Snowboarding has a slight edge over skiing when it comes to the cool factor. Though snowboarders look a little like aliens with all the gear on, they are massively skilled athletes who have put a lot of hard work and practise into becoming one of the best. That’s not to say you have to aim for Olympic gold medal status. A lot of people love to go on snowboarding holidays and if that’s you, there are a few things you’re going to need before you book it.

Firstly and most importantly, you need the snowboard. Really the protective gear should be imperative, but if you don’t have the board, there is no need for protective gear (unless you are exceptionally clumsy day-to-day). As it’s pretty chilly on these snowboarding holidays, you are also going to need a decent pair of gloves, the thick kind that make you feel like you don’t have hands anymore. Clothing too, will need to be substantial to not only protect you, but keep the icy cold at bay!

We don’t recommend you try and teach yourself, though. Have a few lessons before you endeavour to do it by yourself because we don’t want to hear about any broke arms, legs or necks…