The Whiteout Ski Podcast: Beginner Skiing Special

(Rob):

Hi, everyone, and welcome to The Whiteout Ski Podcast! This week, we're kicking off something super exciting—a four-part mini-series Skiing 101 in association with Crystal Ski Holidays - essentially everything you need to know about getting started in skiing.

(Dom):
 That’s right! Over the next 4 episodes, we’ll be breaking down everything you need to know before you even think about hitting the slopes. 

Todays episode will cover things like understanding the needs of the people going, thinking about kids and adults alike, the budget, resort options, travel options, essential packing lists and what else you can do before going skiing to guarantee a great holiday.  

ROB

Thats right then in episode 2 we will hone in on the resort choices according to your needs,  what a great ski holiday looks like to you, e.g. apres and gastronomic highlights or something more low key and self catered, we will also delve more into the budget busting and better value resorts,  as well as exploring the different accommodation choices…  

Dom

Thats right rob but for now, this episode will be an introductory focus on what to consider for your first ski holiday.

(Rob):
Thats right and  If you're feeling a little overwhelmed about your first ski trip, don’t worry—we’re here to help guide you through it in association with our trusted partner Crystal, they've been in the business for over 40 years and taken thousands of people on their first and subsequent ski holidays, so what these guys don't know about a ski holiday isn't worth knowing. Everything can be wrapped up into one easy ski package so all the hard work and thinking gets taken care of by them which is super handy when you are booking your first trip. 

By the end of this mini-series, you'll feel confident and prepared for the slopes, knowing exactly what to expect from your first ski holiday.

(Dom):
 Good stuff, Rob! So, let’s get started.

So first up - WHAT TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR FIRST HOLIDAY 

So here we are  specifically thinking about understanding the needs of your travel party. 

It sounds simple, but when you’re trying to keep everyone happy, it’s crucial to take a moment to think about who’s in your group. Are you bringing along kids, older adults, or people with different needs or abilities? The last thing you want is for someone to feel left out or miserable—especially when you’re all there to have probably the best holiday you've ever had.

ROB:
Absolutely! So First up—kids. If you’ve got really young ones in tow ie under 5, you need to plan accordingly. And we’re not talking about just throwing them in a ski suit and hoping for the best. Trust me, I’ve tried it—didn’t end well.

So here we are talking childcare,and ski schools that cater for super young children and learning zones to practice on after ski school

And for those in the 5 to 12 age range, you are more thinking ski schools and dedicated children’s areas. Ski schools for kids—which essentially is just 24x7 fun for kids on the snow. Some resorts even offer après-ski activities like sledging and snow parks that you cna enjoy as a family, once the ski day’s over. So we will delve into this further later on at the moment we are just giving you things to think about before you start planning.

DOM:
Then, at the other end of the scale,  if you’ve got adults in your group—they might be just there for the scenery—don’t forget to factor in fitness and mobility. Not everyone’s up for throwing themselves down a hill skiing so you might want to consider more chocolate box resorts, great scenery and somewhere they can hang out and even see you or the kids progressing in the nursery flat zones.

ROB

Whilst considering all this you might also want to think about things like evenings, do you want to all hang out together and cook as friends / families altogether, or will you want to dine out and leave the kids with kids club, its all very easy to arrange but just worth considering at this early stage of planning. 

DOM

Then lets think Budget - travel, accommodation, lift passes, equipment hire, lessons, food and drink, so you need to understand is this a trip that budget doesnt matter or are you trying to fit within a reasonable budget, Crystal sponsors of this series are super keen to encourage beginners to get skiing, and offer flights, transfers and accommodation to take out the hassle of trying to peace all this together, then you can add ski extras such as lift pass, equipment hire and ski school as you get further down the line. This really takes the pain out of a lot of the process, Crystal have a superb resource on their website, which is their slope starter program, we will put a link in the notes, and its a starter week designed for first-time skiers and snowboarders. With everything you need in one package, it’s the perfect way to start your winter adventure.

ROB

There are more expensive resorts where the entire trip is at the upper end, pricier accommodation, food in resorts and lift tickets will all be that little extra, but at the other end there are chocolate box gorgeous resorts with plenty of skiing for that are much kinder on the pocket, so this can be down to more personal preference, and we will delve further into this in episode 2.

DOM

here are a couple of great money saving tips for your first trip

1. Booking early means you get the best choice, and choice means you can balance and satisfy more of your needs, if you leave to the last minute you can win on last minute discounts  BUT you often have to compromise on at least one aspect of your holiday

1. If you can avoid school holidays then these will naturally be lower cost, if you are tied to school holidays driving can be a good money saver, or train can also be a great way to get to resort at a lower overall cost than flying all of which crystal can organise for you

ROB

Good point dom

Then we think about choosing the right resort now we cover this in a lot more detail in episode 2 but for starters here today, 

So talking to Crystal your gonna get an expert thats gonna guide you thru this rather than be expected  to call up and know where you want to go, but many people like to be forearmed and knowledgeable before they make that call, so, resorts like La Plagne in France or Zell am See in Austria are fantastic for kids. 

DOM

La Plagne, France, is a top ski resort known for its excellent ski school, beginner-friendly zones, and gentle runs, making it perfect for families and kids learning to ski. Crystal Childcare, located in Aime-la-Plagne, offers activities for little ones aged 6 months to 8 years while parents enjoy the slopes. Beyond skiing, you can try ice skating, visit an igloo village, or explore the ice grotto on the glacier. The resort consists of several purpose-built villages with easy mountain access and offers many self-catering apartments, ideal for families seeking mealtime flexibility.

ROB

Whilst Zell am See, Austria, is a lively lakeside town offering a vibrant mix of skiing and off-slope activities. The ski area is great for beginners, with one of Austria’s largest ski schools to help you build confidence on the slopes. Once you have found your feet, the fun runs at Schmidolin’s Dragon Park are a must, and families will love meeting the dragon mascot. Beyond skiing, there’s an alpine rollercoaster, tobogganing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. The charming town offers a range of accommodations, including family-friendly half-board hotels.

Dom

Yeah thats it rob i mean these places are ideal, you can drop the little ones off at daycare and ski knowing they are probably having a better time than you making snow angels and living their best life.

ROB:
And for those in the 5 to 12 age range, there are tons of ski schools and dedicated children’s areas. Ski schools for kids—is just 24x7 fun for kids on the snow. Some resorts even offer après-ski activities like sledging and snow parks to keep them occupied once the ski day’s over.

ROB:
Yeah, its fair to say ski holidays are very geared for the whole family and doubly so for kids.

Ruka, Finland, for example,  is a picturesque winter wonderland known for its charming log cabins and stunning scenery, just 25 minutes from the airport. The resort boasts the largest beginner area in Finland, with family-friendly slopes and the fun Rosa & Rudolf Family Park, complete with magic carpets and obstacles. When you need a break, cozy up in one of the huts by an open fire. Beyond skiing, Ruka offers thrilling winter activities like reindeer safaris, and snowmobiling. And If you visit during Christmas, don’t miss a trip to Santa’s Secret Cottage.

DOM:
Then for the parent adult skiers, Maybe you’ve got some beginners who arent as athletic who are wondering how they will manage to bend down to get their boots on (although common misconception that you have to super fit to ski - spoiler alert you dont!) then youve got the people that are just great at everything (dont you just hate them)

ROB:
So you’re gonna want to pick a resort with lots of green slopes—you know, the easy ones where you can learn in a quieter zone of other beginners.  But also plenty of other runs that are blues and reds as the speedier ones progress

Dom

Alpe d’Huez offers a fantastic mix of skiing and après-ski experiences in one of France’s oldest resorts. With over 250km of ski runs, and stunning high-altitude, south-facing slopes, it’s perfect for skiers of all levels. The resort is known for its sunny days and variety of activities, like ice caves and an alpine coaster with virtual reality features. Accommodation options range from self-catered apartments to hotels with Crystal Childcare for family-friendly stays. The lively après scene includes the famous La Folie Douce and the quirky Freeride Café.

Rob?

Or Soldeu, Andorra, is a peaceful and family-friendly resort within the 210km Grandvalira area. The gondola takes you directly to the ski school and nursery slopes, with options to progress to tree-lined green and blue runs, or visit nearby El Tarter for fun obstacles. The village offers high-quality hotels with swimming pools and kids' clubs, and its compact size means everything is close, including the gondola.

DOM

Brilliant rob so we will delve into choosing the right resort in episode 2 lets now move onto Travel Options

So essentially you’ve got fly drive train and all  bring pros and cons dont they rob

We’ve done a quick summary of these here as crystal can look after you whichever way you decide to travel:

ROB

Without doubt the most popular is Flying:

Pros:

• Convenience: Quick travel with direct flights and crystal fly fro multiple regional airports making its super convenient
• Luggage: once your bags are checked in you barely need to lug them around again until you get to the hotel 

Cons:

• Hidden costs - airport parking, expensive airport food etc

DOM

Train Pros:

• Comfort: Spacious seating, no security checks, and the ability to move around.
• Scenic: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes during the journey.

Cons:

• Transfers: Need for additional transport (bus/taxi) from station to resort.  Again if you are travellig with Crystal this can all be taken care of
• Slower Travel: Longer journey times compared to flying.

ROB

And finally Driving to a Ski Resort:

Pros:

• Flexibility: Travel at your own pace, stop when you need, and explore nearby areas.
• Convenience: Direct access to the resort with no need for transfers.
• Luggage: Easier to carry all your luggage without weight or size restrictions.
• Cost-effective: Can be cheaper for families or groups, especially when sharing fuel and tolls.

Dom

Cons:

• Long Travel Time: Depending on the distance, driving can be time-consuming.
• Weather Conditions: Risk of snow or ice making roads challenging, requiring snow chains or special tires.
• Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel can be tiring, especially after a day of skiing on your return journey.
• Parking: Finding parking at or near the resort can be difficult or expensive.

ROB

OK So we've got to the resort what next, 

you need to be thinking about what else your group enjoy, do they want to be doing anything other than skiing 

Are there non-skiers or people who just want to experience the mountains and all they have to offer. I mean there are simply loads of things to do apart from skiing:

Here are some ideas for when you want to take a break from the slopes and obviously dont forget, when you get to resort you always have access  to the Crystal, ski explorer App and you in resort rep meaning if you need help organising an activity or advice on what else you can do, the both are on hand ready to make that next adventure happen:

DOM

Snowshoeing – A peaceful way to explore the snowy forests and enjoy the scenery without the intensity of skiing.

Sledging/Tobogganing – Fun for all ages! Grab a sledge and zoom down the mountain on dedicated runs.

Ice Skating – Many resorts have outdoor or indoor rinks—perfect for a fun break from the slopes.

ROB

Spa & Wellness – Unwind with a massage, sauna, or hot tub after a day on the mountain.

Snowmobiling – For an adrenaline rush, explore the mountains at speed on a snowmobile.

Après-Ski – Enjoy drinks, music, and local specialties in cozy mountain bars after skiing.

DOM

Winter Hiking – Explore marked hiking trails with breathtaking views of the snowy landscape, visiting ice caves or going up in the gondola as a foot passenger to take in the fabulous views.

Culinary Experiences – Indulge in gourmet dining, from fondue on the mountain to local delicacies in resort restaurants.

There's a lot more to enjoy than just skiing—whether you want to relax or try something new, ski resorts have something for everyone!

ROB

Wow thats quite a list isnt it dom

rob

Yeah i mean these places are truly winter wonderlands and they get the fact that people need more than just snow to slide on…so now are are really getting stuck in lets think about essential packing

PACKING

Dom

So packing for a ski trip doesnt have to feel like you’re trying to fit your entire closet into a carry-on. 

ROB:
Yeo indeed , you’re staring at your suitcase and wondering, “Do I really need 17 pairs of socks?” Spoiler alert: you don’t. But we’re here to help you avoid overpacking—and underpacking—so you can hit the slopes without making rookie errors.

DOM:
 Exactly! So, let’s start with the basics Clothing. 

First thing's first: you need a solid base layer. This si the warn layer dircelty next to your skin so think warm and comfy. You want something that wicks away sweat and keeps you warm. Merino wool or synthetic fabrics are your best bet. Think about how warm you normally are as this is a great gauge for how warm you need to dress.

Dont rely on a cotton t short as this layer may get wet with sweat, and that really isnt good for you when you get cold.

ROB:
Once that’s sorted, you may want a nice mid-layer—think something like a fleece or down jacket, depending on how cold it is and how cold you are as a person. 

I personally go for down if I'm in the deep snow, but fleece does the job if it’s a bit milder.

DOM:
Right, you don’t want to be too hot or too cold on the slopes. So, for your outer layer, aka your ski jacket and salopettes make sure they're waterproof and breathable. 

You could get warm on the slopes at first when you are learning, but want to stay dry and warm. So breathable is important 

ROB:
 And let’s not forget ski socks—they need to be thick and knee-high. I know it sounds a bit extra, but trust me, your toes will thank you. And—huge tip here—avoid cotton socks again! Go for merino wool or synthetic for that perfect balance of warmth and comfort.

DOM:
Ok I think we’ve made our point on cotton... just don't do it! 

Now, onto something crucial: gloves or mittens. If you’re wondering, “What’s better: gloves or mittens?” it’s mittens. 

Mittens are warmer because your fingers are all cuddled up together like a little ski-loving family. 

Gloves, on the other hand, are good for mobility, but mittens are best in terms of warmth. 

And, of course, make sure they’re waterproof and insulated. We don’t want to be dealing with frozen fingers !

ROB:
100%. Now for the ultimate comfort, throw in a neck warmer —especially on those colder days keeping your neck warm can be very nice

DOM:
We would say Helmets are a must for beginners and everyone to be honest as they are compulsory in some countries, they will aid keeping your head warm anyway let alone the protection, these can be hired or purchased from as little at 30-40£ and dont forget if you book with crystal this could form part of their rental package which will include skis boots poles and a helmet.

ROB:
And we can’t forget about goggles—those are your eyes' best friend. Get a pair with anti-fog and UV protection to protect against glare.  And with an all weather lens it will mean you are covered weather its a dull day or bright sunshine.  

DOM:
 Good call. Alright, let’s talk boots and skis. If you’re new to skiing, definitely rent your gear at the resort, especially skis and boots. No need to shell out the cash for your own gear if you're just starting out.

ROB:
And don’t forget about the ski pass! Pre-purchase that thing if you can—it’ll save you time and often a bit of cash. BUt of course again crystal will organise that for you as part opf your holiday booking. 

Thats your golden ticket to the mountain. But don’t just throw it in your pocket with your change—make sure it’s easily accessible so you’re not fumbling around in the middle of the ski lift line.   Most ski jackets has a specific pocket on the sleeve for it to go through to get on the ski lifts

DOM:

The higher up you go, the stronger the sun, so protect yourself—even on cloudy days! And don’t forget SPF for your lips.

ROB:
A small backpack—can be handy something lightweight but big enough to hold your snacks, water, extra layers, and sunscreen. Stay hydrated and fueled up while you’re out there. A water bottle with an insulated sleeve is key because, you know, nobody wants frozen water.

DOM:
Then  travel insurance. Just Make sure you’re covered for skiing and make sure you have your GHIC card

DOM:
 Absolutely. Now, for the optional stuff: If your resort has a hot tub or pool, don’t forget your swimwear. Trust me, after a long day on the slopes, you’ll want to soak those tired muscles. And a portable charger is a lifesaver if you're out in the mountains and need to charge your phone on the go.

ROB:
So the key takeaway here is: Layer up. Skiing is all about comfort, and with layering, you can always adjust based on how you're feeling. Moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer—that’s the magic formula.

DOM:
 Spot on, Rob. With the right gear, you’ll be warm, dry, and ready to tackle whatever the mountain throws at you. So, go forth, pack wisely, and get ready for the best ski trip of your life!

ROB

So dom lets finally have a look at What else you can do before your holiday to guarantee success 

Dom

Yep rob, Skiing isn’t just about strapping on some skis and hoping for the best. You might want to put in a little prep before you go to make the absolute most of that first trip

So you may want to consider a few indoor ski lessons or dry slopes lessons which can be a game changer. They give you the chance to learn the basics before you even get to the resort.   this is also a great chance to meet Crystal before you go skiing as they have hubs around the country where you can meet somebody in person   these are located at Chillfactore, Manchester, Tamworth, SnowDome, and snozone in Milton Keynes  that's a really great option if you wanna sit down with somebody and talk to them directly before your booking.

ROB:
Exactly! It's like a low-risk, high-reward situation. You can get comfortable with the equipment, practice, and even get a feel for turning and stopping, all in a controlled environment. Plus, it’s way less intimidating than being in a ski resort

DOM:
indoor lessons can boost your confidence and make your time on real snow a lot smoother. You get that muscle memory going, and before you know it, you’ll be gliding down the slopes like you’ve been doing it your whole life.

ROB:
 And potentially think about fitness preparation,Skiing isn’t just about skills, a little extra strength, flexibility and balance def wont do any harm, its important to say skiers come in all shapes and sizes and levels of fitness so whatever your fitness level def dont let that put you off.

So thats it for this week, the 1st in our 4 part series ski 101 in association with crystal ski holidays 

Thanks for tuning in. We hope today’s episode helped you feel more confident on your journey to the slopes.

Next time, we’ll be diving into Choosing the Right Resort and Accommodation. We’ll guide you through picking a ski resort that fits your group’s needs, whether you're looking for family-friendly options, vibrant après-ski scenes, or pocket-friendly spots. We’ll also break down different accommodation choices—hotels, self-catering, and chalets—so you can pick the best fit for your trip. And don’t worry, we’ve got tips from seasoned skiers on their favorite resorts for beginners.

Until then, keep practicing those turns, and we’ll see you next time on The Whiteout Ski Podcast!