It’s not just children who are taking to the slopes for the first time.  Adults, too, love to learn a new skill.

Here are our top tips

What To Wear
Don’t splash out on ski gear.  Borrow from friends – for the first year at least – or choose a company that includes ski clothing rental within your package.  You’ll probably prefer to buy your own thermals and ski socks though!   Your ski suit needs to be waterproof and warm to make your experience as enjoyable as possible.

Ski School
Don’t be tempted to let friends and family teach you!  You’ll either fall out or injure yourself! Choose a company that has a British ski school, or, at the very minimum, English-speaking instructors.  Learning in a group with other beginners is ideal (and more fun!), or opt for 1:1 private lessons.

Book A Package
If you’re not experienced, don’t even try to put ski holidays together on your own!  Choose a package that includes all elements – transport, accommodation, insurance, lift pass, equipment, tuition.  It’s far less stressful! Why not have a look at one of Interski’s fully inclusive ski holidays?

Keep Your Money Safe
Ensure that the company you book with is an ABTA member and, if flying, an ATOL holder.  That way, you will have complete peace of mind, knowing your money is safe.

Quiet Slopes
Not tied to school holidays?  That’s excellent news.  You’ll feel so much more confident on the mountain when the slopes are quiet and you’ll also benefit from much cheaper prices. January is normally a good month to go, but the weather can be colder. March is typically a good trade off between slightly warmer weather and quiet slopes (but avoid Easter if it falls early!).

Choose A Beginner-Friendly Resort
It doesn’t need to be a big resort.  It’s more important that the resort you choose is beginner-friendly.  Particularly good for beginners are Pila and La Thuile in the Aosta Valley, NW Italy.

Holiday Insurance
Let’s not beat about the bush – accidents can happen.  It is absolutely vital that you have proper winter sports insurance which covers all eventualities.  If in doubt, choose a company that includes insurance within the package.

Get Fit
Skiing can be physically demanding, especially when you’re learning.  Don’t waste all that money you’ve paid for your holiday by not being in tip top condition.  It’s your legs that will suffer the most.  If you’re not a gym-bunny, then use the stairs, cycle, power walk, jog as much as you can, and practise those squats.  It’s definitely worth it!

Visit A UK Slope
Try out a taster session or two at a slope near you.  It will give you an idea of what it’s all about, and how to put your boots on and fit your skis.  There’s nothing as good as the REAL thing, but at least it means you’ll progress a bit quicker when you do get to resort.

All Ages Welcome!
No using age as an excuse not to give skiing a go! You can start at any age as long as you are reasonably fit.  Set realistic goals – don’t put pressure on yourself – and enjoy the experience!

And Finally
Just give it a go.  Don’t be intimidated. Don’t be scared of falling over – it’s part of the fun, after all.  Your confidence will soon build and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it years ago!  Have fun!