I have been skiing with my 2 boys (14/16) since they were young.

I have always prebooked
Skis/Boots
Lift Pass
Ski School.

I am planning a trip to SOLL in Austria during February, an area I have never been to before.

Ski suits I normally buy ex hire kit in the UK from ski specialists. Be wary of taking or buying skis as airlines charge £15-£20 each way to transport them.

Depending who you are going with you may be able to get a learn-to ski package which will cover all the hire equipment (except ski suits). These normally represent very good value.

One tip I would give is take something to hold the skis together when carrying them - strong elastic bands , Velcro fastening. I normally use catheter leg bag straps (but I am lucky as I work in a hospital and they are easily available!).

Good luck in your skiing and hope everyone enjoys it.

I'm not sure if this post will be too late, but thought I might catch you before you left!

I've been ski-ing with a few different holiday companies now, and they almost always offer "learn to ski" packages which comprise ski & boot hire, lift pass, and 5 days of lessons. They are usually good value for money. You have everything fitted as soon as you arrive in the resort and it is yours for the week. Some companies also offer a ski-kindergarten for the younger children, where they ski for part of the day and do traditional nursery activities for the rest. A friend of mine booked this in Bulgaria for her 6 year old daughter last year and she had a ball.

I hope you enjoy yourself!

Amy