So you want to get a big group of friends together and hit the slopes. But where do you even start? For some, planning a group trip can be more intimidating than tackling a steep chute. But have no fear; whether it be for a quick weekend or a longer week trip, read below to find out how to plan a successful trip that will be talked about for years to come.
Pick your location, solidify a date. Bigger trips across the country that include planning accommodations and flights should be booked a few months out. Give yourself enough time to research locations, hotels/homes for rent, cheap lift tickets or deals and flights. Typically, to give you an idea, spring break trips should be finalized by December, or trips in January/February should be finalized by November. If you're staying closer to home, give yourself a few weeks to find the perfect accommodations and finalize planning. Remember though...if you've selected a popular holiday weekend (I'm talking about what I call "The Big 5"; Christmas, New Years, MLK weekend, President's day weekend and spring break), plan at least a month out to guarantee accommodations.
Finalize your framework. Flights. Hotel/Rental Home. Transportation. Lift tickets. Book your flights if you're traveling far; try using sites like #kayak, #googleflights or #ITAmatrix to search a variety of flights and dates. At this time, also book your accommodations; I have found fantastic homes to rent that fit a large group on #VRBO, #airbnb and #homeaway. Most of the sites all have similar homes though; I personally don't have a favorite. Remember to also book transportation to and from the airport if needed. Some resorts offer shuttles from the airport, some resorts you may just want an #uber, #lyft, taxi service or public transportation to get you there and some resorts you may want your own car to explore the area with your group. Be sure to plan ahead to determine your best transportation need. Finally, make sure you snag up your lift tickets, so you can get onto that awesome terrain you've been dreaming of. Most resorts have cheaper lift tickets if they are bought in advance, or as part of a ski-and-stay type package if you choose to stay at a resort owned hotel. Check out your resorts website to see if they are running any deals in addition to trying sites like #liftopia for discounted tickets or checking out a multi-mountain pass like the M.A.X. pass. Read more tips/tricks here from #livingonthecheap.
Utilize #googlesheets or excel. I have found that using a shared spreadsheet is incredibly helpful for sharing information with those involved and to keep track of and compare information for flights, accommodations and excursions/activities. Stay organized!
Research unique activities near the area. If you have a day to spare on your trip that you can.. *gasp* take a day off from skiing, find an uncommon activity within the local area. Don't be ashamed if you take a day off; it's important to give those ski legs a break in order to recharge and to experience something different you may not be able to near home. Go fly fishing, explore a nearby national park by snowmobile, take a helicopter tour, go dog sledding, snowshoe, ride a bobsled....the options are immense. Book ahead to ensure you won't miss out! Check out sites like #tripadvisor to read up on reviews and put the information into your trusty spreadsheet to help decide! Depending on the activity, booking in advance can mean anything from the day before to 3 weeks before. Check with the company you want to adventure with for their recommendations on how far in advance to book.
Finalize the smaller details. If you're new to the sport and need rentals, check out the pricing from the resort and compare it to rentskis.com to find the best deal. Ask about group pricing if you have a newbie group starting out! Next start thinking about the fuel you'll need to keep shredding up the slopes day to day: food and libations. If you're planning on grabbing the majority of your grub on the mountain, be prepared for $15 chicken nuggets and $10 beers. Try to stock up on snacks/alcohol at an off-resort grocery store if possible and consider cooking a meal or two to save your wallet. For big groups, cook easy quick meals that are sure to please and filling like tacos, burgers, pasta, etc. Also start to research your après ski locations. Lets be honest..it's important too!
Pack. Pack lightly to ensure the smoothest travel possible (I know..it's easier said than done),
but don't skimp out on layers. You never know the unpredictability of the weather; read up on my other blog post here about how to survive cold temps. Remember the amount of gear you'll have to be accountable for while traveling. Skis, boots, ski clothing, helmet, regular clothing, etc...and that's not even accounting for the smaller items such as gloves, goggles, toiletries, etc. Seems overwhelming, doesn't it? So pack lightly. *stay tuned for a separate post on how to pack for a trip*
Expect the unexpected. Know it most likely will not go exactly as planned. It rarely does and that's life, right? There may be flight delays, unpredictable weather, accommodation difficulties, etc. But remember...everyone will have fun regardless. I mean, who has ever said "let's spend a lot of money to have a miserable time on the slopes"...no one! Regardless of the curveballs thrown at you during the trip, take them in stride and laugh at them in years to come.
Enjoy your trip! Don't focus on planning the perfect trip. Once you're able to get on the mountain, all your stresses will disappear.
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