With the winter season upon us, now is the perfect time to escape the doldrums of home with a holiday abroad. Skiing can be the perfect escape, but you may be wondering how you can afford such a trip so soon after Christmas. Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can cut the costs, without sacrificing the experience.
Booking at the Right Time
Most ski resorts in Europe open at the end of November and close in mid-to-late April. By far the most popular time to visit is during the holidays when prices can almost double. You’ll also find a lot of parents taking their kids along in February, as this coincides with the half-term. The cheapest times to book tend to be before the Christmas period or from the middle of January till the middle of February.
Take Advantage of Group Deals
When researching your trip, you might notice that a lot of tour providers and resorts actually offer various deals for those traveling in large groups. This typically includes those traveling with eight or more friends. Make sure to check each resort’s terms and conditions to see how they handle big bookings. You’ll often find discounted rates on activities, and some may even offer discounts on accommodation or inclusive packages as well.
Choosing the Right Resort
The French and Swiss Alps are by far the most popular destinations, but they can also command a hefty premium. If you’re looking to save cash. Why not consider heading out to eastern European mountain resorts in Bulgaria, Slovenia, or Romania instead. These still offer a number of great locations, but without the big crowds. Websites like Igluski offer a helpful breakdown of each resort, including their prices.
Choosing Self-Catered Accommodation
Finally, choosing to stay in self-catered accommodation could end up saving you a significant amount over the course of your trip. This is typically much cheaper than all-inclusive packages, even when you factor in buying food. Unfortunately, many travelers can’t stand the idea of having to cook while on vacation. If you’re traveling in a group, though, you can share the responsibility to take some of the load off.
Many veterans on the slopes will be aware of these tricks of the trade. For first-timers, though, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and end up paying more than you need to. Keep these tips in mind when it’s time to book your first trip.
Florence C says
Great tips for for those who enjoy the sport. I have tried it years ago and was not good at it. When the opportunity arises I go and enjoy the family having fun.
Janet M says
Great tips. Skiing can be very expensive.
Elizabeth Matthiesen says
I’m afraid that I’m really a non-winter person, I can’t ski nor skate. I’m glad that you posted these tips for those who do want to learn to ski, they will no doubt come in handy for them. 🙂
Diana Powell says
I used to go skiing all the time and haven’t been in ages but it’s a great sport but can get expensive. Great ideas for saving money .
Barbie S says
Fantastic tips and a great read. I use to Ski all the time when I was younger. This has reminded me how much fun it was and how much I miss it. May have to dig the old skis out.
Julie Z says
Really good tips – my mom is a travel agent and she always encourages us to travel in January-February because those are the cheapest times in winter to go pretty much anywhere! I’d take hubby on a ski trip…but there would have to be a great spa since I don’t ski lol – it terrifies me!
Brenda Witherspoon-Bedard says
really good tips – skiing can be so expensive for a family
Lynda Cook says
A great article, but not one for me as I do not go skiing, I would probably break every bone in my body..lol
kathy downey says
Great tips for for those who enjoy ski-ing i did many moons ago
nicolthepickle (Nicole Graham) says
These are good tips. Skiing can be so expensive, and I like it better in off-peak times anyways. Less busy.
angela eagle says
I always like tips on how to save money
Karen Beck says
I love tips on saving money and we love to travel but have never been to Europe. I’m not a skier but would love to go and watch!
JOANNE FRANK says
I am always open for ways to save money and we love to travel and ski.
jenny says
You shared some really good tips!
loucheryl says
I have never skied but I know I would love it. Reading you post makes me really want to give it a try. 🙂
Rhonda W G. says
I live so close to skiing areas but have never done so…Thanks for the tips.
Jana L. says
Lots of great tips. It always helps to plan ahead 🙂
Wanda Tracey says
I enjoyed this article and the great tips!!My two boys enjoy skiing very much!!
Soozle says
Self-catering saves sooo much money compared to AI! This is a great tip no matter where you travel!
LUZVIMINDA GUNTER-SMITH says
Self catering really assist us in preparation
Tara Gauthier says
These are some great tips for those who like to ski but count me out, much to my sons disappointment. I don’t mind going cross country but after trying downhill many years ago it is just not my thing!
Darren Scrubb says
Great tips that I will use for my next ski trip.