Tips for the 2021-2022 Ski Season in Europe

Guest Post on Tips for the 2021-2022 Ski Season in Europe

Summer is drawing to a close and the ski season is almost here; which means millions of people are already planning their 2021-2022 ski season. No matter if this is your first skiing trip or you're a veteran skier; there are still some tips you need to be aware of before you pack your bags. Skiing in Europe is not an exception.

This skiing season in Europe will be different because of COVID-19 restrictions. But these restrictions don't mean that you won't be able to go on your holiday. It just means some things will be done differently and you'll still have a skiing holiday to remember.

Tips for a Safe Ski Holiday

The ongoing pandemic doesn't have to spoil your plans for a fun winter holiday. There are things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe while skiing. Sharing the tips for the 2021-2022 Ski season in Europe.

Go to a low-risk destination

When you're choosing a destination, you need to research where the COVID-19 case numbers are lower. Also where most of the population is already vaccinated.

Stay away from crowds

Waiting in long lines in front of rental shops or enjoying the local après ski is a part of the skiing experience. But now it should be avoided. The area you go to will have its own rules and protocols regarding social distancing. You need to respect them.

Get ready to hang out outside

Since indoor gatherings aren't possible this year, a lot of resorts are thinking of creative ways to provide outdoor dining and lounging options. Some will offer to-go drinks and food. Others will have outdoor seating. There are many more creative ways resorts will accommodate outdoor gatherings.

Be smart about your accommodation

Hotels are a breeding ground for viruses and infections. So it's best to stay away from them this year; as well as any other accommodation options that gather a lot of people in one building. Instead, rent out a condominium or a chalet where you will be able to prepare your own meals.

Reserve your lift tickets

Before the pandemic, the ticketing process for lifts included people standing in crowded lines just to get their tickets. But this year the process is much different. Most ski resorts all over the world are managing the crowd sizes by requiring online ticket reservations. So if you want a spot on that lift, be ready to make a reservation.

Resorts to Visit this 2021-2022 Ski Season

With so many fascinating ski resorts in Europe, it can be hard to find the perfect one. But there are some that stand out as ideal destinations.

Tignes, France

If you're looking for a resort that starts its skiing season early, look no further than Tignes, France. It opens at the start of December. Usually has excellent snow conditions. And you can find great budget accommodation options.

Verbier, Switzerland

This is one of the most famous skiing resorts in the world and for a good reason. Not only is it a favorite among celebrities and has amazing snow every year; but it's also famous for its off-piste skiing. Verbier is the best freeride resort in the world and has great skiing opportunities for experts and beginners.

It's located in the Alpine Four Valleys area; the largest and most popular linked ski area in the world.

Crans-Montana, Switzerland

If you want a destination where you will get a lot of sunshine even while skiing in January; this resort is perfect for you. Their south-facing slopes get a lot of sunshine all day long. And this destination is very popular with youthful crowds as it has a big freestyle scene.

Les Gets, France

Les Gets is located in France's Portes du Soleil ski region. It sometimes gets overlooked because of its perceived lack of altitude. However, while it is generally at a lower altitude than other resorts on our list; that doesn't mean that the skiing opportunities aren't worthwhile.

Les Gets has a lot of snow every winter. The slightly lower altitudes aren't a big deal when you consider the resort's proximity to the northwestern edge of the Alps.

Courchevel, France

This resort has a natural high elevation and an expansive snowmaking system. So, if you are worried for a second that you won't be able to ski; you can put your mind at ease. Through Courchevel, you will have access to the Three Valleys area and ski to your heart's content.

Zermatt, Switzerland

You've probably already heard of Zermatt in Switzerland. It's famous for having one of the most iconic locations out of all skiing resorts in the world. It's just at the base of the world-famous Matterhorn peak, but that certainly isn't Zermatt's only quality.

Its impressive location guarantees snow every ear. There are over 200 miles of skiable terrain. One thing you need to keep in mind if you want to visit Zermatt is that it's completely car-free. You can only reach it by train, taxi, or helicopter.

Chamonix, France

Chamonix is a favorite destination among expert skiers. It's famous for its amazing inbound skiing as well as its legendary off-piste skiing. However, this isn't an ideal place for small children and beginner skiers. The reason being while it does have some beginner and family-friendly runs; the resort is most famous for its expert terrains.

Travel Tips for Skiing in the Alps

There are multiple gateway cities that lead to the Alps. The one you will land in will depend on where you plan to ski. You will most likely land in Geneva, Zurich, Munich, or Milan. When you land, you will be able to take public transportation to your resort.

Public transportation in the Alps is convenient and efficient. And if you're visiting Switzerland, it's made even easier for those who purchase a Swiss pass. It gives you unlimited access to train and bus services. They come with a first-class upgrade that gives you more room for yourself and your luggage.

There is no need to rent a car. But if you do decide on this mode of transportation, make sure to bring or rent a GPS. This is especially important if you're coming to a resort you never visited before.

As for the money you will bring to your ski trip, don't exchange any money in advance. There is no need or benefit to it. Plus you will probably have to pay large exchange fees. Instead, when you reach the town in which you'll spend your holiday, use an ATM that will give you good exchange rates.

Even though most places accept widely used credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa, some remote mountain chalets only accept payments in cash. It's best to do research before your trip to see where you can pay with a credit card, as well as where you'll need cash and how much.

When you're pacing for your trip, don't go overboard and pack as light as possible, especially if you're bringing your own ski gear. But one thing you shouldn't forget to pack is adapters and converters if you're coming from a non-European country.

Final thoughts

Even though there is a pandemic going on, that doesn't mean you should miss out on a great ski season. Europe has a lot to offer in terms of skiing and other winter activities, so just pick the best resort for you, remember to be safe out there, and enjoy your holiday.