1. Choosing a Ski Resort
This is the most important step of all—after all, without it, there’d be no trip. You need to be clear on a few things like budget, skiing level, and who you’re travelling with. It’s not the same having to stick to a tight budget as it is when money isn’t a concern, just as it’s not the same being a beginner versus an expert, or going with friends versus children.
Once you’ve got these aspects under control, it’s time to get down to business. There are various ski resorts in Spain and across Europe, and you can find very affordable options.
If you’re travelling with little ones, you might want to opt for a family-friendly resort, like Vallnord, where there are ski lessons for kids, play areas where you can leave them while you hit the slopes, and more. There are also places like Grandvalira, where the whole family can enjoy a variety of activities and sports together, such as igloo-building, mushing, or tubbing.
Depending on your skill level, it’s best to choose a resort with a good number of slopes suited to your ability: if you’re a beginner, look for more green runs, and if you’re an expert, the more black runs, the better.
2. Choosing Accommodation
Once you’ve settled on a ski resort, the next step is picking accommodation that aligns with your available dates.
The type of accommodation will depend on who you’re travelling with. It’s not the same going as a couple or a small group as it is with family or a large group of friends. Your budget will also play a role, as options range from hostels and guesthouses to apartments and 5* hotels.
You can stay slopeside (which tends to be pricier) or further away (saving money but requiring transport to the slopes—so weigh up whether the savings are worth it).
If you’re with children, it’s best to stay as close to the slopes as possible and choose a place with a transfer service (private bus, minibus, or van) directly to your hotel in case the little ones get too tired to continue.
3. Choosing Transport
Many places offer all-inclusive packages with accommodation+transport+lift pass, but organising it yourself could save you some money.
This depends on two things: once again, your budget and how far the resort is. Travelling from Madrid to Sierra Nevada isn’t the same as going to Andorra or the Alps—especially if you’re bringing your own gear.
Many people opt for the convenience of flying, as you can often find cheap flights and save a lot of travel time. But plenty of skiers prefer driving (or taking a van, depending on group size).
4. Getting Around Your Destination
Here, the key factor is the distance between your accommodation and the slopes. If you’re driving, you’re sorted—otherwise, you’ll need to rent a vehicle (highly recommended with full-coverage insurance) or use transfers/public transport.
Don’t forget to hire a ski rack to transport your gear if the resort doesn’t offer ski storage.
5. What About Ski/Snowboard Equipment?
If you have your own, by all means bring it. But keep in mind that transporting it can add to the cost (unless you’re using your own vehicle).
If renting on-site, many resorts offer online equipment rental services, so you can book about a week in advance to avoid missing out. It’s also wise to take out separate insurance in case of loss, theft, or damage. It’s not expensive and could save you from hefty replacement fees.
Other Recommendations
- Before organising a ski trip, check the weather conditions. It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to assume there’ll be snow at a certain time or that conditions will be perfect—only for things to fall through last minute.
- Don’t hesitate to get travel insurance. It’s quite affordable (you can find policies for around £25 a week) and covers everything from slope accidents to hospitalisations, lost luggage, or flight cancellations. If travelling outside the UK, consider getting a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Do your research!
- Plan your trip thoroughly: scope out restaurants, car parks, slopes, resort facilities, routes, etc.
- Locate supermarkets near your accommodation. Booking a place with breakfast and dinner included is handy, but if you’re on a budget, buying groceries and cooking yourself can save money.
- Don’t forget snow chains. Whether using your own car or a rental, always carry snow chains for the tyres.
