Tips for First Time Skiing

Because you're new to the sport, "when" you go isn't as important. All you need is a ski resort with reliable snowmaking and temperatures above 20 °F and below 60 °F as it is difficult to learn to ski when it’s either too cold or the snow is slushy like quicksand. If possible, it’s recommended to avoid holiday periods like Christmas, which are the most crowded and expensive periods.

You don't need terrain or powder or high-speed lifts if you've never skied before, save those destination ski vacations at Colorado, Utah, or Lake Tahoe for later. You just need a ski resort with around 25% beginner terrain and 40% intermediate, a phenomenal ski school, and good massage therapists. Some beginner-friendly ski resorts are Buttermilk Ski Resort, Snowbird, and Heavenly Ski Resort.

If you have some non-skiers in your family or group, pick a ski resort with other activities like shopping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, spas, and snow tubing. Check out our list of the best ski resorts for non-skiers in North America.

There are a few things you need to plan in advance, besides lodging and flights, to make the most of your ski vacation. 

You should book lessons, either group and private, as soon as possible since it is essential for a first timer. The best instructors book out early, and group lessons can sell out on holidays and weekends. When you book your lesson(s), ask for a PSIA level 2 or higher instructor (or the Euro equivalent). PSIA level 1s have very little training or mountain experience at the particular resort. They are great for the kinders but not for adults.

Most ski resorts have efficient and free local transportation so you can book a shared shuttle bus from the airport then take the free bus to get around the resort. If you are staying at a nearby city or town like Salt Lake City, you will need to get rent an all-wheel-drive car.

As a first timer, you do not need to purchase ski or snowboard equipment for your ski trip. Purchasing your own equipment is expensive and heavy to bring around so it’s only recommended if you are committed to the sport. Instead, rent your ski or snowboarding equipment through a local rental shop. You can switch out after the first run if you must. 

If you want a nice night out at a popular spot, make reservations so you don’t have to wait. You can ask your ski instructor and other locals for recommendations first. Dining in a ski town can be expensive so plan wisely.

Skiing is gear intensive. In addition to the bikini for the hot tub and sunscreen, you'll want thick socks, baselayers, mid layers, outer layers, gloves, helmet, cute hats, goggles, waterproof after-ski boots, and casual clothes for walking around town and dining. If you don't have a washer and dryer in your room then bring multiple sets of socks and baselayers. Don't wear jeans and don't wear anything cotton as once they get wet, they stay wet and clammy on you all day. Also, make sure those ski outer layers are waterproof. 

For more detailed information on what to bring see What to Pack for a Ski Trip and Ski Trip Packing List.

You may get altitude sickness once you arrive at the base of a ski area. Some symptoms include a pounding headache and strained breathing, which can ruin a vacation. Usually the base of a ski resort will be quite a high altitude unless you're skiing in Alaska or Pennsylvania. Drink lots of water, avoid caffeine and hot tubs, and get tons of rest before your first day on the slopes. Alternatively, try to avoid high altitude mountains when selecting the ski resort.

Purchase your lift tickets online in advance for the days you will be skiing for. The online ticket prices are usually lower than the prices at the ticket window plus if the resort has pickup boxes or the lift tickets can be delivered, then you will save time from waiting in line. Some ski resorts, like Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, limit the number of lift tickets sold for each day so you should consider this to avoid missing out, especially if you are travelling during peak periods or holiday dates. 

With our 5 tips, your winter getaway planning should go a lot smoother. If you are still confused or lost on where to start, SnowPak is a mountain travel company specializing in ski trips and can help you plan your ski vacation for you. You can customizable a ski vacation package that bundles lodging with lift tickets, rentals, and/or transfers, and leave the difficult planning to them.

A winter trip leads you to cities and countries around the world and introduces you to some of the most amazing folks you wouldn't have met otherwise. It spans generations and makes memories of a lifetime. It's about time you packed those bags for the snow.