I could have been seriously hurt. There are universal rules when skiing and snowboarding, applicable to everyone, worldwide. Commonly known as the Alpine Responsibility Code, it is endorsed and used by most ski areas around the world with slight variations. Ultimately, it's about using some common sense and personal awareness to reduce elements of risk.

Here's our packing list for what and how to pack for your next snowboarding holiday along with some packing tips. You can totally use it as a ski trip packing list too, just swap out the snowboard gear for ski gear!

Use these 5 essential tips to learn anything on a snowboard. Progress your riding, challenge and change your mindset and put you miles ahead in the learning game.

Join The Snow Chasers Community - a global group of skiers and snowboarders who share tips, advice and travel deals.

There's no other experience quite like it. I love hearing stories of someones first time skiing, mainly because they are funny but also because they end with a sense of achievement. Here are some stories from around the world of that very memorable first time including mine.