Ski Vacations: The Ultimate Checklist for a Perfect Trip

Dec. 14, 2023

Is it time? Is your ski vacation about to begin? Take a moment to double-check our ultimate list of 20 things to do (or pack) for a perfect trip! 19 essentials (and one gadget) that you’ll be glad you checked off once you arrive at your apartment in La Plagne, La Rosière , or Tignes…

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1. Check the weather forecast before heading out on a ski vacation

Some people dream of sunshine. Others dream of fresh powder every day. You might get both during your ski vacation. Checking the weather a few days before you leave will help you better plan your trip ( if you’re driving) and your activities ( maybe there’s still time to book a last-minute freeride lesson?).

2. Combat motion sickness on your way to your ski vacation

Taking a ski vacation by car usually involves a few hairpin turns as you approach the resort, which travelers may find more or less pleasant.

Do your children get motion sickness? Tell them to look straight ahead, avoid reading or looking at screens, and stay calm (no sudden head movements).

You should also ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice and, based on their recommendations, keep a supply of conventional or homeopathic medication on hand, or consider using herbal remedies.

3. One last look at your reservations (activities, restaurants, etc.)

On vacation, you can forget about everything! Take a look at all the reservations you’ve made for your ski trip, and add them to your Google Calendar. You can even set one or more reminders (for example, the day before, then 1 hour before your reservation starts) to free up some mental space.

You won't want to miss your dog-sled ride, dinner at that highly sought-after restaurant, or that massage you've been dreaming about for weeks…

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4. Make sure everyone's ski pants fit properly

A growing child, a few indulgences over the holidays, a happy event on the horizon… and suddenly, your pants won’t button! A quick check two weeks before you leave will help you avoid any disappointments ( and the discomfort of skiing in pants that are too small).

5. Set up your GPS (Be careful in high-mountain areas!)

For a stress-free arrival at the ski resort, enter the GPS coordinates of your vacation rental into your device the day before you leave. Convenient: our Altitude Résidences vacation rentals all Altitude Résidences private covered parking—no need to move your car once you arrive!

Take this opportunity to make sure your GPS isn’t routing you through a high-mountain pass, such as the Col de l’Iseran or the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard, which are closed in winter ( much to the delight of skiers).

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6. Leave at the right time with traffic updates

Traffic is often heavy on Saturdays near ski resorts (especially during school breaks). Be sure to check national and local traffic advisories (for example, on bison-fute.gouv.fr; or directly through the communication channels of the resort you’re visiting: La Plagne, La Rosière, Tignes…).

7. Put the snow chains in the trunk

It may not be snowing on the day you arrive, but it could be snowing on the day you leave. Don't risk skidding or sliding on the way up or down: put the snow chains in the trunk, on top of your suitcases, so they're easily accessible.

Take the time to watch a short tutorial and practice putting them on in the warmth of your garage. That way , you'll be ready when the time comes to put them on in the snow at a snow chain installation area.

8. Check the check-in and check-out times for your apartment

At Altitude Résidences, we’ll be ready to welcome you starting at 5 p.m. (giving us time to spruce up your apartment after the previous guests have checked out). Planning to arrive earlier? Give us a quick call to check if your parking spot is already available: if it is, you can park and take a leisurely stroll around the resort while you wait for your beds to be made.

On the day of departure, check-out is at 9 a.m. Want to delay your departure? We understand! That’s why we provide a luggage storage area and a changing room with showers and restrooms, so you can enjoy the slopes one last time and hit the road a little later, when traffic is lighter.

9. Pack an outfit for after skiing

Of course, you'll be spending most of your vacation in ski gear. But be sure to pack at least one casual outfit just in case you want to go out for dinner.

Don't worry: no one will expect you to show up in a tie and high heels to enjoy your fondue; but you'll still be more comfortable in jeans and a cozy sweater than in ski pants when it's time to sit down to eat.

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10. Don't forget your swimsuit.

It may seem counterintuitive for a mountain vacation, but it’s essential: pack your swimsuit! You’ll need it to enjoy the wellness area at our “ Chalet Hôtel Turquoise ” residence at Belle Plagne, and soon at the wellness area of the “Le Quartz” residence at Tignes. You’ll also want it for the public aquatic centers in these same two resorts (Espace Aqua-Ludique Paradisio in Plagne Bellecôte; Espace Aquatique Le Lagon at Tignes).

On vacation in La Rosière ? Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa area of the hotel or resort that offers your favorite line of skincare products.

11. Stay Warm During Your Ski Vacation

When getting dressed, use the “onion” technique: wear several thin layers rather than a single thick one. This way , you’ll trap warm air between each layer of clothing (and can add or remove layers as the temperature changes throughout the week).

Opt for technical fabrics and designs. A warm, breathable T-shirt and ski tights will be much more comfortable than a cotton T-shirt. A fleece neck warmer will be more practical than a scarf on the slopes. Mittens will keep your fingers warm in winter, much more so than gloves (which you should save for your spring ski trips).

When it comes to shoes, focus on the soles. They should be thick (to insulate you from the ground) and have a tread (to prevent slipping). Don’t hesitate to go up a size from your usual size—that way, you can add an ultra-cozy insole to keep your delicate feet warm.

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12. Enjoy the sun safely

Whether the forecast calls for sunshine, cloudy skies, or snow, be sure to pack a good tube of SPF 50 sunscreen and protective sunglasses (SPF 3 or even 4). You might be surprised by how bright the snow is (on the slopes and in the resort), even on days when the sun is playing hide-and-seek.

In the spring, when temperatures start to rise, be sure to bring a cap with you. You won't need it on the slopes (since you'll be wearing a helmet), but it's very handy after skiing or during your walks around the resort.

13. Add a bag... to our bag!

When you think of a “ski vacation,” you think of “a stash of cheese and sausage”! Pack a bag or two (empty!) so you can fill them with Savoyard specialties (to give as gifts or keep all to yourself). But also little and big treats: a marmot stuffed animal for your nephew, a pair of earmuffs for your cousin, a cute neck warmer for your brother… or a new ski outfit for yourself!

14. Baby-soft, well-moisturized skin.

In the mountains, the air is very dry—especially in winter. Be sure to pack some moisturizer (for your face and body) in your suitcase to prevent your skin from feeling tight and to combat that “crocodile skin” effect.

Contact lens wearers would also be wise to pack some saline solution in their toiletries bag (and a pair of glasses in case they start to feel some discomfort toward the end of the day).

15. Bring your water bottle and/or thermos with you to the ski slopes

Winter temperatures all too often make us forget that we need to stay hydrated throughout the day. Be sure to pack a water bottle (or a thermos of hot tea) to slip into your backpack on days when you plan to ski from when the lifts open until they close.

16. Take care of your ski equipment

Before your ski trip, make sure your skis or snowboard are perfectly sharpened and waxed. The most discerning skiers, who prioritize precision, will wax their skis at the last minute based on the conditions forecast for their vacation week: very cold, cold, standard, or wet snow… For “recreational” skiers, an all-purpose wax will do just fine.

Don't forget to have your gear serviced after your last day of skiing this season, so you can store your precious gear in the best possible condition until next winter.

17. Pack a power bank in your suitcase

In January and February, temperatures can sometimes drop quite low. And the batteries in our beloved smartphones don’t really like that! To avoid running out of battery just as you’re about to meet up with friends for lunch, make sure you have a portable charger (also called a “power bank”). It might just save the day.

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18. A smartwatch on the wrist

No, a smartwatch isn’t essential for skiing. But admit it—you like to check your stats every now and then. So you might as well bring it along if you have one! Number of runs, kilometers skied, elevation gain… Have fun comparing your stats to your partner’s or your best friend’s at the end of the week (or take on a Strava challenge!).

19. Never without your slippers, even on a ski vacation

It’s THAT little detail that will make you feel right at home in your vacation rental. You’d be missing out if you didn’t take advantage of it! Although (let’s reassure the “socks team”) the hardwood floors in our residences are just as pleasant to walk on without slippers ;)

20. Things You Shouldn't Pack in Your Suitcase for Your Ski Vacation

Now that we've gone over everything you need to pack, let's take a look at everything you can leave at home:

Your sheets (the beds will be made upon your arrival)
Towels (included with your apartment rental) and a bathrobe for the spa area (available for rent at the front desk, to lighten your luggage)
Baby gear (crib—just bring your little one’s favorite sheets, baby bathtub, high chair, baby dishes)

You can also save yourself the hassle of grocery shopping: simply place an order online with our partner, Off Courses, one week before your arrival, and your groceries will be waiting for you right in your apartment on the day you arrive.

Have you checked off every item on our ultimate checklist for a perfect ski trip? Fantastic! You’re all set for your vacation! Have a safe trip, and we’ll see you soon at our resorts in La Plagne, La Rosière and Tignes !

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