First time at the snow!
First time at the snow blog
We’ve been making our way to the Australian resorts for over 30 years and we’d like to think we know a thing or two about planning snow trips.
So if you’re thinking about heading to the mountains for the first time then we’ve got these 3 tips for you!
1. Before you leave, get the right gear!
You don’t have to spend your whole paycheque when you’re heading to the snow for the first time, especially when you want to make sure you’re investing in something you enjoy!
So, it’s best to try before you buy.
You can rent the big-ticket items like equipment and outerwear when you get to the resort but there will be some things you’ll need to take. Be sure to come prepared by bringing a good quality base layer set and another warm layer like a microfleece. The trick to staying warm and dry all day comes down to how you layer.
You’ll also need to get yourself some good quality socks, gloves or mitts, goggles, neck warmers and a beanie. You can print out the handy checklist we’ve made so you don’t forget anything!
If you’re just heading up for a day trip it’s a great idea to pack a spare outfit for the drive home so you don’t have to sit in cold and wet clothes.
2. Getting to the resort
Depending on which resort you’re heading to it’s important that you’ve done your research. Make sure you know the best route, whether the roads will be clear and if not, which way you should take. Bring chains for your tyres, especially if you’re staying overnight.
Be sure to check what extra costs there might be, such as resort entry fees or transport from the carpark if you’re staying overnight, it’s always handy to carry cash in your purse for these situations.
3. Once you’re there
If you’re up for the day make sure you rent yourself a locker, so you don’t have to lug around a backpack full of gear you won’t need until the end of the day. Otherwise keep the non-essentials in your accommodation.
The most important thing you can do on your first snow trip is book yourself a lesson!
Whether your skiing or snowboarding it’s important that you learn the basics from someone who is experienced and can guide you through the steps. Most resorts offer a lift ticket package for first timers where the ticket price includes a lesson. Plus, the instructors will give you the confidence you need when it comes to loading and unloading chairlifts for the first time.
Checklist for the perfect snow trip:
Before you leave make sure you have:
A warm jacket to wear around the resort
Base layer set – merino or poly-spandex blend
A warm mid layer – like a microfleece or a thick jumper
Ski socks – bring extra in case your feet get wet
Beanies
Neck warmer or neck tube – bring a spare one so you can layer up or replace a wet one
Mitts or gloves – bring a spare set in case your hands get soaked
Goggles
Sunglasses
Sturdy boots with a tough grip sole
A lip balm with SPF
Sunscreen – just because it’s winter it doesn’t mean you can’t get sunburnt!
For the car:
Healthy snacks – for the trip and also for your jacket pocket
Plenty of water – it’s easy to get dehydrated in the mountains with the altitude!
Cash – nearly everywhere has EFTPOS but you may need some cash on hand to cover any transportation costs once you’re in the resort
Chains for your tyres
A shovel – if there’s snow on the forecast you might need to dig out your tyres before you leave
A spare change of clothes for the trip home
At the resort:
Make sure you keep your lift pass in a separate pocket to your bank card – the ticket scanners won’t be able to register your pass and you’ll get held up at the gate, so keep them separate!
Put a note in your phone on where you parked – on busy days the carparks get jampacked, so avoid getting confused by noting down the carpark name
Apply that sunscreen you packed!
