How should you prepare for a ski holiday?

September 30, 2025

Will our ski jackets be warm enough? Where do we pick up the keys to the chalet? Did we book ski school for the children?

You’re nearly ready, the suitcases are (almost) zipped up, the skis are on the car, and you are just about to set off. But as you close the boot of the car, an avalanche of questions hit you: Have you remembered everything? Is everything ready? Because a winter holiday, unlike an impromptu off-piste sortie, requires some preparation! With fitness, ski equipment and bookings to think about, it’s worth getting organised early. That way, you can make the most of your skiing holiday and enjoy a magical week.

So, before you hit the road in a few weeks, we’ll help you tick all the boxes:

✅ Be suitably fit
✅ Be well equipped
✅ Book everything in time

So here’s our ‘How to prepare for your winter holiday in the mountains’ guide for a fun-filled and stress-free holiday.

Organising your skiing holiday: the essentials

Choosing and booking accommodation

The first stage in organising your winter holiday is booking accommodation. Chalets, apartments, tourist residences, hotels – there’s something for everyone in Méribel. Your choice of accommodation is crucial. It’s the key to an unforgettable ski holiday.

Choose your accommodation

Ski passes: make the right choice

Before putting on your skis and heading for the summits, there’s one thing you must do: buy your ski pass. And yes, it’s better to prepare now for your first exhilarating runs, and so avoid any queues and make the most of every minute on the slopes.

⛷️ Buy your ski pass

Book ski lessons in advance

For children and adults – whether you’re looking to improve, gain confidence or simply discover the joys of skiing – enrolling in ski school is a must. However, places are in high demand and fill up quickly. So don’t delay – book for yourself or your children now!

❄️ Book your ski lessons

Reserve your ski equipment

Last but not least, before you make your first turns, think about your equipment. Sharp-edged skis, well-fitting boots and a helmet… To avoid disappointment in the resort, it’s a good idea to reserve beforehand. You’ll enjoy comfort, safety and performance without any last-minute stress.

🎿 Rent your equipment

Packing for skiing: clothes and accessories to keep you warm and dry

What to wear for skiing

Choosing what to wear is an essential stage in preparation (because shivering on the slopes is never pleasant!)

The most reliable way of protecting yourself from the cold and damp is the three-layer approach, also known as the onion technique:

Layer 1: a base layer, often a thermal t-shirt. Thin and snug-fitting, this provides a first layer of warmth while wicking away perspiration to keep you dry.
Layer 2: a fleece. This conserves heat by creating a layer of warm air between your body and jacket.
Layer 3: a ski jacket (or one-piece ski suit). Waterproof and windproof, this protects you from the external elements of cold, snow or rain.

This layering technique also applies to the lower body. In very cold weather, it’s worth wearing leggings or tights under your trousers or ski suit. Ideally, opt for thermal clothing; failing that, choose breathable fabrics that wick away moisture. Your aim is to not end up damp after a session in the powder!

List of things to take

Now that you know how to keep warm, there’s another essential step: choosing what to pack.

Jacket or ski suit: there’s something in every style and for every body type and budget. It’s up to you to choose what suits you best.
Ski trousers or ski suit: Here again, there’s something for everyone: snug-fitting, baggy, technical or more relaxed.
Fleeces: Bring more than one so you can alternate them over the week.
Thermals: One or two are enough, but they’re essential for warmth.
Ski socks: Thicker than normal socks, they will keep your feet warm in your boots.
Ski gloves or mittens: A must for protecting your hands from the cold. Choose whatever suits you best.
Liner gloves: If you tend to have cold hands, a pair of thin liner gloves can really make a difference.
Wooley hat or headband: Indispensable for when you are off the slopes. Keeping your head warm helps keep your whole body warm.
Neck warmer or scarf: Handy for protecting you from the wind and snow, especially on colder days.
Swimming costume: Allows you to enjoy a spa, sauna or swim after skiing. This is a real treat after a long day on the slopes.
Sportswear: Perfect if you want to try other activities, such as indoor climbing, yoga or power walking.
And of course, everyday essentials: underwear, nightwear, comfortable evening wear of your choice.

Essential accessories for a holiday in the mountains

Helmet: Essential. Even if it’s not compulsory, we strongly recommend that you wear one, whether you’re an adult or child, beginner or expert!
Goggles: These give you a better field of vision and greater protection against the wind, cold and UV rays. Unlike sunglasses, these prevent UV from entering around the frames.
Warm, non-slip boots: For walking around the resort without slipping, while keeping your feet warm.
Ski or snowboard boots: If you have your own boots, don’t forget to bring them!
Sun protection: Sun cream for your face, lip balm with SPF, and ideally an after-sun moisturiser. At altitude, UV rays are more powerful and the snow reflects light: sunburn happens fast.
A rucksack: Handy for carrying snacks, water, spare goggles or an extra layer.
A water bottle: Staying hydrated is also important on the slopes.
Your papers: Passport, health insurance, European/global health card — always worth having, even at altitude!

Little extras to pack in your suitcase

Camera or GoPro: For those who like to capture every run.
First aid kit: A small kit with bandages, disinfectant and soothing cream might come in handy.
Knee and wrist protectors: Particularly useful for snowboarders or if you’re just starting out.
And anything else you think might be useful for a great holiday in Méribel!

Getting physically ready for skiing: exercises and practical advice

Why should you get ski-fit?

Imagine your first day on the slopes. You’re doing one run after another, only stopping for delicious food. The sun is shining, the snow is sparkling, there’s a huge grin on your face. However, when evening comes, your muscles are aching and stiff. To keep your legs in tip-top shape, prevent injuries and, above all, enjoy Méribel to the full, here are some recommendations. Because our legendary slopes are not just there to be admired, they should be tackled with passion and mastery.

Strong muscles for every turn

Make tired legs a thing of the past! Strengthen your thigh and calf muscles so you can master parallel turns and any tricky stretches of piste. Incorporate squats, lunges and plyometrics into your routine for more explosive power. For perfect carved turns or controlled side-slipping, balance is key. And what better way to develop it than through yoga? Poses like the candle or the warrior improve not only balance but also flexibility, which is essential for avoiding injury if you fall.

Cardio and endurance for flowing descents

Altitude can play tricks on you if you’re not properly prepared. Cardio work is the first step in getting ready to hit the 3 Vallées slopes. Why not try HIIT training? Or incorporate some sprint intervals, which prepare you for the intense effort of a schuss, followed by recovery periods, more like quietly gliding through the powder. And on rest days, why not take a bike ride? These will remind you of swooping descents, in the run-up to your long-awaited holiday!

Stay hydrated and eat well before you go up the mountain 🥞

Before hitting the red and black runs, make sure your body has the fuel it needs. A diet rich in proteins and complex carbohydrates will give you the energy to ski from morning to night.

And after skiing, remember to rehydrate and give your muscles the essential nutrients to recover… while you enjoy après-ski!

Warm up before hitting the slopes 🔥

It’s finally the big day. The one you’ve been looking forward to for months. Méribel’s lifts are about to open. But before you hit the slopes, take the time to warm up. A few dynamic stretches, some circular movements of the joints and you’re ready to hit the slopes. And remember: technique comes before speed. Revise the basic techniques, concentrate on your position and balance, and let the mountain do the rest.

And that’s it – you now have all you need to prepare for the best possible holiday in Méribel. Now it’s time to collect the keys to your accommodation, put down your bags and experience the magic of winter in the mountains.✨

Prepare your holiday