Q What are the apres-ski costs in Val d'Isère? I have heard some horror stories quoting the equivalent of £8 for a beer. Do you really have to take a platinum credit card everywhere or are there really some reasonably priced places to have a few jars?
Roger Atkins

Konrad Bartelski replies: Funny how many people cross the Channel to buy wine and beer, yet as soon as you want to have a pint in a bar the prices rocket. It is true that Val D'Isère will be slightly more pricey than your local pub. However there are still reasonable and competitive places to drink. One very popular place is the Moris Pub where beers are €6 a pint. Or otherwise try the Bar de Sport, much quieter and slightly cheaper at €5. The nightclubs will sting you for a hefty amount (£8-£10 ) but that has always been the case in any holiday resort. The alcohol in the local supermarket, even up in the mountains, is good value compared to UK prices.

Q I am planning to join some friends at Beaver Creek on my first ski trip. Can I hire ski clothes or do I have to buy? And what should I be getting?
Dianne Goodburn

Konrad Bartelski replies: You are lucky to be going to Beaver Creek for your first ski holiday - they have a great school there, and will look after you really well. But it can be quite a daunting task getting kitted out for the first time, and you do need to be properly prepared.

The best way to keep warm is to wear many layers of clothes rather than one thick sweater. If it is cold, I would wear a normal long T-shirt and a pair of long johns, with a roll-neck shirt on top. Add a fleece sweatshirt on top. You may be able to source all these from your wardrobe at home.

Then, you will need a pair of salopettes and a jacket. You can hire a set from somewhere like Ski 47 (020-731 5415, 47degrees.com) or Ellis Brigham (0161-833 0746, ellis-brigham.com).

What you should buy, though, are the following:a pair or two of long ski socks, ski gloves and a warm hat to cover the ears. Also take with you a good pair of sunglasses. If it is snowing, you can always buy a pair of goggles once you arrive at the resort.

If you have any questions, write to Ask the experts, Guardian Travel, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER, or email ask.the.experts@ theguardian.com