Are you planning to go skiing for the first time? You have snowy mountain views, cosy chalets and hours spent on the slopes to look forward to.
But before you make your way to your resort, there are some key considerations – especially if you’re traveling with children or if it’s your first attempt at an activity-led holiday.
By taking the time to find out what’s in store, you arrive feeling calmer and ready to enjoy the experience.
Choosing the right resort for beginners
Your first experience of skiing will come down to the resort you choose. Beginners progress quickly when resorts design their slopes and facilities around the learning process. You benefit from gentle nursery areas and wide blue runs.
English-speaking ski schools are also a key factor when it comes to where you choose to go, particularly if you have children who will be attending group lessons. Beginner-friendly lift passes also help, as you avoid paying for terrain you can’t access.
There are plenty of resorts in France, Andorra, Austria and Italy that cater well to first-timers.
Top tip: Research piste maps and ski school options before booking.
Preparing proper gear and clothing
Keeping comfortable on the slopes is essential, and how comfortable you are depends on choosing the right layers. Waterproof jackets and trousers protect you during falls and snowy conditions, while thermal base layers regulate your body temperature.
Think about the details too. Gloves, helmets and proper ski socks support both safety and stamina, especially for children who spend long days outside.
Hiring skis and boots at the resort often works better for beginners because shops adjust equipment to ability and height, saving you from paying for gear that’s not quite right. Borrowing items like helmets or goggles from friends also keeps spending under control while you learn what suits you.
Top tip: Focus on fit and waterproof ratings when choosing clothing.
Budgeting, booking early and finding deals
If you want to go skiing as a family, you’ll find that school holiday periods such as Christmas, New Year, February half term and Easter sell out quickly. This popularity means these dates are usually more expensive than those that fall during term time.
Early booking bags you better flight times, suitable accommodation near ski schools and lessons that match your level. Package deals often bundle lift passes, equipment hire and tuition, which simplifies budgeting and avoids surprise costs once you arrive. Check what’s included when you book your Italy ski holiday or your trip to France – you’ll find that a lot of the details are taken care of.
You’ll also need to remember to take out insurance. Make sure your policy includes winter sports cover.
Top tip: Set a total budget early and compare packages rather than individual elements.
What to expect when learning to ski
First-time skiing challenges both your body and your patience. Here are some key points to be aware of before you arrive at your resort:
- Your legs work muscles they rarely use, and progress feels uneven during the first few days.
- Professional lessons matter because instructors teach safe techniques, help you fall correctly, and build skills step by step.
- Group lessons suit sociable learners, while private sessions accelerate confidence if nerves run high.
Ski resorts also offer winter walking, sledging and cafés, which give everyone in your group some breathing space away from the slopes. Remember that learning takes time, but the experience is rewarding once you master the slopes.
Dmitri 
Lily