If you’re planning to hit one of the Victorian snow resorts this year, you might be a little unsure of what to pack, when to go, and what type of gear you should have. Here’s our handy top ten list of tips thanks to Snow Victoria, so that you can get ready to go to the snow!
1. The snow season runs from early June until the end of September. Early season and springtime (Sep) are excellent times to visit as there are loads of great deals. Midweek throughout the season (except for school holidays) is another perfect time to visit as accommodation is normally cheaper. Of course, weekends are also fun!
2. When dressing for cold weather, it's always best to dress in layers to insulate yourself from cold temperatures. As your activities increase and if you start skiing or snowboarding, you'll most likely warm up and want to peel off some layers.
3. Shoes or boots that are waterproof with good tread for walking in snow, warm long socks and a beanie, and a fleece jacket are ideal for the cold weather.
4. For kids, make sure you label all their equipment and clothing in case they lose something – and pack items that will keep them warm and dry including gloves.
5. Snow sports equipment like skis, snowboards and helmets are available for hire at the resorts, ski hire shops or towns along the way. Other gear like gloves and goggles are not. It’s important to check with the specific resort you visit to see what types of clothing and equipment are available.
6. Besides playing in the snow, the resorts have plenty of fun in store for kids, plus some exciting characters to meet and even a weekly show like Pete the Dragon at Falls Creek. Some resorts also offer day care and babysitting services so you can enjoy the slopes knowing your children are still having fun.
7. For overnight stays, each resort has its own unique options to fit your every need and budget. Depending on your preference, you can choose from an apartment or chalet living to a more hotel-like atmosphere or a shared lodge style.
8. Most skiers choose to drive directly to the resort, but it’s important to check weather and road conditions beforehand. Plan on having chains when driving through the mountains, as the resorts require you to have them by law, even if you have a 4wd. You might not need to use them, but have them on hand. They can be hired from any ski hire shop and some petrol stations.
9. There are no petrol stations on the mountain so you will need to have a full tank of fuel prior to heading up to the resort, but there are plenty of petrol stations located at the nearby towns to the resorts.
10. Sometimes when you’re far away from home, it’s hard to relax if you think you’ll be without the conveniences you’re used to. That’s why the resorts offer you a “home away from home” feeling with services like supermarkets or general stores, ATMs, and medical staff on hand.
ABOUT VICTORIAN SNOW RESORTS
Majestic snow capped mountains, gorgeous in-snow villages, culinary delights, family fun and snow ball fights, husky sled dog tours, scenic chairlift tours and spa treatments make a Snow Victoria holiday the must-do winter holiday experience for every family.
Victoria’s alpine resorts include Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Lake Mountain, Mt Baw Baw and Dinner Plain, and each resort offers a unique snow experience. Besides having snowball fights and making snow angels, the resorts have plenty of fun in store for the little ones!
You and the kids can also take a ski or snowboarding lesson, and hit the slopes at your own pace, in your own time. Kids can learn with other children in a fun environment, and adults can take part in a group or individual lesson. Groups are a great chance to interact with other skiers or snowboarders, and share your tips for tackling the slopes!
For the person who hasn’t visited the snow in a while, now is the perfect time to return with the kids and your family. Imagine watching their little faces light up when seeing snow for the first time – a visit will capture your heart all over again, and help to create new family memories.
A Snow Victoria holiday also offers accommodation for varied budgets (from a shared lodge with bunk style beds to an apartment with plenty of space for the whole family), and all-inclusive package deals for the budget conscious.
With mountains of choice across Victoria’s alpine resorts, this snow season is go season. To find out more, visit www.snowvictoria.com and get ready to go to the snow!