Getting to the snow: plan the last part first

Put the activity’s meeting point into your plan, not just the resort name. A route may finish at a car park with a shuttle or walk still to go. Write down each leg: accommodation to parking, parking to village, then village to your booking.

For example, Perisher’s Skitube runs from Bullocks Flat to Perisher Valley and Blue Cow. If you choose that route, compare the station arrival and onward journey with the meeting point on your lesson confirmation. Use the current operator timetable to plan the return as well.

Official reference: Perisher: Skitube route and travel information.

Mountain access rules depend on the road, vehicle, destination and time of year. Read the relevant road authority or parks guidance instead of carrying a rule from one state to another. Check again on the day for restrictions, closures and instructions to fit chains.

NSW National Parks lists winter chain requirements for 2WD vehicles on specified roads in the Thredbo–Perisher area, and recommends carrying chains for other vehicles too. It also describes winter parking restrictions. Read its full guidance for the route and season you are using; owning an AWD does not settle every access question.

Official reference: NSW National Parks: Thredbo–Perisher winter access.

If a bus, coach or rail transfer suits your destination, compare the complete journey. Check the departure point, reservations, luggage allowance, equipment handling and how far you must walk at the other end. For a family, also confirm child travel arrangements with the operator.

If driving, check your vehicle handbook and any rental restrictions before arranging chains. Ask the hire provider about compatibility and fitting. Leave enough time to receive proper instructions. A clear road in one camera frame does not show the condition of every shaded bend on the way.

Save your return stop, departure time and the operator’s contact details offline. Work backwards from the departure to leave time for returning hired equipment and getting everyone changed. If members of your group are finishing different activities, choose a meeting time with room to spare.

The night before, check access and forecast information. Before leaving in the morning, repeat the checks that can change. If the road is closed or your transfer is cancelled, follow the authority or operator’s advice. Do not improvise a mountain detour based on a navigation app.