For some of us, there’s no better adventure than a ski trip to the mountains. The scenery, the slopes, the après…
However, the excitement of hitting the ski resorts often comes with a price tag that can be a bit of a bummer.
Fear not! With a little know-how and planning, you can enjoy the peaks without breaking the bank. In this guide, we'll explore the top 9 ways to save on your next ski vacation, ensuring that you spend more time enjoying the snow and less time worrying about costs.
1. An Epic Way to Save: Ski Pass
Let’s start with the basics. The first and foremost tip for a budget-friendly ski trip: Get a pass. Even if you’re just going for a few days, having the right pass can help save big bucks at all Vail Resorts owned and operated resorts. The right pass can offer you access to resorts around the world—at a fraction of the cost of daily lift tickets.
There are many options to choose from, at several price points, offering varying levels of access to multiple Vail Resorts owned and operated resorts. Depending on your selection, the Epic Pass gives you access to some of the best resorts in North America: Vail, Heavenly, Whistler Blackcomb, and over 40 resorts coast to coast and around the world.
The Epic Pass: Ski or ride, with the ultimate all-season pass, with unlimited access and no restrictions.
- Unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail, Breck, Park City, Whistler Blackcomb and more.
- Limited access to partner resorts in North America, like Telluride & Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, as well as Europe and Japan.
- Free summer lift and gondola access to the same resorts included with your Pass during winter.
- Includes Epic Mountain Rewards – 20% of food, lodging, group lessons, rentals and more.
- Refunds for job loss, injury, illness & more with Epic Coverage.
- Plus, the earlier you buy, the more savings and most benefits you get; like discounted tickets for friends & family.
The Epic Local Pass: Ski or ride like a local, no matter where you live, the Local Pass offers access to all your favorite resorts with limited restrictions.
- Ski and ride Vail, Breck, Park City and more
- 10 combined days of access to Vail, Beaver Creek and Whistler Blackcomb, excluding restricted peak dates
- Limited access to partner resorts in Japan.
- Free summer lift and gondola access to the same resorts included with your Pass during winter.
- Includes Epic Mountain Rewards – 20% off food, lodging, group lessons, rentals and more.
- Refunds for job loss, injury, illness & more with Epic Coverage.
- Plus, the earlier you buy, the more savings and most benefits you get; like discounted tickets for friends & family.
The Epic Day Pass: Choose from 1 – 7 days that you can use when you want, throughout the season.
- Choose from 1 – 7 days and visit throughout the season.
- Choose access to a group of 22, 32 or all 38 owned and operated North American and European resorts.
- Access to Telluride and Resorts of the Canadian Rockies on select Epic Day Passes (4-7 day Epic Day Passes in the 38-resort tier only).
- 20% off food, lodging, group lessons, rentals & more with Epic Mountain Rewards.
- Refunds for job loss, injury, illness & more with Epic Coverage.
PRO TIP: Purchase early for the best price and benefits. Prices tend to rise as the season approaches.
2. Be Ready & Save with Package Deals
Didn't purchase an Epic Pass? There are still ways to save with bundling lodging, lift tickets and other amenities.
3. Book Lodging Early and Save Big
Accommodations can be one of the biggest expenses of any ski trip. Plan early to snag the best deals. Many resorts, including Vail Resorts, offer early bird specials that can significantly reduce the cost of your stay. Plus, with Epic Mountain Rewards, you can enjoy 20% off lodging, adding even more value to your ski getaway.
4. Share and Save: The More the Merrier
Consider sharing lodging with friends or family to split costs. Sometimes you will find not only savings, but better amenities in a larger, more expensive space that houses more people. You’ll find additional savings if the place has a kitchen.
5. Renting Gear: Smart Moves for Short Stays
For short ski vacations, especially ones that require a flight, renting equipment at the destination can be more cost-effective and convenient than traveling with your gear. Not only does it save you from extra baggage fees and the hassle of carrying equipment, but it also allows you to try the latest models and find the best setup for your skills and the current conditions. And remember, Pass Holders get 20% off rentals with Epic Mountain Rewards.
PRO TIP: If your luggage situation allows, bring your own boots. This is especially important if you have boots that fit well.
6. Look for Off-Peak Discounts
You can often find discounts and better package deals when you book during non-peak and non-holiday periods. You’ll also find that there will be fewer crowds. Consider planning your ski trip for mid-week stays, allowing you to maximize your savings while enjoying quieter slopes.
7. Use Public Transport
There is usually no need for a vehicle at most resorts—you’ll be skiing most of the day, and most amenities will be within walking distance or resort shuttle. Save on gas, parking, and rental car fees by using airport and resort shuttles, and public transportation. And for anyone visiting Vail, Breck, Keystone, or Beaver Creek, consider utilizing the Epic Mountain Express for convenient and reliable transportation. Pass Holders save 20% by entering their Epic Pass number at check out.
8. Stay in touch with Snow.com
Sign up for emails and alerts from your favorite resorts for the latest deals. Check out Snow.com to get on their email list—a perfect way to keep in touch with what’s going on in the mountains all year long.
Ski Smart and Save Big
In short: a ski trip doesn’t have to break the bank to make it the best ski trip ever. A little bit of forethought, creative thinking, and research can pay dividends. So snag an Epic Pass, book early, explore rentals—and you’ll be all set to hit the slopes without sending chills through your bank account.