How to Save Money on Your Ski Holiday

Save money on your next family ski vacation!

The depressed economy has kept many families from going on their usual winter ski vacations, although this doesn't have to be the case. There are a ton of ways to save money on every aspect of your trip if you are willing to search for great deals. Below are some helpful tips to help you reduce the costs of your family vacation this year.

Transportation

While flying is often a much faster mode of transportation, driving or taking a train are much cheaper. This is especially true for families. Not only can you save money on gas, but this money can be used to purchase snacks along the way, saving money by avoiding pricey restaurant stops. Also, if you plan to bring a lot of luggage, including any ski gear, driving or taking a train can help you save money that would be spent on checking extra baggage on a plane.

Hotels and Lodging

Hotels are often one of the most expensive parts of a family vacation. This is because people tend to book rooms from names they recognize from large chains. However, there are many other, less expensive options that include bed and breakfasts, condos and motels. While these may not include all of the same amenities as the larger chains, they will provide a nice place to rest after a long day of skiing. We enjoy this Vail lodging portal.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is going to help you cut costs in a number of ways. Many airlines or rail stations will provide a discount for people who book their trip in advance. This also includes planning ahead for peak travel times and avoiding the times of year which are most popular. Hotels and other lodging businesses will also usually offer a lower rate for those who book in advance. Shopping around is the best way to get the lowest prices available for your vacation.

Pack a Lunch

Another thing that many travelers do not consider is the high cost of food while traveling. While it is enjoyable to experience the local flavor at restaurants, this can add up quickly. It is a good idea to do some grocery shopping for your trip and take packed lunches when you go skiing. This will help you save a tremendous amount of money by avoiding the overpriced mountaintop restaurants. You can also purchase snacks for your hotel room and save money that way.

Ski Passes

Aside from transportation and lodging, ski resorts also have their own ways to help you save money. Vail's Epic Pass costs $649 and allows you to ski as much as you want whenever you want. This is a huge savings opportunity when you consider that the 7-day pass is $499. Other ski resorts have similar offers as well. These passes are an incentive for those who plan to stay for longer than a week. If you are a ski enthusiast, this is definitely the way to go. Some resorts also offer childcare for free, so this is definitely something to consider if you are traveling with your family.