Booking a ski holiday can feel a little overwhelming, particularly if it’s your first one. Between picking a resort, organising travel, finding accommodation, and sorting ski equipment, it’s no wonder many first-timers don’t know where to begin. But don’t worry, with a little help (and the right people guiding you), booking your first trip to the mountains can be surprisingly simple and very exciting.
Table of Contents
At Ski Basics, we’ve been welcoming first-timers to the slopes for over 25 years. Here’s our complete newbie’s guide on how to book a ski holiday and make sure it’s a trip you’ll never forget (for all the right reasons).
First-Timer’s Guide To Booking A Ski Holiday: What You Really Need To Know
If you’ve never been skiing before, it may feel like there are a lot of moving parts to think about, but that’s exactly why some planning upfront can make all the difference. From picking the right time to travel to sorting accommodation, ski lessons and travel logistics, this guide breaks everything down into manageable steps to help you feel fully prepared.
Planning Your Ski Holiday Timeline
When and How to Book a Ski Holiday for the Best Deals
Booking early is often the best way to secure the accommodation, dates, and options you want, particularly if you’re tied to school holidays or travelling as part of a group. Many people start booking around 9-12 months ahead, especially for peak dates like Christmas, New Year or February half term. However, accommodation bookings for the upcoming season will often open around February of the current season, meaning you can book up to 15 months in advance if booking for the following April.
If you’re planning to book a ski holiday and visit outside of peak periods, such as later in spring, you can often book just a few months in advance. This allows for more flexibility and sometimes even access to special offers. Early and late season weeks aren’t just great for finding deals; despite what some people may think, they also often deliver a last-minute dump of fresh snow, making for an unforgettable week on the quiet slopes!
One thing we always say is: if you know you’re going, it never hurts to get organised and book as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. Some of the most popular chalets can already be up to 50% booked for the following season by the time the current one comes to an end.
Peak vs. Off-Peak Season Considerations
For beginners, travelling during quieter weeks can make the whole experience more enjoyable. Off-peak periods such as early December, mid-January or mid-March (a firm favourite of ours), typically mean fewer people on the slopes, shorter lift queues, and more availability for lessons and equipment hire. In most resorts, snow conditions are usually reliable at these times, and prices tend to be more favourable than peak-season weeks.
School Holiday Planning Tips
If you’re limited to travelling during school holidays, it’s even more important to plan ahead. These weeks book up quickly, especially for family-friendly chalets and popular resorts like Meribel. Booking early not only secures your preferred accommodation but also ensures ski lessons and childcare options are available too.
Choosing the Perfect Ski Resort
Why Meribel is the Ideal Destination
Meribel is a brilliant choice for first-time skiers. It combines a charming Alpine village atmosphere with excellent beginner-friendly slopes and facilities. The resort is home to wide nursery slopes, highly-rated English-speaking ski schools, and a welcoming environment perfect for families, couples, or groups learning together.
Another bonus of skiing in Meribel is that if you’re travelling as a mixed ability group, there is more than enough variety to keep everyone entertained for the week (and beyond!).
Understanding the Three Valleys Ski Area
Sat at the heart of the Three Valleys, the largest connected ski area in the world, Meribel offers access to over 600km of pistes. For beginners, this means you can start on the gentle local slopes and, as your confidence grows, explore further afield, like nearby Courchevel, knowing there’s something for every level. The expansive ski area makes it the perfect resort to return to year after year as your confidence grows and you can explore further afield without the feeling of having “been there, done that”.
Resort Facilities and Amenities
Beyond the slopes, Meribel offers excellent restaurants, bars, spas, and non-skiing activities. If you’re wondering how to book a ski holiday, don’t worry. You’ll find everything you need in-resort, whether it’s ski hire shops, lift pass offices, beautiful boutiques, traditional boulangeries or après-ski venues for unwinding after a day on the mountain.
Selecting Your Accommodation in Meribel
Catered Chalets: The Full Experience
For first-timers, catered chalets can make your trip seamless. With meals prepared, housekeeping taken care of, and experienced staff to help with bookings and local advice, you can focus on enjoying your holiday without the hassle of organising every detail.
At Ski Basics, our catered Meribel chalets offer personal service that covers all the essentials, from hearty breakfasts to freshly baked afternoon tea and home-cooked evening meals, along with thoughtful touches and attention to the finer details, leaving you free to focus on the skiing (or simply soaking up the mountain atmosphere).
Self-Catered Options: Flexibility and Freedom
Self-catering offers flexibility if you prefer to explore local restaurants or cook your own meals. This can suit families with specific dietary needs or groups who like to set their own schedule.
At Ski Basics, our self-catered Meribel chalets still offer the same high standards and great locations as our catered properties, just without the catering service. Behind the scenes, our team continues to take care of all the finer details, with optional extras available to pre-order so everything’s ready and waiting when you arrive.
Location Considerations: Village Centre vs. Ski-in/Ski-out
Where you stay in Meribel can really shape your holiday experience, and both ski-in/ski-out and village centre locations offer their own unique advantages.
Ski-in/ski-out chalets provide the ultimate convenience, allowing you to step straight onto the slopes in the morning and glide back to your chalet at the end of the day without needing to carry equipment or navigate transport. This can be particularly helpful for families or first-timers who want to maximise their time on the snow with minimal fuss.
Meanwhile, chalets in the heart of the Meribel Centre give you easy access to Meribel’s bustling shops, restaurants, bars and après-ski – perfect if you’re looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere after a day on the mountain. Being close to ski schools, rental shops and the vibrant resort centre can be especially useful on your first trip.
Meribel Village is another great option for those looking for somewhere a little quieter but also with direct access to local amenities and the slopes.
And if you’re not staying ski-in/ski-out, don’t worry, at Ski Basics, our in-resort drivers are on hand to get you to the slopes or ski school in time for lessons and first lifts, so you can start your day stress-free and on schedule.
Budget Planning for Your Ski Trip
Accommodation Costs Breakdown
Accommodation will likely be your largest expense. Catered chalets typically include meals and some services, while self-catered properties may come at a lower initial price but require you to budget for dining separately.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Don’t forget to factor in:
- Flights or travel
- Transfers to resort
- Lift passes
- Equipment hire
- Ski lessons
- Insurance
- Spending money for food, drinks, and activities
Money-Saving Tips for Ski Holidays
- Book early to take advantage of early-bird or last minute offers.
- Travel outside peak weeks where possible.
- Explore deals that include lessons and lift passes or providers who can provide access to exclusive offers in resorts.
- Consider hiring ski equipment rather than buying until you’re sure you’ll return.
For top tips on making your beginner ski holiday (or any ski holiday for that matter!) more affordable, visit our affordable family ski holiday guide.
Essential Ski Holiday Components
Lift Passes: Options and How to Book
Lift passes are your ticket to the mountain. For beginners, a local area pass may be sufficient while you’re learning.
When staying with us at Ski Basics, your chalet manager can organise your ski pass for you ahead of arrival, saving you time and hassle once you’re in resort.
Equipment Rental Made Easy
Hiring your ski or snowboarding equipment is straightforward, and your chalet manager can help arrange rentals either in advance or once you arrive at the resort. Many guests choose to have their equipment delivered directly to the chalet ahead of arrival, while others prefer to pre-book and then visit the shop to be fitted in person once you arrive in resort.
As a beginner, you’ll typically need skis or a snowboard, boots, poles, and a helmet, with many rental shops offering beginner-specific packages to help get you started. While it’s possible to leave your equipment hire until you arrive, we do recommend booking in advance where possible, especially during peak periods to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
Ski Lessons and Instruction Options
Booking ski lessons is highly recommended for your first trip. Meribel offers a range of group and private lessons with experienced, multi-lingual instructors who help build confidence from day one. Group lessons are great for meeting others, while private lessons provide one-to-one guidance.
Transportation and Logistics
Getting to Meribel: Airport Options
Meribel is well-served by several airports, including Geneva, Lyon, Grenoble, and Chambéry. Each offers varying transfer times and flight availability depending on your departure location.
Transfer Services and Travel Times
Transfers to Meribel can be arranged in advance, whether by private taxi, shared minibus, or coach. Your chalet manager can help organise transfers that match your flight schedule, ensuring a smooth journey from airport to chalet.
They are available in a variety of options depending on your budget, group size, and travel preferences. Here’s a rough guide:
- Private transfers: Offer the most flexibility and convenience, particularly for families or groups. Prices typically range from €300 to €500 each way per vehicle depending on group size and airport. Transfer times are usually 1h 15m to 2h 30m, depending on which airport you fly into.
- Shared transfers: A more cost-effective option, especially for solo travellers or smaller groups. Prices usually start from around €60 to €90 per person one way, with similar transfer times.
- Public transport options (train, bus or coach): Can take longer and often involve additional connections but may suit some travellers. Prices vary depending on route but are generally cheaper than private or shared transfers.
Parking and Local Transportation
If you plan to drive to Meribel, ensure your car is properly equipped for mountain conditions, including snow tyres and chains. Once in Meribel, local buses and free shuttle services make getting around easy without the need for a car.
No matter how you plan to travel, check out our complete guide on travelling to Meribel for everything you need to know, from comparing the different travel options and transfer times from nearby airports, to tips on driving to resort, parking advice, and insider recommendations to help make your journey as smooth as possible.
Preparing for Your Ski Holiday
Packing Essentials for the Mountains
Packing for your first ski holiday and knowing what to wear on the slopes can feel a little daunting, but with a few key essentials you’ll be well prepared for the mountains.
- Waterproof ski jacket and trousers
- Thermal base layers
- Mid-layers (fleeces or jumpers)
- Ski gloves, hat, and neck warmer
- Ski socks
- Goggles and sunglasses
- Helmet (can be hired)
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Comfortable footwear for the resort
For a full checklist and plenty of helpful tips, take a look at our complete guide on what to take skiing.
Travel Insurance and Health Considerations
It’s important to make sure your insurance policy covers winter sports and includes medical cover for ski-related injuries. It’s also a good idea to carry your European Health Insurance Card (or GHIC for UK residents) if applicable.
When purchasing your Méribel or Three Valleys lift pass, you’ll also have the option to add Carre Neige insurance for just a few euros per day, which can provide additional on-the-spot cover for rescue and medical assistance on the slopes.
How Much Should I Budget for a Ski Trip?
Budgeting varies depending on when and where you travel, but as a rough guide:
- Accommodation: £500–£1,500 per person (for 7 nights)
- Flights & transfers: £150–£400
- Lift pass: £200–£300
- Equipment hire: £100–£150
- Lessons: £235–£550. This covers group or private lessons across several sessions. Prices vary by lesson type, provider, and time of season.
- Holiday Insurance: £30–£50 + around €3-5 per day for optional (recommended) Carre Neige Insurance added to your ski pass.
- Spending money: £300-£1,000 per person. This will vary depending on things like the eating out, the places you go and whether staying in catered and self-catered accommodation.
Booking Process with Ski Basics
Step-by-Step Ski Holiday Booking Guide for Beginners
- Explore our chalets and their prices & availability or contact the Ski Basics team to discuss dates, group size, and preferences.
- Choose your chalet and confirm availability – you have the option to hold your chalet free of charge for 48hrs before booking.
- Pay a £150pp deposit to secure your booking.
- Our team is here to assist with arranging transfers, lift passes, ski hire, and lessons. Each member of your group can access all information, bookings, and options individually through their own MySkiBasics portal.
- Pay the remaining balance closer to your travel date (at least 10 weeks before arrival). Each person can conveniently log in individually to the MySkiBasics portal to manage their own payments – eliminating the need for one person to handle everything, unless you prefer to!
- Receive full pre-departure information to help you prepare.
- Arrive in Meribel, greeted by your host or chalet manager ready for a stress-free holiday.
Deposit and Payment Schedule
A deposit is usually required at the time of booking to secure your chalet, with the remaining balance due several weeks before departure. Full payment schedules will be clearly outlined at the time of booking.
Cancellation Policies and Flexibility
We understand plans can change. Ski Basics offers flexible cancellation policies where possible but travel insurance is always strongly recommended to provide peace of mind as a reschedule or refund cannot be guaranteed.
Enhancing Your Ski Holiday Experience
Pre-Booking Additional Services
Your Ski Basics chalet manager can help pre-book:
- Lift passes
- Ski hire
- Ski lessons
- Airport transfers
- Childcare
Having these arranged in advance ensures a smooth start to your holiday. As a Ski Basics guest, you’ll also benefit from exclusive discounts with the top recommended shops in town.
Dining and Après-Ski Options
Meribel offers plenty of après-ski options, from relaxed wine bars to infamous lively après spots with live music. Many Meribel restaurants serve regional specialities like fondue and raclette, perfect for refuelling after a day on the slopes.
Non-Skiing Activities in Meribel
Even non-skiers will find plenty of things to do Meribel, to name a few:
- Spa and wellness centres
- Ice skating rink
- Snowshoeing and walking trails
- Swimming pools and fitness centres
- Sledging and tobogganing
Ready to Book Your Perfect Ski Holiday?
Contact Information
Ready to get started? The Ski Basics team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to start planning your first ski holiday.
Our friendly UK team is here to help from Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.
UK Number: 01225 614668
Need help over the weekend? No problem — reach our French office at:
French Office Number: +33 479 003 994
Prefer to Email? Drop us a message anytime at info@skibasics.co.uk – we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
Alternatively, if you’d rather contact us by web form you can do so here.
Testimonials from Previous Guests
Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our recent guests have had to say about their time with Ski Basics.
Luess Espley – Chalet Arbalete – March 25
Another wonderful skiing holiday with Ski Basics in a great chalet with service to match! Thanks to our hosts Alice and Oli and Hattie, our manager, who provided lots of helpful information and met all our requirements with a friendly manner. Also thanks to Cheryl in the back office who patiently nursed through every enquiry leading up to our memorable stay.
Tori Griffiths – Chalet Victoire – Dec 25
Finn & Jacob were brilliant as were all the other Ski Basics staff we came across. Finn’s cooking was excellent & he made so much effort to provide Gluten Free food for me, which was all delicious. The chalet was very comfortable and clean and the cleaning staff who came in daily were really thorough & our kids loved the scenes put together using their teddies. We had a wonderful time and will definitely be using Ski Basics again.
Jo Moore – Chalet Lapin – March 25
The chalet was a great size and location for our family. We enjoyed the hot tub after a big day skiing. Host Olivia was incredible and went to so much effort to make our stay so enjoyable. The taste and presentation of the food was amazing and such a treat to be spoilt with beautiful food each day. She is a great chef! She had lots of local knowledge about the best ski runs and places to go and explore. A very special week with the family. Thank you! 😊
Current Special Offers
Check our website for current availability and chalet options, and keep an eye on our social channel for any last-minute deals or updates throughout the season.
Whilst you count down to your first ski trip, check out our other essential ski tips for beginners – we can’t wait to welcome you!
FAQs- How to Book a Ski Holiday Questions
When is the best time to book a ski holiday for beginners?
For beginners, off-peak weeks such as early December, mid-January, or mid-March are ideal. The slopes are quieter, which means shorter lift queues, better availability for ski lessons, and often more favourable prices. Snow conditions are usually still excellent, and you’ll have more space to build confidence at your own pace.
Do I need to be fit to enjoy a ski holiday?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but a basic level of fitness helps you enjoy skiing more and reduces the risk of injury. Skiing can be physically demanding, especially at first, so preparing with some pre-ski holiday exercises like light cardio or leg strengthening beforehand can make a big difference. That said, plenty of beginners come with little experience and still have a fantastic time!
What should I pack for my first ski trip?
Your ski holiday packing list should include waterproof ski jacket and trousers, thermal base layers, mid-layers like fleeces, ski gloves, hat, goggles, and ski socks. Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, and a helmet (which can be hired). Comfortable footwear and casual clothes for the chalet or après-ski are also must-haves.
How far in advance should we book for a large group?
If you’re booking for a large group, the earlier the better, ideally 9–12 months in advance. Peak dates like the Christmas holidays and February half-term fill up fast, and popular chalets can be up to 50% booked before the current season even ends. Booking early also ensures better availability for ski lessons and transfers.
Can we book multiple chalets close together?
Absolutely. If your group is too large for one chalet, you can often book multiple chalets in close proximity – especially if you book early. We have a selection of chalets ideal for larger groups who’d like to be close to each other, including Chalet Chamois, Brenettes and Lapin. However, the Ski Basics team is on hand to help you find options that are perfect for you and your group.
Are your chalets suitable for families with young children?
Yes, many chalets are family-friendly and come with features that make them ideal for guests skiing with young children.The in-resort driver service makes ski school drop-offs easy, catered chalets take the pressure off meal planning, and your chalet hosts are always on hand to ensure the whole family has a trip to remember. You can also pre-book childcare or baby equipment, making the experience smooth and enjoyable for the whole family.
How far in advance can I book a ski holiday?
You can book your ski holiday up to/approximately 15 months in advance. For example, whilst there’s no fixed opening date, bookings for the following April usually open around February of the current season. Booking early secures the best choice of chalets and dates – especially important if you’re tied to school holidays or travelling as part of a larger group.