How to Enjoy Your First Ski Trip

So you've decided to give snow skiing a try. These choices will help you decrease the risk of injury before you hit the slopes and hopefully not a tree. Sure it's going to be cold and probably wet, but the experience will be more pleasurable with the proper planning and purchases.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski equipment
• Waterproof ski clothing
• UV eye protection

1. Choose a resort with a designated ski area for beginners, plenty of easy runs and slow-moving transportation to the top of the hill that will be easy to get off. Look for plenty of smooth, wide open slopes designated as green runs.

2. Pick mid-week to ski when the slopes are less crowded and lift tickets are cheaper.

3. Invest in UV sunglasses or goggles to provide better visibility and shield your eyes from sunlight reflecting off the snow. Goggles are the better choice during heavy snowfall.

4. Purchase the necessary clothing to stay warm and dry including waterproof pants, ski jacket, ski socks, long underwear, gloves or mittens, hat or headband and neck gaiter to protect your face.

5. Rent skis, poles and boots at your destination. It's more convenient than traveling with bulky skis and if something doesn't feel right, you have the option of making a change.

6. Sign up for a lesson even if you are going with an experienced skier. Learning from the experts will be faster and less frustrating.

Tips & Warnings

• Dress in layers that can easily be removed if you get too hot.
• Shop outside the ski resort for cheaper equipment rental prices.
• Watch others to learn the correct way to carry your skis and poles.
• Take advantage of a package deal that includes lift ticket, equipment rental and a lesson.
• Carry a resort map and refer to it often to avoid getting lost on the mountain.
• Sit in the hot tub at the end of the day to soothe sore muscles, especially if you plan to ski the next day.
• Schedule a day of rest after a few consecutive days of skiing.
• Don't take transportation up the hill that doesn't have numerous easy runs to choose from to ski back down.