*Collaborative post*
The idea of trading a flight for a train carriage or a flexible road trip is gaining traction, driven by a desire for a more relaxed and mindful way to travel. Whether you are looking to cut costs or simply enjoy the freedom of the open road, escaping the skies for your next winter break can transform your trip. The snow awaits you.
Swapping the stress of flying for a more scenic and sustainable adventure allows you to embrace the entire experience, from the moment you leave home to your first run on the mountain.
- Choose your route and destination
When you plan a ski trip from the UK without flying, your choice of destination is key. Some of the most accessible resorts are found in France, Switzerland, and Austria, all reachable by train or car.
You can begin your journey by taking the Eurostar Ski Train directly to the French Alps, connecting you to popular resorts like Les Arcs and La Plagne. This option is a fantastic way to bypass the hassle of multiple transfers.
Alternatively, a ferry crossing from Dover to Calais offers a quick connection to a road network that leads you deep into the mountains. From there, you can choose from a range of resorts, from the family-friendly slopes of Morzine to the high-altitude challenges of Zermatt.
- Driving to the slopes
Taking your own car or a larger vehicle gives you a tremendous amount of freedom and flexibility. You can pack all your ski gear and luggage without worrying about airline restrictions or excess baggage fees, allowing you to bring that extra jacket or a spare pair of skis.
If you decide to borrow a friend’s van for the journey, you can get a policy for temporary van insurance to cover you for the trip without the long-term commitment. This means you can share the driving and costs with a group of friends, making the journey much more affordable.
The ability to stop whenever you like, take scenic detours, and have your vehicle with you at the resort for easy trips to the supermarket, or nearby towns makes the journey a stress-free experience.
- Packing and preparation
A road or rail trip demands a different approach to packing than flying. For starters, you don’t have to worry about the weight of your luggage, so you can pack everything you need to be comfortable on the slopes and on the journey, especially when travelling by car.
You should also keep essentials like snacks, water, and your travel documents in a small backpack that is always accessible.
Consider using packing cubes to keep your gear organised and to maximise space, making it easy to find what you need without rummaging through a large bag.
- Making the journey part of the holiday
Instead of seeing the travel days as an obstacle to overcome, embrace them as part of your holiday. By breaking up your journey, you can turn a long drive or train ride into a mini-adventure.
Consider stopping over in a picturesque French town like Reims or a Belgian city such as Bruges for a night. This allows you to explore local culture, enjoy a delicious meal, and get a good night’s sleep before the final push to the mountains.
