10 Mistakes People Make on Their First Ski Trip, and How to Avoid Them

A first ski trip is exciting, but a few small mistakes can turn that excitement into sore feet, cold hands and lost time on the slopes. We have gathered the ten most common beginner mistakes and an easy fix for each.

1. Wearing cotton

Cotton holds sweat and makes you cold once it is wet. Wear a thermal base layer next to your skin, a fleece or light mid layer on top, and a waterproof jacket and trousers on the outside. With layers you can take something off when you warm up and add it back when you cool down.

2. Wearing thick socks or two pairs

One pair of thin ski socks is all you need in a ski boot. Thick or doubled socks restrict circulation, make your feet cold and wrinkle up inside the boot, causing pressure points.

3. Trying to ski without lessons

Learning from a friend looks cheaper, but it usually means more falls and bad habits. Spending your first few hours with an instructor speeds up your progress and makes the rest of your holiday safer.

4. Tackling difficult runs too soon

After a few good runs on a blue, trying a red is tempting. When you lose control, you put yourself and everyone else on the slope at risk. Do not move up a level until you feel comfortable on all the runs at your current level.

5. Leaning back

Leaning back in fear as you speed up is the most natural reaction, but it makes your skis run away. Keep your hands in front, your weight on the balls of your feet and your knees bent.

6. Not warming up, and not stopping when tired

The first run on cold muscles and the last run on exhausted legs are the riskiest. Start the day with a short warm-up, and when you feel tired, take a break instead of saying "just one more run".

7. Underestimating the sun

Light reflected off the snow and the altitude make the sun much stronger. Even on cloudy days, put sunscreen on your face and lips and protect your eyes with goggles.

8. Forgetting to drink and eat

You may not feel thirsty in the cold, but your body loses more water at altitude. Drink regularly during the day and do not skip lunch; a hungry, thirsty skier tires quickly.

9. Using the lifts the wrong way

Not lowering the safety bar on a chairlift, trying to sit on a drag lift or standing around in the unloading area are frequent mistakes. Do not hesitate to ask the lift staff for quick instructions before you get on.

10. Leaving everything to the last minute

Trying to rent equipment on the first morning, queuing for a lift pass or travelling with insurance that does not cover winter sports can cost you the first day of your holiday. Plan these things a few days ahead.

For a better first experience

To choose the right gear, see our guide to choosing ski equipment; for what to bring, our ski holiday packing list; and for the rules of the slopes, our ski safety guide. At Erciyes, our First Steps lesson packages are designed for first-timers.

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