Family snow trips to Perisher Blue

Finally the winter season is underway and that long-awaited family vacation is on the horizon. Now is the time to get away from the pressures of work and everyday life with the family and be refreshed by spending time in the outdoors of Perisher Blue.

Though before packing the car and heading to the mountains with the family a little preparation is the key to ensure a fun and relaxing family snow holiday, so here are a few helpful hints brought to us by Perisher Blue to make sure that time away from work is well spent.

Enusure the family is dressed to impress by wearing warm clothing
The key to a great winter vacation is to come prepared with the right clothing. Staying warm out on the slopes is important, so make sure you layer up. Start with a good base. A great idea is to invest in a pair of Skins or X-Bionic Underwear, which are specifically designed to regulate body temperature when exercising and to keep you warm. Then throw on a fleece and finish up with a waterproof and windproof jacket. The Australian alpine areas are prone to extreme weather changes so it is a good idea to be prepared.

Spend a little on the right gear
It’s a good idea to spend a bit of money and make sure you have the right gear. The first items on the list should be some decent gloves and goggles. Goggles with a removable lens are best so they can be adapted to the conditions. It doesn’t hurt to get the latest in snow fashion either, but make sure it’s technical waterproof, breathable clothing. Looking good on the slopes and at après time can have its definite advantages, but making sure you are comfortable is equally important!

Equipment check
After blowing the dust of the winter equipment, make sure you have your gear tuned and waxed. A professional hot-wax will make a pair of skis and a snowboard last longer, go faster, turn more easily and be more responsive on the mountain. Maintaining equipment is a task that pays dividends on the hill. Most ski resorts have on-mountain experts that can take care of all your ski and board repairs, waxing and tuning needs, alternatively you can hire your equipment.

Safe passage take care when driving
Be sure you take breaks on your journey to and from the snow and don’t rush. If you are planning on driving to the snow, you would be wise to hire some snow chains. You can stop in Cooma, Albury or Jindabyne and pick up a set along the way. Remember, it is compulsory for two-wheel-drive cars to carry chains in the Kosciuszko National Park. It is always necessary to be prepared even if conditions look fine. When in the NSW Snowy Mountains, Perisher Blue’s underground alpine railway, the Skitube, is a good option; you don’t need chains to ride the train! The Skitube departs from Bullocks Flat terminal (located below the natural snow-line) and winds through the Ramshead range to Perisher Valley where you can disembark. It then travels on to Blue Cow Mountain.

For details on the fun you can have at Perisher Blue, Australia’s most popular ski resort go to www.perisherblue.com.au