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From Application to Employment: How to Work a Ski Season
The ultimate packing guide for your ski season
Looking for a winter job that's both exciting and rewarding? Consider working a ski season! However, if you're a UK national looking to work in European ski resorts after Brexit, there are some important things to keep in mind. This guide will walk you through the process of finding ski season job opportunities, as well as provide tips on where to look, how to apply and how to make the most of your winter adventure. With careful planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable experience working in the snow-covered mountains.
You don't have to spend as much money on your winter gear as you think
If you're interested in working a ski season but worried about the cost of gear, don't fret. It's important to budget wisely to make the most of your experience. Before your first season, make a list of what you'll need to buy, such as ski gear, warm clothing, and accommodations.
There are ways to save money and still have everything you need. One way to save money is by purchasing used gear instead of brand-new equipment. Many people sell their gently used ski jackets, pants, and other gear at a fraction of the cost of buying new. This can be a great way to get everything you need for your first ski season without breaking the bank. Plus, you'll be doing your part to reduce waste and promote sustainability by giving these items a second life on the slopes.
Check out WhoSki.com, Vinted and Facebook buy and sell groups for affordable deals. As well as checking out your local charity shops and looking through second-hand fairs to see what they have available.
If you are heading to a ski resort in Europe, don’t leave the shopping until you get to the resort. There are no second-hand fairs such as you can expect in North America.
Don't blow your entire budget on expensive gear in the first few weeks. Instead, consider renting or buying used equipment.
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Pack the essentials for a winter in the mountains
Preparing for a ski season can be overwhelming, but with some careful planning, you can make sure you have everything you need. Start by focusing on the big items, such as your winter clothing and work clothes, and do some research to make sure you have everything you need.
Some essential items to bring include:
- warm layers
- waterproof outerwear
- sturdy boots
- gloves or mittens
- a hat or beanie
- goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and snow glare.
It’s also a good idea to bring a backpack to carry your gear and snacks while on the mountain.
Don’t forget to pack any necessary medications or personal items as well.
Once you have the essentials covered, you can start thinking about the smaller items that will make your season more comfortable and enjoyable.
When it comes to toiletries, make sure to take the basics with you to get you started. If you have specific products that you rely on, you might want to take enough to last you the entire season. However, you can order most things online to get delivered once you arrive at the resort, costing you much less than trying to travel with them.
Check out my downloadable ski season packing checklists to get you organised for a successful ski season. bu mainly, don't panic. Take it step by step, and you'll be ready for your ski season in no time!
TOP TIP: Sign up for Amazon Prime within whichever country you are working in and enjoy the free shipping to keep you topped up on your essential products.
10+ things to pack from the expert seasonnaires
Over the years, I've always asked my staff what the most important things that they brought out with them for their ski season were. Here are the top 10 answers.
- Teabags – always seems to be Yorkshire tea!
- Bedding – this was from a freelance team that drove out to the resort and brought lots of homely touches for their accommodation.
- Chargers – enough plugs and chargers for all your electrical items.
- Good snow boots – not fashionable snow boots. Look for boots with rubber soles, not plastic. Plastic will slip on the ice and snow.
- Lots of base layers and thermals. Always work under jeans and normal clothes. And finding thermals that look good enough to wear as leggings and casual tops.
- Cadburys chocolate – ok, this is me! Everyone who comes to visit me always arrives with a block of Cadburys. But basically, whatever your (legal!) treat of choice is, pop some in your bag.
- Decent headphones. Especially if you're sharing accommodation.
- All the moisturising products: lipsil, body, and face moisturiser. Much cheaper in the UK than in a ski resort.
- Reusable water bottle. Both a soft bottle to take skiing and also one to use whilst at work or in your accommodation.
- Slippers and warm socks for at home. Staff accommodations are rarely carpeted. So having toasty feet will help keep you warmer and dry in your ski accommodation.
- You can get most medications in your ski resort quite easily. But if you are coming out for the UK, these items are a fraction of the price of European pharmacies:
- Cold and flue capsules or sachets – don't really exist in France
- Strepsils – expensive abroad.
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen. Super cheap from pound shops.
- A lightweight fancy dress costume. Something simple that you can throw on as/when needed. And trust me, odds are it will be needed.
- Old school and vintage ski suits. Don't spend a fortune. Head to your charity shops or check out WhoSki.com for some absolute bargains.
BONUS: The most important thing in your backpack
This is something that a lot of people can get stuck on, but it's the most important thing you will need in your backpack this winter ski season: travel insurance.
You will need travel insurance whilst you are traveling, whether it's during this ski season or another holiday. It is the most important thing you will pack.
Ski Insurance was there when I had guests break arms and legs; it was there when my child needed to go to hospital, and it was there when a friend was caught in an avalanche – he's totally fine now!
Basically, what I'm trying to say is that you never know what will happen. And it doesn't just cover injuries but delays, cancellations, and missing luggage.
For seasonnaires, digital nomads, and remote workers, a great company is SafetyWing. They offer affordable plans, have good customer service, and are easy to use when you are on the road – or ski slopes!
That's La Plagne & how to pack successfully for your ski season
Working a ski season can be a unique and exciting experience, but it’s important to remember to have fun and embrace the lifestyle. Take advantage of your time off to explore the mountain, try new activities like snowshoeing or ice skating, and socialize with your coworkers and other seasonal workers.
Read the next steps in my “how to work a ski season series” here.
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