There is a lot that goes into planning a winter mountain getaway. Flights, airport transfers, lift tickets, ski school, gear fitting, groceries... that leaves a lot of room for things to go sideways. The good news? Most ski vacation mishaps are entirely avoidable.
Having helped guests plan mountain vacations for over 25 years, we’ve seen where things tend to derail, but we know the secrets to making your trip run like clockwork.
Before you start packing, here are 10 common assumptions to leave behind:
Famous last words. Coordinating one airport transfer for the entire group sounds efficient and cost-effective until one flight is delayed by three hours. For groups arriving on different flights, build some flexibility into transportation plans rather than assuming everyone will land on schedule.
Sometimes. But often it just means navigating snowy mountain passes in an unfamiliar vehicle with tired kids in the back after a stressful travel day. Let someone else do the driving. Book a private transfer from the airport; then use our free on-demand shuttles to get you to the slopes and anywhere else around town. No paying for parking.
That’s a gamble. Regional mountain airports aren’t major metropolitan hubs, and rideshare availability can be limited, especially on busy weekends, holidays, during bad weather, and late-night arrivals. A pre-arranged private transfer means your driver is waiting for you, not the other way around.
You and everyone else arriving on Saturday afternoon. Mountain grocery stores get crowded and heavily picked over on peak days. Add a delayed flight to the equation and your quick grocery stop can become a late-night scramble for dinner and empty stomachs in the morning. Arrange for pre-arrival grocery stocking. Having drinks, dinner, and next morning’s breakfast already waiting in your refrigerator means you’re having a glass of wine in front of the fire instead of standing in the check-out line.
Schlepping suitcases is one thing; lugging baby gear is another. Pack ‘n Plays, strollers, backpacks, and other equipment, even toys, can be rented and waiting at your vacation home when you arrive. Pack the favorite stuffed animals and blankets. Leave the equipment at home.
There is nothing worse. Your first morning should be about catching first chair, not wasting half the day while everyone gets their boots fitted. Reserve equipment in advance and arrange for in-home fitting and delivery for the evening you arrive.
Don't risk it. Ski school can book up well in advance during holidays and peak periods, particularly if you need spots for several children in the same age group or want a private instructor. Once your vacation dates are locked in, ski school should be near the top of your to-do list.
Purchasing tickets on-site is rarely the smartest (or most cost-effective) strategy anymore. Figure out passes and lift tickets early and avoid standing in line at the ticket office.
Right. For a birthday, anniversary, holiday dinner, or simply an occasion worth celebrating, instead of trying to secure a hard-to-get restaurant reservation and getting the whole group out the door on time, just stay home. A personal chef can create a memorable dinner right in your vacation home while you relax and enjoy the evening together. And yes, we can also make sure you don’t forget the cake and flowers.
Maybe it won’t. But even if you haven't felt it on previous trips, arriving at 8,000+ feet can hit you differently each time. Stay hydrated. Take it a little easier on the first day and take your time to acclimate. Options like portable oxygen rentals or in-home IV hydration therapy can also keep everyone feeling 100%.
The most effortless ski vacations don't happen by accident. They're stress free because the details were handled before anyone arrived. And you don't have to figure it out alone. When you stay with Moving Mountains, our guest services team coordinates the moving parts that turn a complex group trip into a true luxury vacation.
