if you are unsure that this will merely be a one shot deal. It is always a good idea to check out seasonal or holiday sales at sportswear outlets or ski stores, where you can buy quality clothing at a fraction of the original price. Thrift shops or outlet stores are also a good hunting ground for bargain purchases.

An alternative option is to purchase pre-owned ski clothing from websites like eBay - you can easily find items which are rarely worn and in mint condition. Some ski stores even offer clothes for rent for those hesitant to invest fully in ski clothing.

It is advisable to dress in layers, so that you can add or remove them when needed. Avoid wearing jeans or sweat pants as outer layers; they will leave you soaking wet and miserable. Your clothing has to be warm and waterproof. Essential skiing clothing consists of the following: A warm ski jacket, thick ski pants, long underwear, warm socks, gloves, goggles, and a hat or helmet liner.

New skiers starting out in the sport often prefer to rent ski equipment. This makes financial sense when you have not decided if you like skiing at this point in time. All ski resorts have ski equipment available for rent; skis, boots, poles and helmets will often be included in Learn to Ski packages. Keep your traveling light and fuss-free without having to lug bulky ski equipment with you.

Learn from a Professional

Even if a friend offers to teach you for free, it is still wiser to build your skiing foundation properly by taking lessons from a certified ski professional. Speak to the ski instructor about your fears and concerns, and only proceed when you are comfortable with your instructor. Bring along a friend who is also new to skiing; learning together is a great motivation force, and ups the fun level.

Fuel up with Food and Water

You will be putting your body to hard work on the slopes, so do not forget to intake some snacks and drinks during ski breaks. Start your skiing day with lots of liquid or orange juice, and keep your body well hydrated. Remember, water will be your best friend and companion when skiing.

Know What to Expect

Be reasonable about what you expect to achieve on your first day on the slopes. Know this: You will fall a lot, no matter how hard you try to avoid it. Falling down is just part and parcel of the learning process, and everyone goes through it. Do not be afraid, or embarrassed when you are struggling to get up. With lots of patience and a good natured outlook, not only will you will survive your first skiing experience, you will also have a rollicking good time!

References

Doyle, Mark. "First Time Skier's Tips." About.com.

Doyle, Mark. "Save on Ski Clothing." About.com.

Doyle, Mark. "Ski Rental Equipment." About.com.