As a first-time or novice skier, we realise that booking your first ski holiday can be daunting. But at Skiworld we know exactly what it takes to get you off to a flying start (and not a giant tumble!) We can advise you on the right resort, accommodation and all the extras to suit you - so you can make the most of your holiday and be skiing like a pro before you know it!

Need some suggestions of where to go on your first ski trip? Our Ski Specialists are available to help you. If you'd like to discuss anything about ski holidays with us, you can get in touch with us easily...

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Beginner Ski Weeks 2025
All-inclusive 7-night packages for beginners. Hassle-free with catered chalet, lift pass, equipment rental, and ski lessons included. Everything you need for an epic skiing adventure. Maximise the mountains!
Beginner Skiing

Top Tips for Beginner Skiers

• Protect your skin from the cold, the wind and the sun
• Use sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes
• Stay warm by using layers of clothes - you can take them off if you get too hot
• Make sure that you have adequate travel insurance
• Try and borrow ski clothes rather than buying at first (It is highly unlikely that you will not enjoy the experience but just in case!)
• Eat a big breakfast
• Get fit and try a session on an indoor or dry ski slope before you go
• Take a rucksack so you can carry water, snacks, extra layers and your valuables
• Wear a helmet – Would you ride a bike without one?
• Research and get advice on where to go
• Enjoy yourself!

FAQs for Beginner Skiers

What do I need to wear for skiing?

If it’s your first time this can be confusing. Make sure you have a thermal under layer, a fleece on top and a waterproof outer layer. On top of this you’ll need cold weather gloves, ski socks, goggles, a helmet and probably a face covering like a Buff. Most of this can be picked up cheaply or even hired if you book far enough ahead.

What else do I need to bring for the slopes?

When you’re sitting out for lunch you might want to swap your goggles and helmet for sunglasses and a beanie. Don’t forgot lip balm and sun cream as the sun can be intense bouncing off the snow. Plus water and a little rucksack to chuck it all in. Make sure to grab a piste map in resort too. The rest is just adding your chill vibes to the mountain scene.

How do I stay safe on the mountain?

Aside from wearing a helmet and respecting the snow conditions, it’s good to brush up on skiing etiquette. The basics are –

• Give right of way to the trailblazers below you
• Leave plenty of space when overtaking, they can’t see you and can move anywhere
• Look up for oncoming skiers when merging and starting, those folk are already speeding through
• Always stop on the side of the piste and never below a lip, visibility is no. 1 in staying safe

Should l book ski or snowboard lessons?

Absolutely! If you’re a beginner the need is obvious. But we recommend them to everyone, the more you improve the more the mountain opens up to you. The true joys of skiing only reveal themselves after quite a bit of development. If you are travelling on a school holiday date, we would strongly advise you book early as there are only a limited number of instructors out there!

We can help you organise lessons ahead of time so everything is prepared and protected – just look at the options on Manage My Booking.

How difficult is it to ski on the slopes?

Your piste map and the signs in the mountain will all be colour coded. In Europe this normally goes –

• Green: Nursery slope for learning
• Blue: Easy to ski for most everyone
• Red: Intermediate and advanced skiers here
• Black: The most difficult runs for confident skiers

Please note some of this can be ‘best guess’ by the resort. A blue may have a short steep bit in, or be steep overall but very wide giving you lots of space and time to turn.

How fit do I need to be for skiing?

You can cruise around blues for days if you take it slow. But skiing is still a whole body work out (not just legs!) and having good overall fitness will certainly help you enjoy it more. We’ve put together some ski fitness advice here.