What great beaches are to summer, ski runs are to winter. And there are few more exhilarating ways to spend your winter than by blitzing down a snow capped mountain in the trail of off-the-beaten-path powder hounds! But while ski holidays are indeed active and adventurous, and often thought of as a sport for the rich and elite, they don’t have to break the bank.

Going skiing this year? Then follow these tips to save some money while still having a great time. There are loads of ways you can save cash, and here is a mix of the best.

Go at the Right Time

For a cheaper trip, go skiing outside of the high season and you will always get better deals on accommodation, food, skiing, and more. The start or end of the season are good times to go, but just ensure you avoid the holiday season, just after New Year, other important holidays, and around spring break.

For a shorter trip, avoid the weekends. If you go during the week, you may find prices are lower and you may also be able to get better deals on lift tickets.

To save even more money, always be on the lookout for deals for everything from meals out to accommodation, and always compare things online to find the best rates.

Ski Locally

When it comes to skiing, you don’t necessarily have to travel to a far off and exotic land to enjoy a snow vacation. Most countries now have fantastic options for slopes, and even Arabic countries in the middle of the desert like Dubai have indoor snow fields, giving residents and tourists alike options for a more affordable, local escape.

If you live in France, for instance, you have options like La Rosière, the Three Valleys, the Portes du Soleil, and the newly created Paradiski Area which links La Plagne and Les Arcs with the Espace San Bernardo. Skiing in Meribel should also be on your list. If you live in Australia you have Perisher Blue.

Choose Long-Term Rentals

Renting your own accommodation rather than staying in a hotel is a great option if you want to save some cash. Research the options available at your chosen resort.

There is no need to spend lots of money on a hotel when you can get the same level of luxury for less, and you will enjoy greater independence. You can also save even more money by cooking your own food in your accommodation rather than eating out.

Borrow All the Equipment You Can

If you are a regular, this won’t apply so much because you will probably have your own gear already. But if this is your first time, or you don’t have all the gear, try to borrow what you can rather than buying it, because it can be expensive to buy all your travel equipment at once.

Renting is another option, but this is clearly another expense that you can save on by borrowing.

Go in a Group

If you go skiing in a group, you may find that there are many savings to be made.

You can share the cost of accommodation, for example, and you may find that large groups are often given discounts on lessons, lift tickets, and more.

Plan in Advance

The longer you give yourself to plan, the better, so start planning your ski holiday months in advance. Choosing your resort, finding your accommodation, and booking your transport are often cheaper if you start early, and it gives you more time to compare prices and deals.

You may find that other expenses such as airport parking are also cheaper.

Drive to the Resort

Getting to the resort can often be expensive, so save some more money by driving there. It may not be possible, but give it a go if it is.

Plan it carefully and find out whether it is the cheaper option, then go for it if you find you can save some money this way. Even if the journey is long, the trip there can be part of the adventure.