Are you about to book your winter vacation? Here are some tips to help you prepare. From what you have to take in your suitcase to the rental of ski equipment, going through the special equipment for the car or the physical shape you must have before hitting the slopes, there are several useful things you should know.

Include appropriate ski clothing in your luggage

Ski holidays must be prepared in advance to be ready on the day of departure. Skiing is a high mountain activity and it is important to dress appropriately so as not to get cold and to be well protected. In general, it is advisable to wear three layers of clothing: a base layer that supports the body, an insulating middle layer and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. In addition to your ski suit, pack everyday clothes for when you're in the chalet or hotel and when you go out to dinner. Please don't wear jeans! 

Ski or snowboard equipment rental

The most important activity of a winter holiday in the mountains is, of course, skiing or snowboarding. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right equipment to use throughout the stay. Most ski resorts offer the ability to reserve equipment so you only have to pick it up once there. If this is your first time skiing, we recommend that you go directly to a specialized shop in the resort. So you can try on the boots and they will advise you on which pair of skis or snowboard to choose and how to adjust the bindings.

Think Special Teams

From November 1 to March 31, special equipment is mandatory in Savoy. You must be equipped with winter tires, all-season tires, snow chains or socks. For winter tires, the 3 PMSF logo - 3 peak mountain snow flake - must appear on the tires together with the words MS, M+S or M&S. For all-season tires, the 3 PMSF logo + MS, M+S or M&S lettering must appear on the tires. If you don't, you risk a fine of 135 euros and the immobilization of your vehicle. 

Prepare yourself physically before going to the mountains

Between the altitude and the muscular tension, skiing is not an easy sport for the body. Getting in shape a few months before your trip can help you get over aches and pains and keep you on the snow. There are a number of simple exercises you can do a few days a week to get muscles moving that aren't normally used. Practicing sports throughout the year will keep you in the best shape of your life and ready to face any challenge.

Tips to protect your home while you are on vacation

If your family heads south for the winter in search of sunnier skies, just as you would while on vacation, take steps to protect your home so you can enjoy the season outside without worrying about what you left behind. An empty house is an easy target for burglars, so don't reveal your absence.

• Ask them to suspend your correspondence and the delivery of newspapers. Postal service offices can hold your mail until you return, or you can forward it to your location during the winter.
• Secure windows and doors. Help keep your home intact by installing secure locks on all windows and doors.
• Lighting: Make sure there are bright lights outside and schedule them to come on at dusk. Put random timers on lights throughout the house to give the appearance that someone is home at night.
• Create a home inventory. A home inventory can simplify the process of filing an insurance claim in the event of a break-in or accident while you're away.
• Do not reveal that you are going on a trip. Do not mention your absence on social networks and wait until you return to post those photos of the trip.
• Unplug unnecessary appliances. Unplugging televisions, coffee makers, and small appliances helps protect against electrical fires or electrical surges.
• Hide the "key you keep as a reserve" and deactivate remote control keys. You won't need them while you're away.
• Inform the neighbors. Have a trusted neighbor monitor your property while you're away and alert you to suspicious activity, pick up any signage left at your door, and if possible, park your car periodically in the driveway.
• Snow removal: Hire a snow removal service to clear your sidewalk and driveway.
• Personal home security or alarm services: Some apps connect to your home security system and alert you to changes. Others connect to your mobile phone with a security camera or webcam to provide remote surveillance.
• Consider turning off the water at the main valve. Turn off the water at the water meter so that the water pressure is cut off throughout the house; After turning off the main water valve, flush a toilet or open a faucet to evacuate some of the water from indoor pipes. Also, turn off the water in washing machines and dishwashers to prevent them from leaking, and make sure the garden hose is unplugged.

Problems that start small in a neglected home can escalate if left unaddressed. You can avoid them with a little preparation.

• Prevent freezing of pipes. Add extra insulation around pipes in the attic, basement, or crawl space, keep the thermostat at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, and replace the thermostat battery as well. Some thermostats offer remote control so you can check and change the temperature in your home while you're away. Install a whole-home water leak detection system that will alert you if there is a leak. Then you can program it remotely. This helpful guide has more tips to prevent frozen pipes and water damage in your home.
• Clean gutters and trim trees. Cut down any dry branches or trees near your house that could fall due to the weight of the snow or ice. Clean all gutters to help drain melted ice and possibly prevent water from pooling and causing ice clogs on your roof.
• Prevent pests. Get rid of any food that is not in an airtight metal or glass container. Then empty, clean, and defrost your refrigerator and freezer. Also, inspect your home's foundation inside and out and seal any holes.