Expert top tips for planning the perfect ski holiday
Holiday Provider, Holiday Best have provided their expert insight into how to book the perfect ski holiday. John Milburn, Chief Marketing Officer at Holiday Best, has provided his tips on how to ensure the ski holiday is a success.
According to Holiday Best, the prime period for skiing conditions is early February. John comments: “We see optimal skiing conditions in early to mid-February thanks to peak powder conditions, good visibility, and generally regular snowfall throughout January. So, no matter your ability on the slopes, February is pretty much the ideal time to head out.”
The top tips include:
- Check snow conditions regularly
Monitor snow reports and weather forecasts to stay updated snow conditions at your preferred ski resort.
John Milburn advises: “Each resort is likely to have their own webcams and lift apps. Visitors should check these regularly to see the snowfall, wind speed, temperatures, visibility and lift opening times for each day. They can also use websites like snow-forecast.com for real-time updates.”
- Check ski runs available and pass offerings
When booking a ski holiday investigate the ski run and pass offerings available. Most skiers normally purchase a ski pass for 5 days (if staying for a week), but the price of each pass will vary depending on how many resorts you wish to ski in.
- Check insurance
Ensure you have travel insurance when skiing. Some passes provide the option to purchase daily insurance and in France and Switzerland this guarantees helicopter transport to the nearest hospital. Whereas regular Snowsport insurance doesn’t guarantee this, so John Milburn urges travellers to check their insurance details and ensure they’re covered in all circumstances.
- Plan strategically
Consider specific dates you want to book. Visiting for a long weekend as opposed to a week can often provide a better experience as the slopes are less busy: it’s only really locals that tend to only ski on weekends, whereas tourists ski Monday to Friday, with changeover day being Saturdays.
Another key tip is to plan around ski schools, particularly when visiting in school holidays. “Most ski schools take a long lunch between the hours of 12 to 2pm, meaning the slopes are much quieter at these times,” John from Holiday Best comments.
- Book flights and accommodation as early as possible
Booking flights (and accommodation) in advance can secure significant discounts. Popular ski resorts can fill up very quickly, particularly during school holidays.
A package holiday from London to France for 3 nights in February 2025 ranges from £323 per person to £619. Whereas the same dates, location, and number of nights ranges for February this year ranges from £251 to £1,197pp. That’s potentially a 93% increase!
- Get geared up
One of the most important things to consider when booking a ski holiday is the ski gear you have. Advanced and regular skiers often have their own skis, helmets and boots. If you are a first-time skier, or just planning on only skiing infrequently – you can hire equipment from the local ski shops in any resort.
John recommends setting up an account with a ski shop and pre-ordering the equipment needed. “The ski shop staff will take your weight and height (and ski level) when selecting your ski’s so make sure you know these!”
For the best skiing holiday deals, find out more about Holiday Best’s offers here.
