September 9, 2024
Top 10 Ways to Level Up Your Ski Holiday
A ski or winter holiday can be one of the most exhilarating experiences of the year, but with the right planning, it can go from just good to truly extraordinary. Whether you’re an avid skier or a snow-loving beginner, these 10 strategies will ensure you get the best value, maximum fun, and unforgettable memories. From discounts and deals to secret insider tips, here’s how to level up your winter getaway.
1. Grab Early Bird Discounts on Ski Passes
If you know where and when you’ll be skiing, it pays to book your ski passes in advance. Many resorts offer early bird discounts that can save you up to 50% compared to buying them at the resort on the day of. Some passes even bundle lift access with discounts on rentals, lessons, and dining.
Tip: If you plan to visit multiple resorts, consider multi-resort passes like the Ikon Pass or Epic Pass for even greater savings.
2. Shop Off-Season for Ski Gear
Ski gear can be expensive, but there’s no reason to pay full price. If you plan ahead, shop for ski gear during off-seasons (spring and summer) when retailers clear out inventory at a fraction of the cost.
Bonus: Keep an eye out for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday sales—many online stores offer steep discounts on ski jackets, helmets, and other essentials.
Pro Tip: You can also buy second-hand ski gear on sites like: Slope Off London, Who Ski and Eco Ski.
3. Attend Winter Festivals & Events
Many ski resorts are more than just about skiing—they’re packed with vibrant festivals and events. From music festivals to snow sculpture contests and nighttime skiing, these events offer a great way to experience the resort’s culture.
For example, Snowboxx in Avoriaz, France, combines skiing with live music and après-ski parties. Checking out resort calendars for these unique events can turn your ski trip into an unforgettable winter festival experience.
4. Book Your Transfers in Advance
One of the easiest ways to save money and hassle is by booking your airport transfers ahead of time. Last-minute bookings can be expensive and leave you scrambling for options, while early bookings often come with significant discounts. Private transfers offer comfort and flexibility but at a fraction of the cost if booked early. Secure your private airport transfer with an £100GBP deposit!
Plus, you’ll avoid stress knowing you’ve secured reliable transport to and from your resort.
5. Stay During the Week to Save Big
Weekend stays are always more expensive, as most people want to hit the slopes on their days off. Resorts fill up, and prices skyrocket. However, if you have the flexibility, traveling mid-week can save you hundreds on accommodation and lift passes. Resorts are quieter, lines are shorter, and you’ll get more skiing done.
Pro Tip: Consider booking your trip from Tuesday to Thursday for the best deals and the quietest slopes
6. Take Advantage of Ski-In/Ski-Out Accommodations
While ski-in/ski-out accommodations may seem like a luxury, they can actually save you time and money. You’ll skip the hassle of transport to the slopes, avoid parking fees, and maximize your skiing time. Not only does this add to the convenience factor, but it’s also ideal for families with kids who need frequent breaks or if you’re just looking to maximize relaxation time.
7. Apres-Ski: Don’t Miss the Fun
No ski holiday is complete without indulging in some après-ski fun. From cozy mountain bars with live music to lively dance parties, après-ski is where skiers unwind and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Popular spots like St. Anton’s MooserWirt or Courchevel’s Le Tremplin offer everything from mulled wine to champagne and DJ sets.
Make sure to carve out some time each evening to join in the festivities, as it’s part of the full ski holiday experience.
8. Plan for the Weather
Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so packing smart is crucial. Always bring layers, waterproof gear, and extra gloves. If you’re traveling with kids, ensure they have thermal layers to keep warm during lessons or playtime in the snow.
Check the forecast for your resort before departure and plan accordingly. Whether it’s extra sunny and you need sunblock or it’s snowy and a pair of extra goggles are in order, a little preparation can make or break your day on the slopes.
9. Family Fun: Kid-Friendly Resorts & Events
If you’re traveling with kids, choose resorts that cater to families. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, ski schools, and special snow activities like tobogganing, snowshoeing, or ice skating. Look for family-friendly events like Christmas markets, Santa meet-and-greets, and sledding competitions.
Consider resorts like La Plagne in France, which has dedicated ski areas for children.
10. Look for Last-Minute Deals
While early bookings save you money on ski passes and accommodations, last-minute deals can sometimes offer massive discounts on accommodation. Websites like Lastminute.com or Ski.com specialize in these last-minute offerings, where you could snag a luxury chalet at a heavily reduced price. This strategy works best for those with flexible travel dates.
Pro Tip: Set up alerts for last-minute deals at your favourite resorts so you’ll be the first to know about a price drop.
