Winter’s here, which can only mean one thing: the long, slow, and hectically busy slog from the first of the Christmas adverts to the last of the mince pies. But this isn’t true, is it? It’s easy to mope about the stresses of the festive period, but easier still to sack it all off and find your inner peace in the best of the European winter.
I’m suggesting, of course, that you sneak your way out of the Christmas workplace sprints and last-minute present-shopping, instead investing some time into you – by running away to the winter holiday of your dreams. Sure, bring your family if you really have to, as long as you’re fully committing to the joy of Europe in the snow this winter. Read on for tips on what exactly this should entail.
Choosing Your Snowy European Destination
First, the question of ages: where on Earth do you go? Or more accurately, where in Europe do you go? For the ultimate snowy experience in Europe, you’ll naturally look first to the Alps – but again, the Alps span many countries and thousands of miles. The real question is “how hard am I willing to work for this getaway?”
There are many easily-accessible and family-friendly resorts in the Alps, which make taking your household with you a relative breeze; ski holidays in France are made easier for the sheer ease of getting to France and then up into the French Alps. If you’re going alone, and if you’ve a little backpacking experience under your belt already, then maybe you’ll benefit from a challenge – something a little less Alpine, and a little more Arctic…
What to Pack and Stay Safe in Snowy Conditions
Wherever you do deign to go, you’ll need to pack accordingly. This is a serious undertaking, no matter how much levity you’re approaching your travels with; stronger people have suffered serious weather-related injuries in less inclement conditions than you find in the Alps and in northern Scandinavia.
Naturally, thermal layers are your priority here. Leggings, undershirts, jumpers, over-trousers and padded gloves are all musts, as are some decent ski goggles. Even if not skiing, you may thank yourself when encountering biting winds on your impromptu morning hike! If you are taking the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure sports’ to heart, then you’ll want some additional safety equipment, including but not limited to a first aid kit and an avalanche beacon. Finally, a paper map of the region could be a lifesaver if you get lost while cross-country.
Tips to Save Money and Maximise Your Winter Trip
As a final note, it’s not easy planning such a bucket-list-y trip without acknowledging the sheer cost that can be involved. If you’re worried about the state of your bank account before even buying your train tickets, you’ll want to apply some frugal thinking to your travels for a more affordable holiday experience.
Travelling off-peak is an easy way to save tonnes on your travel costs, as well as a way to enjoy your destination more without the polluting influence of fellow tourists! Try also to self-cater where you can; the devil is in those ‘all-inclusive’ costs, after all…