Snowbusters

Snowbusters FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers about booking, travel, skiing and snowboarding, accommodation, and preparing for your trip.

General

18 questions
How can I sign up for particular event, dates?

You can sign up for specific events and dates through our online booking system. Simply browse our available trips, select your preferred dates, and complete the registration process. Early booking is recommended as popular trips fill up quickly.

Can I come on my own?

Absolutely! Many of our participants join trips solo and make lifelong friendships. Our groups are welcoming and inclusive, making it easy to connect with fellow snow enthusiasts who share your passion for the mountains.

Is it possible to book a particular trip for different dates and organize it exclusively for myself?

Yes, we offer private group bookings and can customize trips for specific dates. Contact us directly to discuss your requirements, group size, and preferred dates. Private trips may have different pricing and minimum group size requirements.

How do I get there?

Transportation arrangements vary by destination. We provide detailed travel information including recommended flights, meeting points, and local transportation options. Some trips include airport transfers, while others require you to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Is accommodation and local transport included in price?

Yes, accommodation and local transport during the trip are included in most of our packages. This includes daily transport to ski areas, lifts, and mountain huts. International flights and transport to the meeting point are typically not included unless specifically stated.

Will someone pick me up from the airport?

Airport pickup is included in some trips and available as an optional service for others. Check your specific trip details or contact us to arrange airport transfers. We'll provide you with all necessary contact information and meeting instructions.

Can I extend my trip?

Yes, many participants choose to extend their stay to explore the region further. We can help you arrange additional accommodation and activities. Extended stays are at your own expense and arrangement, but we're happy to provide recommendations.

What is the minimum skill requirement for this trip?

Skill requirements vary by trip type. We offer programs for all levels from beginners to advanced riders. Check the specific trip description for skill requirements. Our guides will assess your abilities and ensure you're in the appropriate group for your safety and enjoyment.

How many days are we skiing or snowboarding?

The number of skiing/snowboarding days varies by trip length and destination. Most trips include 4-6 active days on the slopes, with some rest days for recovery or alternative activities. Check your specific trip itinerary for exact details.

What are the accommodations like?

We use a variety of accommodations depending on the trip, including mountain huts, chalets, hotels, and guesthouses. All accommodations are carefully selected for comfort, location, and authentic mountain atmosphere. Shared rooms are standard, with private room options sometimes available.

Can solo travelers get their own room/tent?

Private rooms may be available for an additional supplement, subject to availability. We'll do our best to accommodate single room requests, but this isn't always possible in mountain huts or during peak seasons. Contact us when booking to discuss options.

Are there any age restrictions?

Most trips welcome participants aged 18 and above. Some family-friendly trips accept younger participants when accompanied by adults. Specific age requirements are listed in individual trip descriptions. Contact us for youth or family trip options.

Is food provided?

Most trips include breakfast and dinner, with lunch often available at mountain restaurants (at your own expense). We accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences when possible - please inform us during booking. Meal arrangements vary by destination and accommodation type.

How much extra money should people budget?

Budget €30-50 per day for lunches, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses. Additional costs may include equipment rental, lift passes (if not included), and optional activities. We provide a detailed expense breakdown with your trip information.

What gear do I need to bring?

Essential gear includes appropriate ski/snowboard clothing, helmet, goggles, and personal items. Equipment rental (skis, snowboards, boots) is available at most destinations. We provide a comprehensive packing list with your trip confirmation, including recommended gear and optional items.

Should I purchase travel insurance? If so, do you have a recommended provider?

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, and winter sports activities. Many standard policies exclude skiing/snowboarding, so ensure your policy specifically covers winter sports. We can recommend suitable providers upon request.

Is the trip guaranteed?

Trips are confirmed once minimum group sizes are met, typically 2-4 weeks before departure. In rare cases of insufficient bookings or extreme weather conditions, we may need to reschedule or cancel. We'll notify you immediately and offer alternative dates or full refunds.

Can I cancel the trip?

Yes, you can cancel your booking. Cancellation terms depend on how far in advance you cancel. Please refer to our terms and conditions for detailed cancellation policies and refund schedules. We highly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

Alps Ski Vacations

11 questions
Is Level 3 my level?

You ski parallel on red runs and want blacks, speed and variable snow under control. If reds are still a stretch, the Level 2 Edge Up camp is for you. If you are an instructor, racer or very strong skier, ask us about Level 4 Apex.

Applies to: Ski Technique Command Camp

Will there be enough snow in December?

Yes. The Kitzsteinhorn glacier above Kaprun has snow early in the season, and we move between Kaprun, Zell am See and Saalbach to ski where conditions are best.

Applies to: Ski Technique Command Camp, Ski Technique Edge Up Camp

How many people are in the group?

At least 3 and at most {capacity} skiers, all at the same level.

Applies to: Ski Technique Command Camp, Ski Technique Edge Up Camp

Is this only hard training?

No. It is intensive and physically demanding, but skiing is still about fun. Our coaches keep it relaxed, interesting and enjoyable while pushing your technique.

Applies to: Ski Technique Command Camp, Ski Technique Edge Up Camp, Ski Technique Performance Program

Do I need my own skis?

No. You can rent equipment locally and we are happy to recommend shops. Well-fitted boots make the biggest difference.

Applies to: Ski Technique Command Camp, Ski Technique Edge Up Camp

Do I need avalanche equipment?Answer varies by trip

Ski Technique Command Camp

No. This is a technique camp in the ski resort, not a freeride course.

Ski Technique Edge Up Camp

No. This camp stays on groomed pistes.

Ski Technique Performance Program

No. This is a technique program, not a freeride course. Level 4 may use side-piste for bumps and deep snow, but no avalanche equipment is needed.

Is Level 2 my level?

You are comfortable on blue runs and want real parallel turns and the step to red. If you are still unsure on blues, ask us about Level 1. If you already ski parallel on reds, the Level 3 Command camp is for you.

Applies to: Ski Technique Edge Up Camp

Which level should I pick?

Go by what you can ski comfortably today, not by what you hope to ski. If you feel in between, or your confidence sits higher or lower than your actual skills, tell us in your enquiry and we will recommend the right level.

Applies to: Ski Technique Performance Program

Where does it run?

Anywhere in the Alps. Salzburger Land in Austria and the Jungfrau Region in Switzerland are our preferred areas, but tell us where you want to ski and we will make it work.

Applies to: Ski Technique Performance Program

How does the price work?

Coaching starts from €550 per day. The final price depends on the number of days, group size and level, and we confirm it with you before anything is booked.

Applies to: Ski Technique Performance Program

I have never stood on skis. Can I join Level 1?

We recommend at least two days on skis before Level 1. If you cross-country ski or ice skate well, talk to us and we will consider it.

Applies to: Ski Technique Performance Program

Explore Backcountry

5 questions
How fit do I need to be?

Fit enough for five touring days in a row with 800 to 1,400m of ascent a day, and still able to ski well on the way down. If you tour regularly in the Alps at that level, you are ready.

Applies to: The Svaneti Skyline

How much touring experience do I need?

This is not a first touring trip. You should have toured before, be confident with kick turns and transitions, and ride variable off-piste snow in control. If you have never toured, start with our Intro to Ski Touring & Splitboarding.

Applies to: The Svaneti Skyline

Is the programme fixed?

No. The first ski day is at Tetnuldi. After that the guide plans day by day and picks the best tour for the weather, the snow and the group.

Applies to: The Svaneti Skyline

How do I get there?

Fly to Kutaisi (KUT). The shared transfer to Mestia is included and takes around five hours by road. Flights are not included.

Applies to: The Svaneti Skyline

Can splitboarders join?

Yes. Splitboarders are welcome, with the same fitness and experience requirements.

Applies to: The Svaneti Skyline

Technique Master-Class

12 questions
What skiing or snowboarding level do I need?

You should be comfortable on black pistes, controlling your speed and linking turns. The course is aimed at freeride levels F1 to F2, from confident piste riders new to off-piste to riders looking for more control in powder and variable snow. No touring experience is required.

Applies to: Improve Your Off-Piste Riding

How long is the course and what will I learn?

The course includes five coaching days. You work on powder technique, control in variable snow and terrain choices, with daily video analysis and feedback on your riding.

Applies to: Improve Your Off-Piste Riding

How big is the group?

The group has a maximum of six riders, with coaching tailored to your level.

Applies to: Improve Your Off-Piste Riding

Is accommodation included in the course price?

No. Accommodation, ski passes, equipment rental, travel, insurance, food and drinks are not included. Basic shared accommodation can be arranged for the group, or you can arrange your own.

Applies to: Improve Your Off-Piste Riding

Is this a ski touring or avalanche training course?

This course focuses on off-piste skiing and snowboarding technique. Touring experience is not required, and avalanche training is not part of the course.

Applies to: Improve Your Off-Piste Riding

Is Performance Prep right for my level?

If you ride red pistes comfortably and some black, yes. It is a performance camp, not a learn-to-ski course, and you need the legs for 4 to 6 hours of riding a day. Not sure where you sit? Read our guide to rider levels or just ask us.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

I'm eyeing a freeride or touring trip this winter. Does this help?

That is exactly what it is for. Your coaches watch you ride for three days, then tell you straight which Snowbusters freeride or touring trip fits you and what to work on before you go. Cheaper than finding out in a couloir.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

Can snowboarders join?

Yes, for the full coaching and video programme. The demo gear is skis only for now; we are working on adding snowboard demos.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

Where exactly is the camp?

We plan to ride in Kaprun, Austria. If there is enough snow, the camp may move to Hinterglemm. The exact spot depends on the snow.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

What is included, and what is not?

Three days of on-snow coaching with two coaches, video analysis, evening sessions, a personal technique report and season blueprint, and the DOWN SKIS demo. Accommodation, meals, ski pass, transport and insurance are not included. We arrange accommodation for you unless we agree otherwise.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

Do I need avalanche equipment?

No. We ride lift-access terrain: groomers plus moguls and broken snow beside the piste. No off-piste or avalanche terrain. A helmet is mandatory.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

What if not enough people sign up?

The camp runs with a minimum of 3 participants. If we do not reach it, we offer you a different trip or course of the same or higher value, or a full refund.

Applies to: Performance Prep: Downski Edition

Still wondering?

Ask the riders

Did not find your answer? Tell us about your skiing or snowboarding and we will get back to you.