With the ski season fast approaching there’s no time like the present to start planning your alpine getaway; but with so many things to consider, planning a ski trip can be an overwhelming experience to say the least - especially when it comes to travel arrangements.

Arranging your ski holiday doesn’t have to be stressful, so if busy airports and long check-in queues aren’t your thing you may wish to consider the altogether less-stressful option of a self drive ski holiday, an increasingly popular alternative to expensive air travel.

Driving your own vehicle through the beauty of the Alps is a fantastic experience which gives you the freedom to admire the stunning surroundings at your own pace. Travelling to your own schedule, with all of your luggage and equipment stored safely on board means you’re not subject to departure times or delays, nor are you exposed to potential excess luggage fees.

Travelling with children can be strain at the best of times, but the self drive option allows you to stock the car with all the games, books and movies they need to keep them amused for the duration of the journey.

If you’re heading for self-catered accommodation then a self drive ski holiday presents the perfect opportunity to stock up on snacks, wine and other essentials at hyper-markets along the way, meaning you avoid paying premium prices at shops within the resort.

Having your vehicle at your disposal while in the resort presents a great opportunity to snap on the snow-chains and go and explore some other close by resorts - perhaps something you may not have an opportunity to do without your own car. There’s also the added bonus of being able to visit near-by attractions and sights, meaning any non-skiers in your group can make the most of their holiday off the slopes. The medieval town at Annecy, the stunning glacial lake and the Mer de Glace in Chamonix are just a few sights that a self drive holiday could allow you to experience.

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of a self drive skiing holiday is the option to get an extra day skiing or boarding in. Why get up at the crack of dawn for an airport transfer when instead you can get up in your own time, pack the car then head up the mountain to enjoy some final runs.

All in all, a self drive skiing holiday offers flexibility, affordability and freedom, so what’s stopping you?