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How to Store Skis and Snowboards for Summer (Complete Guide 2026)
At the end of the ski season, it’s easy to throw your skis or snowboard in the garage and forget about them. But poor storage can lead to rusted edges, dried-out bases, and reduced performance next winter.
Follow these simple steps to store your skis and snowboard properly—and keep them in top condition for next season.
1. Clean Your Skis or Snowboard
Before storing your gear:
- Wipe down the base and topsheet
- Remove dirt, salt, and debris
- Dry thoroughly to prevent rust
This is essential for long-term ski and snowboard maintenance.
Top tip: Don’t leave wet skis or board zipped up in their bag overnight.
2. Repair Base and Edge Damage
Check for:
- Deep scratches or gouges
- Edge damage or rust spots
Fixing issues now prevents further damage while your gear is in storage.
3. Apply Storage Wax (Don’t Scrape It Off)
One of the most important steps in ski storage:
- Apply a thick layer of wax to the base
- Leave it un-scraped over summer
Storage wax protects the base from drying out and prevents edge corrosion.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
The best place to store skis or a snowboard is:
- Indoors
- Dry and well-ventilated
- Away from heat and humidity
Avoid garages, damp basements, or attics with temperature extremes.
Store Skis and Snowboards Correctly
Store vertically or flat. Avoid pressure or tight clamping. Keep them stable to prevent warping.
Make sure:
- They’re not resting heavily on tips or tails
- They’re not wedged under constant pressure
Light support is fine — stress isn’t.
Don’t Forget Ski Boots
Proper ski boot storage matters too:
- Store in a cool, dry space
- Dry liners completely
- Buckle boots loosely
Store Touring Skins Properly (If Applicable)
For touring gear:
- Use skin savers to protect glue
- Dry skins fully
- Store in a cool environment
Prepare for Next Season
When winter returns:
- Scrape off storage wax
- Check bindings and edges
- Consider a professional tune
Conclusion: Protect Your Gear, Save Money
Taking time to store your skis and snowboard properly will extend their lifespan, maintain performance, and save money on repairs.
A simple routine now means your gear is ready to go when the next ski season starts.
Planning ahead for next winter in the Alps?
Taking care of your gear now means one less thing to worry about when it’s time to hit the slopes again. Got questions about storing your skis or snowboard? Here are the most common ones answered.
Q. Should I wax my skis before storing them?
A: Yes—always apply a layer of storage wax before putting skis away for summer. Leave the wax un-scraped to protect the base from drying out and the edges from rusting.
Q. Can I store skis in the garage?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal. Garages often have temperature swings and moisture, which can damage edges and bases. A cool, dry indoor space is much better for long-term ski storage.
Q. Is it OK to store skis vertically?
A: Yes. Skis can be stored vertically or flat, as long as they’re stable and not under pressure. Avoid awkward angles or tight clamping that could cause stress over time.
Q. Do snowboards need storage wax too?
A: Absolutely. Snowboards benefit from storage wax in the same way as skis. Apply a thick coat and leave it on until the next season.
Q. How do I stop ski edges from rusting?
A: Dry your skis thoroughly after cleaning and apply storage wax over the edges. Keeping them in a dry environment is just as important as waxing.
Q. Can I leave my skis unwaxed over summer?
A. You can—but it’s a mistake. Unwaxed skis are more likely to dry out and oxidise, which affects performance and can shorten their lifespan.
Q. Do I need to get my skis serviced before storing them?
A: If there’s damage (deep scratches or edge issues), yes—repair it before storage. Otherwise, a full service can wait until the start of next season.
Q. How long can skis or snowboards be stored safely?
A: Indefinitely—if stored correctly. With proper cleaning, waxing, and dry conditions, your gear will be in excellent shape even after many months.
Looking ahead to next season? Browse chalets and apartments across the Alps and start planning your next ski holiday early. Your future self will thank you.
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How to Store Ski Boots Between Trips (and Keep Them Warm, Dry and Comfortable)
Ski boots – an investment Ski boots take more abuse than almost any other bit of ski kit — and poor storage between trips is one of the biggest reasons they end up smelly, damp or uncomfortable.
The good news? Looking after ski boots between trips is simple, as long as you avoid a few common mistakes.
Dry them properly — inside and out
This is the golden rule of boot care.
After skiing:
It’s important to dry boots out overnight. Most accommodations will have heated boot rooms. If you have access to boot dryers use them! They are specifically designed for the purpose and it’s better to use constant, gentle heat rather than high temperature blasts.
At the end of your trip:
- Remove the liners from the shells
- Let both shells and liners air-dry fully at room temperature
Moisture trapped inside liners leads to:
- Bad smells
- Cold feet
- Shortened liner life
Top tip: If you use boot dryers, use low heat only. High heat can damage liners and shells.
Never store boots near direct heat
It’s tempting to dry boots by:
- A radiator
- A fire
- Or a hot air heater
Don’t.
Excess heat can:
- Warp plastic shells
- Shrink liners
- Change how the boot fits
Warm, ventilated rooms are ideal. Hot, dry blasts are not.
Clip the buckles loosely for storage
Once boots are dry and ready to store:
- Reinsert the liners
- Buckle the boots very lightly
This helps the boots:
- Hold their shape
- Avoid shell deformation
Don’t crank the buckles tight — you’re just helping the boot remember its proper shape.
Store boots somewhere dry and well ventilated
Good places to store ski boots between trips:
- Indoors in a hallway or utility room
- In a ventilated boot bag
- On a boot rack in a dry space
Avoid:
- Damp garages
- Cold sheds
- Leaving boots sealed in a bag for days
Fresh air is your friend.
Use footbeds, but remove extras
- Leave your footbeds inside the liners
- Remove extras like:
- Hand warmers
- Extra insoles
- Damp socks (yes, it happens…)
Anything left inside can trap moisture and smells.
Don’t forget the soles
Before storing:
- Check soles for packed snow, grit or salt
- Wipe them clean and dry
This helps protect grip and keeps dirt out of your boot bag and car.
Between-trip storage vs end-of-season
Between trips, keep things simple:
- Dry thoroughly
- Lightly buckle
- Store indoors
Deep cleaning, liner washing and full inspections are better saved for end-of-season storage.
Quick checklist: storing ski boots between trips
✔ Remove liners and dry fully
✔ Keep away from direct heat
✔ Buckle lightly once dry
✔ Store indoors and ventilated
✔ Keep bags unzipped when possibleEnd-of-season ski boot storage:
This is all about keeping them dry, clean and in shape. Once the season ends, remove liners and footbeds, clean shells and soles, and let everything dry completely at room temperature. Reassemble the boots, buckle them loosely to help maintain their shape, and store them indoors in a cool, dry place — never a damp garage or loft. Avoid sealing boots in airtight bags, as trapped moisture can cause odours and damage liners over summer.
Final word
A little care between trips/seasons means:
- Warmer feet
- Better-fitting boots
- Less smell
- Longer-lasting liners and shells
And that makes every ski day more enjoyable.
Wondering if it’s time to take the plunge and buy your own boots? Check out our post here and get the answers to all your questions!
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When Is the Right Time to Buy Your Own Skis and Boots?
When to buy your own ski and boots How do you know when it’s the right time to buy your own skis and boots?
Hiring ski equipment is convenient, flexible and often the right choice — especially when you’re starting out. But for many skiers, there comes a point where owning your own kit offers real benefits in comfort, confidence and progression. Here’s some top tips for taking the plunge into ski/boot ownership.
Should You Buy Ski Boots or Skis First?
Hiring is often the right choice — until it isn’t. If you’re going to buy just one piece of equipment, it should almost always be ski boots.
Rental boots are designed to fit as many feet as possible, not your feet specifically. Poorly fitting boots can lead to cold feet, pressure points, and reduced control — all of which affect how well you ski and how much you enjoy it. Comfort problems are the clearest signal it’s time to buy.
Boots make the biggest difference to comfort and control — far more than skis.
When Buying Your Own Ski Boots Makes Sense
Buying your own ski boots is usually worthwhile earlier than buying skis.
It’s a good time to invest in boots if:
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You ski at least once a season
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You regularly experience discomfort in rental boots
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You’re taking lessons or actively trying to improve
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You want consistency every time you ski
A properly fitted boot improves stance, balance and responsiveness, and reduces fatigue — especially over a full ski week.
👉 Tips:
- Always buy boots from a specialist boot fitter — not online — and allow time for adjustments.
- A good boot fitter will also recommend you get a customised insole (conformables/footbeds) fitted to you at the same time as getting new boots. In our opinion, this is not a nice-to-have optional extra, it’s an essential investment and makes an enormous difference to your feel, comfort and performance in the boot.
- Be prepared to spend time choosing and fitting the right boots. 2 hours plus is not unusual.
- Don’t be afraid to return to the shop if there is any discomfort. Quite often micro-adjustments to the boot or the footbed can make all the difference. Check on their policy for after-sales service.
How Often Do You Need to Ski to Make It Worthwhile?
Frequency matters, but it’s not just about cost.
If you ski every winter, or more than once a season, owning your own equipment becomes increasingly appealing. You avoid time spent in rental shops, get consistent performance, and know exactly how your kit will behave in different conditions.
That said, even one annual ski trip can justify owning boots if comfort is an issue.
What Level of Skier Should Buy Their Own Equipment?
Beginner rental skis are designed to be forgiving and easy to control — which is ideal when learning. Buying skis too early is a common mistake that skiers make.
As you progress, however, you may start to feel limited by standard rental equipment. If you’re:
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Linking turns confidently
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Comfortable on red runs
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Beginning to ski varied snow conditions
…then equipment matched to your ability, height and skiing style can help you progress more naturally.
Key takeaway:
Skis should support your skiing — not restrict it.When It’s Time to Buy Your Own Skis
When to buy skis Unlike boots, skis are best bought once you have a clearer idea of what you enjoy.
Before buying, it helps if you:
- Ski regularly
- Know whether you prefer piste, all-mountain or mixed terrain
- Have tried different skis through rental or demo days
Many resorts offer “try before you buy” schemes, allowing you to test skis in real conditions — an excellent way to avoid an expensive mistake.
When Renting Skis Is Still the Better Option
Buying isn’t always the right answer.
Continuing to rent may be better if:
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You ski infrequently
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You’re still at an early beginner stage
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You enjoy experimenting with different skis each trip
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You don’t want to travel with or store equipment
Modern rental fleets are high quality and well maintained, making them a perfectly good option for many skiers.
When to buy your own ski boots and skis Final Thoughts: Boots First, Skis When You’re Ready
There’s no single “right moment” to buy ski equipment — but there is a logical order.
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Buy boots as soon as comfort and consistency matter
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Buy skis once your skiing style and preferences are established
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Don’t rush — but don’t let rental gear hold you back
The right equipment won’t magically improve your technique, but it will make skiing more comfortable, more consistent, and ultimately more enjoyable.
Are you an expert boot-fitter? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
Have you had a great experience when buying skis or boots? Let us know where!
Leave us a comment below!
Haven’t booked your next ski trip yet? Why not try the Solutions Room and get all the answers to your questions for your next trip – such as where and how to hire, how far you need to walk in ski boots, are there regular shuttles/ski buses etc. It’s an amazing resource and has been helping skiers find what they’re looking for for over 20 years!
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When should you invest in your own ski gear?
Well-fitted ski boots and appropriate skis are crucial for improving your ski performance, but if you had to prioritize one over the other, a good fitting ski boot would generally be more important. Here's why:
Ski Boots: Properly fitting ski boots are the most important piece of equipment in skiing. They are the direct link between your body and the skis. A well-fitted boot ensures that you have control over your skis, can transfer your movements effectively, and maintain balance. If your boots don't fit correctly, you may struggle to control your skis and your skiing performance will suffer. Badly fitting boots can also lead to discomfort, pain, and even injuries.
Skis: While skis are essential, they come second in priority after boots. The choice of skis depends on your skiing style and goals. However, with good boots, you can adapt to various ski conditions and terrain using different skis. Skis can enhance your skiing experience and performance, but they don't have as direct an impact as boots.
In summary, if you're looking to improve your ski performance, start with properly fitted ski boots. Once you have a good boot, you can then consider upgrading or selecting skis that match your skiing style and preferences. A combination of well-fitted boots and suitable skis is ideal for achieving the best skiing performance. Consulting with a knowledgeable ski shop or boot fitter can help you find the right equipment for your needs.
A good ski boot fit is essential for an enjoyable and safe skiing experience. A properly fitted ski boot should feel snug and secure while providing comfort and control. Here are some characteristics of a good ski boot fit and the reasons behind them:
- Snug but not overly tight: The boot should feel snug around your foot without causing pressure points or discomfort. It should hold your heel firmly in place to minimize heel lift, which can affect control and lead to blisters or discomfort.
- Toes touching the front: When you first put on the boot, your toes should lightly touch the front of the boot liner. When you flex your knees forward, your toes should pull back slightly from the front, creating a small gap. This ensures that your toes won't be jammed against the boot when skiing downhill.
- Proper width and volume: The boot should match the width and volume of your foot. Ski boots come in various widths (last widths), and the fitter should assess if you have a narrow, medium, or wide foot to recommend an appropriate boot model. Volume is also essential to prevent unnecessary pressure points or empty spaces within the boot.
- No excessive pressure points: A good boot fitter will check for pressure points or discomfort and may use custom insoles or boot modifications to alleviate them.
- Secure calf and ankle fit: The boot should provide a snug fit around your calf and ankle to ensure proper control and power transfer while skiing.
A skilled ski boot fitter will ask you a series of questions to determine the best fit for your specific needs and skiing style. Some common questions might include:
- What is your skiing ability level? (Beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert)
- What type of skiing do you primarily do? (Alpine, backcountry, freestyle, racing)
- Do you have any specific foot issues or previous injuries that need to be considered?
- What is your foot width and shape? (Narrow, medium, wide, high arch, low arch)
- Do you prefer a more performance-oriented or comfort-oriented fit?
- What's your typical terrain and skiing conditions? (Groomed slopes, powder, moguls, park)
- What is your budget for ski boots?
- Have you ever had a ski boot fitting before, and if so, were there any issues with your previous boots?
The boot fitter will also measure your foot's length and width and may use a footbed scanner or other tools to assess your specific foot shape. They will then recommend a selection of boots that match your preferences and needs. Trying on multiple boots and assessing the fit while skiing in them is a crucial part of the fitting process to ensure you find the perfect match for your skiing adventures.
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Here’s a Top Tip for your first Family Ski Holiday
The children’s book all skiers have been waiting for!
Any parent with children who ski will tell you that the first week is crucial and not without stress and worry.
Will they take to skiing? How will they cope with the equipment, the cold, the environment? What if they hate ski school and refuse to go back? The first week or two is make or break – it could either mean a future of great family ski holidays or zero family ski holidays.
A trio of British ski instructors, all ex-GB team racers, have come together to tackle this problem and have published a great little book for children called "Jacob's First Ski Holiday".
The book which is aimed at 4 to 8 year olds is guaranteed to bring extra excitement in the build up to a child’s first ski holiday.
Written by the founders of Maison Sport, they have used their experience of ski teaching and love for the sport to create a book that will increase the chances of a successful and enjoyable ski holiday for young children.
The book features illustrations and descriptions of various key techniques the children will learn during their first lesson, in a subtle and exciting way. It also aims to show how much of an adventure the children will go on during their holiday, taking away some of the unknowns that can make the experience daunting for a child.
Nick Robinson, one of the team behind the book explains:
"Sometimes the first hour of a children’s skiing experience can be quite challenging, they often have no understanding of what skiing is and more importantly why they now have to walk around in giant shoes (ski boots), with ridiculously slippy planks of wood stuck to their feet (skis). They then spend the next hour trying to walk around with said planks of wood attached to giant shoes, sliding and slipping everywhere. This can be disheartening and that’s why the book tries to show them all the adventures they will discover once they can ski.
We have huge passion for the industry and have great memories skiing as a child, we feel this is a great way to pass this on."
With beautiful illustrations the book helps to paint a picture of what a child can expect on their first ski holiday and helps to get them excited and looking forward to the experience, whilst familiarising them with some of skiing basics. The idea is to give them the book before the holiday so they can start to learn what to expect.
To find out more and how to purchase the book take a look at https://jacobsadventures.com/ !
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Packing for your first ski holiday!
Ski Magic ski holidays, based in the Three Valleys, have come up with this handy guide to help beginners pack for their first trip to the mountains!
If you’re wondering what to pack for a ski trip as a beginner, here’s the Ski Magic packing checklist for your first skiing/snowboarding holiday:
For skiing
Outer layers need to be waterproof and breathable. If you’re coming skiing for the first time, it makes sense to try and borrow these things from a friend rather than splashing out on buying your own, or try looking for second hand in charity shops or online. Ski gear is made specifically for cold temperatures and snow, so it’s ideal to choose a ski jacket rather than a hiker’s raincoat.
- 1 ski jacket (you can get a ‘shell’ which is a thin waterproof layer, and wear this with a down ‘midlayer’ underneath, or you can opt for a ski jacket which has padded insulation)
- 1 pair of salopettes
- 1 pair of ski gloves/mitts
- 1 midlayer – skiers tend to choose a fleece or a light, technical fabric jacket or thin down jacket
- 1 neck warmer – better than a scarf
- 3-4 pairs of ski socks (handwash if you need to)
- 1 pair thermal pants/long johns
- 2-3 thermal tops
- 1 pair UV protection sports sunglasses
- 1 pair ski goggles (much better than sunglasses on a snowy day)
- 1 rucksack packed with high SPF suncream, lip balm and refillable water bottle – big enough to hold a spare layer or to carry anything you want to take off!
Around resort
It’s pretty casual around a ski resort; think practical rather than swish unless you’re planning to go to really swanky places! Whilst it’s chilly outside, it’s always very cosy inside chalets, bars and restaurants. So – as always – layers are key! You’ll also be spending quite a lot of time dressed in ski gear during the daytime, so you won’t need quite so many clothes as you’d think, unless you have a habit of getting covered in beer every night…
Thinking of taking your favourite winter coat? Most people walk around resort in their ski jacket which saves on luggage space, especially if you wear it to travel in!
- 1 pair boots – ideally waterproof and grippy enough to cope with ice or slush. You could wear trainers or heels, but you’ll probably slip over or get very cold feet!
- 2 pairs trousers (or thick tights/leggings)
- 3-4 tops
- 1-2 jumpers
- 1 hat & a pair of woolly gloves
In your accommodation
Inside, you’ll probably be toasty warm so don’t think you’re going to need loads of knitwear! Most likely you’ll be fine in a single layer in the chalet. In the mornings you’ll probably have breakfast in your thermal undies or PJs, then get dressed to go skiing. Once you come back from skiing you’ll change into normal clothes for going out or for dining in.
- Slippers – you won’t want to wear snowy, wet boots inside
- Swimming things – if your chalet has a hot tub, sauna or swimming pool
- Pyjamas
- Underwear – take extras as you’ll be showering and changing after skiing
- TLC kit – some painkillers (for achey limbs and/or hangovers), plasters in case your ski boots rub, moisturiser for dry skin on cold days
- Entertainment: games, books, music etc. although our chalets have board games, a music system and WiFi.
Things you can rent or buy in resort
- Skis, boots, poles – you’ll rent these as a beginner
- A helmet, which we strongly recommend hiring
- Ski gloves, goggles, ski socks, thermals, neck-warmers, hats, ski jackets and salopettes are all available to buy in resort shops
Don’t forget!
- Passport plus driving licence if you’re hiring a car
- Wallet – best to tell your bank you’re going abroad before you leave
- Insurance – please ensure it covers winter sports
- Phone/camera plus chargers, cables and adapters
- Straighteners – hairdryers are available in the chalet, but you might want these to sort out your hat hair!
- Glasses wearer? Take spares if you have them. For skiing it’s a good idea to wear contact lenses and goggles, or prescription sunglasses. Some goggles are big enough to take a pair of glasses underneath but you’ll suffer with steamy lenses!
What to book in advance
- Ski lessons – it’s best to book this before you arrive in resort so that everything is organised for your first day
- Ski passes – order these through us for the same price or cheaper than you can buy at the lift pass office
- Ski hire – you can reserve this in advance
- Got any dietary requirements? Advise us before you travel so that your chalet host can make sure they have everything they need. More about Food & Drink…
And finally…. What NOT to pack for a ski trip!
Over-packers, watch out for these things which you really won’t need out on the slopes:
- A big fluffy, woolly scarf – too bulky for skiing and it’ll get covered in snow and won’t ever be the same!
- A hoodie – the hood will really get on your nerves and cotton isn’t a great material for warmth or ‘wicking’ = taking the sweat away from your skin, so it’s not a great choice as a midlayer.
- Don’t wear everyday socks inside your ski boots for the same reason – you’ll sweat then end up with cold, damp feet which will make you miserable!
- Too many pairs of shoes – you’ll really only need one pair of boots for walking around resort; those waterproof, grippy ones we mentioned above.
- Wax for your skis? Only serious pros would consider taking wax on holiday… You don’t need to worry about that yet!
- Makeup and jewellery – learning to ski is not a time for heavy makeup, what with getting hot, getting cold, eyes running etc, and you don’t want to be worried about losing jewellery when taking gloves and helmet on and off. Bring minimal for the evenings.
- A big SLR camera – unless you’re a pro photographer, stick to your phone or a small camera as you’ll find a big one stays in your bag all day as it’s too tricky to get in and out in the cold!
Got any more questions on what to pack for a ski holiday? Do feel free to contact us – don’t be embarassed, we’ve heard it all before!
Ski Magic have beautiful chalets in La Tania and Courchevel! Check them out!
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Taking a Baby Skiing!
Ski Magic's top tips on taking your smallest member of the family away to the mountains. Follow their advice and it will be child's play 🙂 !The Ski Magic Guide to taking your baby skiing
First things first: This is going to be easier than you think!
In fact, babies can make charming travel companions, and taking a baby skiing is no exception. It may sound like a mad enterprise but there are ways and means to make your first ski holiday with a baby smooth and (mostly) hassle-free if you do your research and make sure you’re organised.
When to go?
If you’re worried about cold January weather, then perhaps its best travel in March or April when the weather will be warmer: great for walks with your little one and making the most of the fresh mountain air! Christmas is also a magical time to be in the mountains, with all the twinkly lights around the resort: ideal if you’re looking at a 3G family holiday with grandparents.
Where to go?
Skiing in Europe is the obvious choice if you’re coming from the UK. Not only is the skiing amazing, but importantly, the travel times aren’t too daunting with a small person in tow. Also it doesn’t experience such harsh winters as eg. Canada.
Which resort?
Of course we would say this, but La Tania should be at the top of your list of potential resorts. Here’s why:
1) It’s a pretty and pedestrianised village – not too large, not too small
2) It’s part of a huge ski area (the Three Valleys)
3) There’s lovely, gentle sledging at the base of the slopes
4) It’s easy to get around on foot and using the free buses
5) Using the lifts it’s easy for whoever is on baby duty to meet up with the rest of the group for lunchHow to get there?
If you’re nervous of taking a baby on a plane then consider the train: being able to walk around is a great advantage! Driving from the UK gives you the freedom of being able to take a break whenever you need to, perhaps even planning an overnight stop or two during the journey to make a road trip of it.
Taking a baby on a plane
Travelling on a plane with tiny people is not as horrendous as it sounds. In our experience, airline staff are generally very kind to people with little children. Younger babies will love the opportunity to be sitting on your lap for an hour or so, and if you can time your flight for nap time then a quick feed and the hum of the engines make perfect conditions for a doze!
For older babies (the wrigglier ones), it’s worth popping some distractions into your changing bag, but think carefully about what to take – anything with small parts that will drop onto the floor are a real nuisance! A brilliant idea is to take a piece of cord and thread or tie smaller toys onto it – ones with lights (not sounds!), buttons, switches etc. – something that is easy to keep on your lap and be interesting for more than 2 seconds, eg. a bottle with a screwcap, something with a zip, even your own cardigan with buttons… Think creatively! And for when all else fails, always have a stash snacks…
Airlines generally allow car seats and buggies to be checked in through excess baggage (on top of your baggage allowance) which is really useful, but if you think that you’re going to find it difficult to manage a long walk carrying your baby on your hip then you can usually take a buggy or backpack carrier to the gate with you. This is also a great way of keeping all your bits and bobs together!
Ski Magic transfers can provide age-appropriate car seats for the transfer, just let us know in advance. Click here for transfer times.
Top tip no. 1: Don’t wear warm clothes and be prepared to get hot and sweaty (especially if you end up buying a bottle of gin in the duty free that you’ll have to carry as well as your baby!)
Top tip no. 2: Some airlines will allow you to board the plane in front of everyone else. Don’t! Minimise the time you have to be strapped down and wait for everyone else to get on first. That way the plane will be ready to leave not long after you’ve sat down.
Top tip no. 3: Laugh. It’s probably not going to be the most enjoyable of journeys, but when you look back, it’s only a very short period of the holiday – grit your teeth and giggle on through!
Where to stay?
A catered chalet is by far your easiest option if you’re travelling with a baby. Not only is your food prepared and cooked for you, but your little one can have their own tea-time earlier and go to bed before you relax and unwind with the grown-ups and enjoy the experience of having someone cook and wash up for you!
Read more about how Ski Magic chalet holidays work and what we offer for families.
When will I get to go skiing?
If you’re travelling with family then it’s easy to swap so that you all get to spend some time on the mountain, doing what you love!
If you’d like to, Ski Magic offer full or half day childcare so that you can enjoy a few precious hours on the slopes without worrying about your little one.
We also provide lunch if required, so that you can rest assured they’ll be well fed sensible meals to keep those all-important energy levels up!
Our nannies are qualified childcare practitioners and we adhere to strict UK child:carer ratios. The childcare team visit the chalets on arrival day to meet the children and discuss your requirements.
The movable service accommodates children within the chalet environment; our nannies will bring play equipment to whichever chalet has most children. We’ll organise a programme of indoor and outdoor play, taking the ages of the children into consideration. Activities could include: snowman building, sledging, piste picnics, treasure hunts, baking, face painting, model making, bubble ride and trip to the soft play centre on the local bus. We also have loads of arts and crafts equipment!
What to pack?
Remember those days when you chucked a toothbrush and some clean pants in a suitcase and off you went? This is a WHOLE different board game… (And it’s the reason that some guests prefer to drive: no baggage allowance!) But it’s not unachievable, and doubtless you’re already used to carrying kilos of ‘stuff’ whenever you leave the house.
Here’s the link for a general ‘what to pack’ list for anyone going on a ski holiday.
Here’s what else you’ll need for travelling with a baby:
- Milk – if your baby is bottle fed then you can purchase formula from the local supermarket but bear in mind that it may not be the same brand as you usually buy.
- Bottles –steriliser in the chalets??
- Nappies and wipes – again, these can be purchased at the local supermarket but possibly not the same brands or as cheap as you would usually buy. You could use cotton wool and water though.
- A warm suit – we’d heartily recommend the Columbia Snuggly Bunny Bunting suit which has a long zip which makes it easier to get your baby in and out, and fold over hands and feet which are SO MUCH easier than struggling with gloves and bootees!
- Something to carry your baby: a backpack carrier gives you freedom to go up on the lifts and take walks around the village. If you don’t have one, hire one. Some of the local shops have them available or you can hire from this brilliant local service: www.holidaybabyhire.com and they’ll be delivered to your chalet.
- Things to protect your baby from the sun: suncream, hats, sunglasses – bring it all! The combination of sunshine and reflective snow can be vicious for grown up skin, let alone for babies!
- Favourite books/toys/comforters. But you only need the absolute favourites, we can happily provide a few toys to keep your little one entertained in the chalet.
- Your baby’s usual paracetamol, just in case (and probably some for you too!)
Important to remember:
Keep your baby hydrated – the mountain air is dry so can mean that your baby is more susceptible to snuffles.
If your bedroom is too hot then put a vessel of water on your radiator or in corner which will help humidify the room.
It’s great for babies to be outside in the fresh air, just ensure that you cover your baby when out and about: sunshine and/or cold air can damage their skin.
Ski Magic have a great selection of chalets in Courchevel and La Tania, including two luxury chalets with swimming pools and spas. Check out their great range of chalets!
Thanks for the excellent advice! -
Top Tips for Driving to the Alps
Tempted to avoid the airport crush and take your car to the Alps instead? Those alpine experts, Powder White, have some great advice and top tips for you.
Driving to the alps is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery, reduce your carbon footprint, avoid the busy half term airports, ludicrous prices of flight tickets and get a few boxes of the good stuff… wine. The Alps are easily accessible via an excellent network of motorways and it's by far the most flexible way to travel.
Benefits of Driving
1. No luggage restrictions.
Ski holidays always involves a lot of bulky equipment such as ski boots, coats, salopettes etc which mean you have to decide whether to take less or pay the extra weight costs.By driving, you can fill the car to the brim and purchase goods to bring home. That could be French wine, Swiss chocolate, new equipment or smelly cheese that the kids always complain about.
2. Save time, that’s right!
In your head, you will always initially think flying only takes the time are up in the air flying. However, it is easy to forget the time it takes to get to an airport, check in, wait due to delays, wait for your luggage and get to the resort at the other end.
If there are two designated drivers you will be able to drive through the night at can get to resort within 12-14 hours (depending on where you come from and where you are going too).
You can check the duration, distance and estimated costs of a medium size petrol car from www.mappy.com . If you have a medium size diesel car you will save an extra 30 euros on fuel.
For example:
Calais to Verbier: duration 8h39, distance 875km, fuel & tolls approx €200
Calais to Val d'Isere: duration 9h26, distance 1002km, fuel & tolls approx €210
Calais to Meribel: duration 8h50, distance 961km, fuel & tolls approx €210
Calais to St Anton: duration 9h52, distance 1035km, fuel & tolls approx €160
3. Save money
Over half term flights can cost a family around £250 per adult (15+) and that is before you have paid for the parking at the airport and costs to get to the airport.
Yes, you can get some get some great deals on flights and save money but key dates such as Half Term or Easter won’t be the time to save money.
Powder White understands how annoying it is for family booking a holiday over Half Term. Prices go up, resorts are busier and you are set to those dates. However, we are offering special Half Term deals to try and get you out in the Alps and enjoying a well-deserved family holiday.
4. Travel at your own pace
When driving you can leave the night before or at 3 am, whatever suits you, it is completely flexible. If you are not in any rush, you can break up the journey and stop off at charming local villages or convenient cities and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Some great stopping off places include Reims, Dijon, Strasbourg (for St Anton).
There are also great inexpensive hotel chains which have locations close to the motorways for easy access. If parking overnight it's a good idea to look for somewhere with secure parking and remove valuables from your car.
Other benefits to driving…
- With your car you can avoid the expensive resort supermarkets by taking your own staples from home and/or shopping in the cheaper supermarkets on the way or at the bottom of the valley.
- Take your own skis and boards without paying airline surcharges.
- And finally, one key point that everyone kept saying was… you can stock up on excellent quality, good value, wine, champagne and French food on the way home.
HOWEVER…
If you are thinking about driving to the Alps there are these key factors you MUST remember…
- Parking – Make sure you have a parking space. If you book with Powder White, we have specific parking spaces in each of our resort.
- French Driving Law – When driving through France you must have:
- Driving licence – yes, we have heard of people forgetting the driving licence after leaving it in their wallet back home.
- Proof of vehicle ownership & Insurance – Print it out as it will speed up your process if you get pulled over.
- Headlamp beam deflector – Remember you are driving on the right side of the road.
- Breathalyzer kit – This is by law! Don’t forget it.
- Hazard warning triangle – This is by law! Don’t forget it.
- Spare set of car keys – because we have that scare when we lose a set of keys.
- High-visibility waistcoats-This is by law! Don’t forget it.
- It is also worth getting snow chains and winter tyres as you never know what the conditions are going to be like.
Check out Powder White extensive list of properties in the top ski resorts of Courchevel, Meribel, St Anton & Val d'Isere!
Still looking for Half Term, Christmas, New Year?
Avoid the airport crush! -
Plus 2 Clothing – exciting Aussie brand designed for the slopes!
Looking for a fresh hoodie for the slopes this season?
Introducing Plus 2 Clothing an Australian clothing label that specialise in longer length tops such as tall hoodies and tees.
First launching in 2014, Plus 2 has gained popularity with skiers and snowboarders in both Australia and New Zealand and now are shipping worldwide.The tall hoodie is certainly nothing new to the snow fashion scene. Skiers and snowboarders have worn longer length outwear for years since it helps to keep the powder out of your pants and can give you a steezier look whilst ripping it up in the parks.
Plus 2 has recently released their 2017 range of hoods and beanies in time for the upcoming snow season. Coming in a variety of colours and styles, their hoodies are 100% cotton and 320gsm making them an ideal thickness to keep you warm on the slopes.
With the skier on a budget in mind, they’re also priced very reasonably. Check out what a couple of skiers had to say about taking their Plus 2 hoodies to the snow recently:
If you’re interested in checking out Plus 2’s range head on over to www.plus2clothing.com and for a limited time they are offering Chalet Direct readers a $10 off voucher with discount code “CHALET”.
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Top Tips for the February Half Term Ski Holidays
Half term weeks are fast approaching and if you're setting off soon we thought you might like our top tips to help you get the best from your trip!
Weather:
Keep an eye on the weather forecasts for your resort before you go so that you have an idea of what the temperatures will be like during your stay and whether there is snow on the way. Generally forecasts up to 3 days in advance will be the most reliable and beyond that you can at least get an indication of how things will pan out.
Good weather sites include Snow-Forecast.com, Meteoblue, Netweather – and you can also check the resort website for weather updates.
Layer up:
If you know you're expecting snow and cold weather then you can prepare for it by packing some extra layers.
Temperatures can vary enormously in the mountains during the day and at different altitudes so be aware of that. Whilst it may be a pleasant 5 degrees at 1500m for example it can easily be a lot colder at 3000m with wind chill.
Make sure you're prepared – and layer up. Base layers are a must and will often make the all the difference. If the weather is going to be very cold, or if you suffer from cold hands, a thin pair of inner gloves is also a good idea for both adults and children.
Tips for Families:
If you have children in ski school then it's a good idea to have a morning checklist written up somewhere visible in your accommodation so that nothing is forgotten – both for yourself and the kids. It's too easy to leave behind those all important items such as gloves, goggles/glasses etc.
There are other small items it's worth slipping into their pockets too; small change should the instructor take them inside for a hot chocolate mid-lesson, mini snack bars to keep them going, tissues.
If ski school starts on Sunday then get as much done on the Saturday evening as you can. Many ski shops will stay open late on the Saturday to give new arrivals time to get organised and you'll feel happier on Sunday morning knowing that at least the gear is sorted and you just need to get to the ski school rendezvous.
Non Ski-Schoolers:
If you are not tied to the ski school timetable then make the most of it to get some quieter time on the piste. Most ski schools will start around 9-9.30am, when the pistes suddenly get a lot busier. Aim to get out as soon as the lifts open so that you can get at least a couple of runs under your belt before the classes get underway.
Similarly morning sessions will usually finish around midday – when most families will reconvene to get lunch. Lunchtime can therefore be a great time to ski. Either have your lunch early or late so you can avoid both the restaurant crowds and the lift queues!
Check out what else is going on:
Even the most diehard skiers and snowboarders will come to a point when they need to take some time out during the week.
Check out what's happening in your resort over the week so you can plan for it and make it part of your holiday. There's usually a lot of resort happenings taking place over the February weeks – torchlight descents, shows for children, competitions, live music etc.
There's also the opportunity to try out activities which may not be so accessible at home – ice skating, snow shoeing, ice driving, tobogganing, even snowman-building.
The good news is that the Alps, Pyrenees and North America have all recently had good, substantial dumps of snow – so conditions for February are looking great! If you're looking for a half-term break then you've left it a bit late but there may still be some availability – check out the half term promotions or try the Solutions Room.
