Enjoy the Wide Open Spaces
One of the best things about getting on the snow before everyone else is that you’re likely to have the slopes to yourself. Imagine it… perfectly groomed empty slopes, ski lifts with no danger of a queue building up, the first big powder dumps of winter all to yourself. It seems almost selfish doesn’t it – but really you’re just doing your bit to support the local economy in resort. There’ll be no queues in the mountain restaurant either and you’ll not have to queue at the bar or risk being turned away in the fully-booked restaurant because, well, they DO have spaces for walk-in customers.
Pay Less
The even greater miracle of supply-and-demand ski slope economics is that even though you get all the advantages of being one of the first on those empty slopes, you’re likely to pay much less for the privilege. Everything from flights, your chalet accommodation and many of your other in resort costs can be significantly discounted, in some cases half what they are just a week or two later, simply because the ski resorts need business before holidays, then it becomes a case of prices shooting up as demand rapidly out strips supply.
Get The Best of the Gear
Another perk for early arrivals in resort is that, if you’re renting your equipment, you may well find yourself in brand new boots, stood on the latest skis or board, all new . Whether it’s beginner equipment on expert-level demo gear, you’re likely to be the first to test it. Oh and no wait in the rental shop either.
Earn Bragging Rights
Your friends back home will be waiting in much anticipation for their ski holiday later in the winter. They’ll also be paying much more for it; to battle through busy airports and roads, to reach those more crowded slopes. Whilst you’re whizzing down the mountain, they’re sat at their desks, waiting to hear from you about your start-of-the-season ski trip. Imagine their delighted faces as you live stream videos of you descending that pristine, empty ski slope and how they’ll be almost tearful with appreciative joy, seeing your Instagram images.