Ski or snowboard for free? You must think that there is some sort of catch with this idea, but ski and snowboard retailers will be trying out their latest equipment in the early season, giving skiers and snowboarders alike the opportunity to test it for them absolutely free.
The majority of manufacturers will pay for your flights, too, leaving you to just choose the chalet of your choice.
This offer is superb, as not only do skiers and snowboarders get to go on the slopes for significantly less than usual, but they also get to test out the very latest winter equipment.
The majority of winter retailers will also let you bring your family along, although you will have to pay for them.
This, however, gives you the option to make a family holiday out of the trip for much less than you would normally expect to pay.
Companies conduct these tests throughout resorts across Europe because it not only allows them to market their new goods but also to receive feedback from their target customers.
The tests for the 2013/14 season have already begun, but don't panic, as there are more testing events planned for the rest of the year.
Below are the dates and the resorts at which these tests will be taking place.
Saas Fee At Saas Fee in Switzerland, until the end of November, 13 of the top ski and 12 of the top snowboard manufacturers will be testing their latest equipment.
Based in the Allalin region of Saas Fee, people will be asked to test out the latest skis and snowboards of these companies on the slopes here, as well as in the region's snow park.
StAnton Between December 6th and 8th, the resort of St Anton in Austria will kick off the new winter season with its annual "Country Meets Snow" festival.
The festival is a mix of American music and ski testing, with 20 of the top winter manufacturers getting skiers and snowboarders to test their latest gear.
If this free testing was not enough, families will be able to enjoy an array of music from a range of Country Star Award nominees who will be entertaining the crowds.
Tignes Until December 22nd, the Ski and Board Camp at Tignes in France will be offering the public free testing of the newest ski and snowboarding equipment from all the best winter companies.
The camp is now in its seventh year and has leading manufacturers such as Head, Capita, Lib Tech, Rossignol and Scott all showcasing their latest equipment.
Skiers and boarders will be able to test the gear completely free of charge, so once you have booked up your chalet, make sure you take advantage of the chance to test out all the newest winter season equipment.