The Joy of Spontaneity: Why Last-Minute Ski Trips Are On the Rise

If you’re looking to escape this winter, then the appeal of last-minute ski holidays might be difficult to discount. These holidays offer a sense of freedom and spontaneity that more and more tourists are finding irresistible. Let’s take a closer look at the appeal of this form of holiday, and discuss why it’s on the rise.

Why last-minute holidays are gaining traction

The rise in interest in last-minute travel coincides, roughly, with a rise in remote working. If you’re able to work from a foreign country, and to do so at any given hour of the day, then you might find it easy to stay in a ski resort for long periods – especially if you’re not worried about when you travel. You might get up early, work for a few hours, go out skiing, and then work a little more during the evening.

What to look for in a last-minute ski deal

The trip that fits your needs will tend to depend on your personal preferences, your level of experience, and the time of year. High-altitude resorts tend to enjoy more reliable snowfall, which can be a particular boon late in the season. You’ll also want to establish whether the resort really suits your needs. Beginners might look for quality ski schools and forgiving slopes, while more experienced skiers might forgo these things in search of the best deal.

Packing and planning on short notice

If you’re looking for maximum convenience, you’ll want to pick out a resort that offers quality equipment hire. Good boots, bindings, skis, and helmets are essential. This means arriving early and getting a good fit. If you want to supply your own gear, you’ll need to ensure that you can easily take it on board the plane. This is something that only experienced skiers, with a strong idea of what they need, should consider.

It’s also a good idea to invest in the right travel insurance. Be sure that skiing-related injuries are covered, and that you have a GHIC card if you’re going to be holidaying in Europe.

Best destinations for spontaneous ski adventures

Certain resorts benefit from excellent facilities and short travel times, which makes them a great match for last-minute skiing. You might fly to Geneva and head to Chamonix, La Clusaz, or Morzine. Or, if you’d prefer an Austrian adventure, there’s Kitzbühel or St. Anton, both of which can be reached from Innsbruck.