Practical Advice

Tips and advice for ski trips prepared by SkiTops

To remember when traveling to high altitude area

• The crisp mountain air will be dryer and colder. Drink 2 to 3 times more then usual (preferably water or juices); eat lots of carbohydrates and less salt.

• Keeping a window slightly open will increase the oxygen in your room and help you sleep. It’ll also give you a better fire in your fireplace!

• One alcoholic drink does the work of two! Keep it in moderation.

• Take a day off. When you don’t ski often, your third day can be the most strenuous.

• Most of the ski areas have numerous activities to enjoy in the snow: try snowmobiling, snowshoeing, fishing, hot air ballooning or ice skating.

• Study your area’s trail map to determine where you should be skiing according to your ability. Green marks the easiest trails, Blue marks the more difficult trails, and Black marks the most difficult trails. A Double Black diamond means the area is for “experts only.”

• Every ski area has its own standards for marking runs. When skiing at a new area it’s best to start out on an easier run to determine the levels of grading the slopes.

Air Transportation

• No paper airline tickets? Electronic tickets may be used for air transportation to your ski gateway city. Using an E-ticket is simple. Just show a government issued picture ID (17 years & over) and obtain your boarding pass.

• No boarding passes? The majority of airlines no longer issue advance boarding passes. You must check in at the ticket counter or gate.

• Travel to the mountains may be affected by weather; therefore you may encounter delays and cancellations. The airlines are not responsible to reimburse you for weather caused expenses.

• Every effort is made to accommodate your seating request; however, this is not always possible. Someone has to sit in middle seats on fully booked flights!

• Frequent flyer members — give your membership number to your agent before you fly. It is difficult to get credit after you have traveled.

Transfers

You have chosen to leave the driving to a professional:

• If you are traveling with a large group, you probably will be on a comfortable motor coach. Make sure baggage identification tags are used and verify that your luggage has been put on the bus!

• If you are traveling individually, check in with your transfer company prior to claiming your luggage. Ground operators are normally located adjacent to baggage claim areas of the airports. You will be directed to your chartered vehicle.

• Reconfirm your return transfer. Verify pick up time from your lodging property.

• Gratuities are always appreciated.

Lodging

• You have spent time with your SkiTops agent to choose accommodations appropriate to your needs.

• “Acts of God,” such as no snow or too much snow, are not the responsibility of your resort. Cancellations may not be allowed and added expenses may incur.

• On arrival at your property, you may have time to spare before your unit is ready for occupancy. Generally the check in time is late in the afternoon to allow cleaning time after the prior guests’ departure. If your room is not ready, relax, the property will take care of your luggage and you can go get your ski rentals, have a meal, or check out the town while they get ready for you.

Clothing

Conditions on the mountain can change rapidly.

Proper attire is imperative for skiing:

• Layer your garments so that you can remove something if you become overheated.

• One pair of good ski socks is better than several pairs of regular socks (your toes need to move).

• Waterproof ski mittens will keep your hands warmer than gloves while you’re skiing.

• You are closer to the sun and the reflection off the snow is powerful — sunglasses or goggles with UV protection are essential. Apply sunscreen to any exposed areas of your face.

• You may hate flat hair when you take your hat off, but a lot of body heat is lost through your head, so keep it covered. If you don’t have a lot of hair, you can burn the top of your head without a hat!

Ski Rental Equipment

Whether you rent skis or own them, the ski rental shop is your friend:

• Equipment rental is quicker and easier if you make arrangements with a rental shop in advance.

• Don’t fib about your age or weight on your rental form — improper adjustments can cause injury!

• Treat your rental equipment like it is your own. You are relying on it for your fun and safety. Separate or lock your skis or boards when taking a break to discourage theft.

• Don’t hesitate to go back to your rental shop if you decide you’re ready for different equipment. They will work with you to provide the best ski for your ability and needs.

• Ski shops in resort areas are constantly updating their equipment and keeping it in tune. Demos can be rented on a daily basis to try out the latest styles. Their technicians will keep your equipment well tuned too.

Rental Cars

If you have chosen to travel from your mountain gateway city to your destination by rental car:

• Taxes, gasoline and insurance are typically not included in your rental fee. Also be aware that Passenger Facility Charges from the airport may be passed on to you, especially in a new airport such as Denver.

• Optional amenities such as ski racks or infant car seats are normally available.

• Please drive safely! Ask about the road conditions and make sure you have appropriate directions before you leave the rental agency.

Insurance

Travel is a perishable product that cannot necessarily be resold:

• Trip Cancellation Insurance is highly recommended to protect your vacation investment.

• You can cover trip cancellation, interruption and delays as well as baggage loss and accidents.

• Ask your travel professional for an application.

SKITOPS was founded to address critical issues concerning the ski industry and encourage professionalism and excellence within the industry. Look for the “SKITOPS” logo when planning your ski vacation.