Essentials for a Solo Snowboarding Trip in Europe

From Tignes to St Anton, Europe has so many great resorts that are perfect for snowboarders of all levels. While most people typically visit these destinations with friends and/or family, there are those who want to hit the powder but who don’t have anyone to travel with. In these cases, it’s also acceptable to do a solo snowboarding adventure. As long as you plan everything in the right manner, you can still have an excellent time while on the slopes.

Ensure You Are Skilled Enough

A snowboarding showing his skill

Image credit: John Lemieux, license Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)

As you’re going alone, you’ll need to be confident in your abilities. After all, you may not have someone to assist you if something goes wrong. Know how well you can snowboard and only stick to runs that are suitable for your level. In this way, you can then stay safe and have a great time tearing up the powder without worrying about what will happen if you are injured along the way.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

A pair of snowboards

Another way to reduce the risk of these solo travels is to be aware of the climate. After all, weather can seriously affect the safety of snowboarders on the slopes so it is important to read the forecasts and go over the risks involved. Remember the following so you can make a smarter decision as to whether to hit the slopes on your own or not:

  • Warmer temperatures can create slush
  • Rapid fluctuations can produce icy patches
  • Avalanches can occur in adverse conditions
  • Sunny days can induce snow blindness

Brush up on your knowledge about how weather affects the slopes, stay aware of the upcoming forecasts, and you should keep safe on your solo snow adventure.

Choose Social Accommodation

Crested Butte Mountain Resort

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Of course, travelling alone isn’t as fun as going along with a group. Even if you leave home on your own, you can still meet likeminded travellers once you’ve arrived at your chosen resort. This is especially true if you choose accommodation such as hostels and dormitories which increase your chances of socialising with others.

When planning your trip, talk to a reputable agent about which accommodation is suitable. Firms like Snow Finders Ski Holidays have a variety of packages too, ensuring that you can then meet up with other snowboarders once you have checked into your mountainside resort. In this way, you can hit the slopes while having someone to share the fun and excitement with.

Pack All Your Essential Gear

Pink, purple, and white snowboarding gear

Image Credit: northkoreatravel, license Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0)

We’d recommend that solo snowboarders bring along their own equipment rather than renting it out. This is because you are relying on your gear to keep you safe and comfortable while tearing up the powder. While packing for your next mountainside adventure, be sure to include the following:

  • Snowboard
  • Boots
  • Bindings
  • Jacket
  • Trousers
  • Gloves
  • Goggles
  • Helmet

There are numerous other accessories that are essential for your safety and your convenience. Detailed information about all of the essential snowboarding gear can be found both online and through your local ski store so make sure you know what to bring before you depart!

Notify Others of Your Travel Plans

Snowboarders about to jump from a ski lift

Image Credit: frozenchipmunk, license Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)

Our last piece of advice is to let someone at home know about your intended travel itinerary and when you plan on returning home. In this way, they will be aware that something has gone wrong if you fail to check in with them or arrive at your house at a certain time. Make sure to inform them of the following:

  • The hotels you are staying at
  • The specifics of your flight details
  • Other transport plans (buses, trains)

Giving someone trusted a photocopy of your passport, insurance and credit card is advised too so they can go to the authorities with the relevant information if you suddenly disappear off the map due to an accident on the slopes. While there is a low risk of injuring yourself while snowboarding, at the very least you can prepare for a quick response if something indeed happens.

These tips will help you plan your future solo snowboarding adventure with little headache, ensuring you’re kept safe and comfortable on the slopes and maximising your enjoyment while there. The right organisational techniques will go a long way towards enhancing your next European mountain excursion.

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