Save Money on Your Skiing Holiday

Mount Blanc, French Alps.
Mount Blanc, French Alps.

While skiing holidays scan be extremely relaxing, such an excursion can also cost a great deal of money. Such expenditures can take away from the overall experience and even result in added stress. This is the reason that it is important to take a look at a handful of tips, which will allow any holiday to be both fun and economical.

Online Reservations

Some of the best resorts located in France, Italy, Switzerland and Austria offer truly impeccable living conditions. However, these amenities are often attached to a hefty price tag. This is the primary reason why it is always wise to reserve any such holiday at least six weeks in advance of the intended departure date. In fact, it is not uncommon for rental fees to be reduced by ten per cent or more when using this strategy.

Advanced Parking

Long-term parking fees are another considerable concern. Analysts have found that booking a spot only twenty-four hours before leaving can save up to fifty per cent in normal costs. As it is likely that a holiday will last anywhere between a few days and a few weeks, such savings can drastically add up within a short period of time.

Shopping as Opposed to Dining Out

It is no secret that the best resorts are also associated with fine dining and luxurious restaurants. Of course, there is nothing wrong with eating out once or twice. Nonetheless, this practice can quickly deplete what may very well be a limited budget. One of the most efficient cost-cutting alternatives to this scenario is to visit the local supermarket and eat in during the majority of the holiday. This is an even greater advantage when one rents a self-catering property or a chalet with a fully equipped kitchen.

Avoiding the Tourist Season

The law of supply and demand dictates that the cost of any holiday will rise during the busiest times of the year. When possible, it is wise to opt for dates which fall outside of these seasons. As resorts are seeking to keep a high occupancy rate, they are more likely to offer a greater pricing flexibility. Also, let us never forget that an overcrowded resort can be stressful and noisy.

Equipment

Although the professional skier will have his or her own equipment, novices or those on holiday will likely need to rent items such as skis, gloves, goggles and outerwear. Avoid renting this equipment at a resort; the prices are exorbitantly high. Once again, it is recommended to find a dealer while still at home. The costs will generally be much cheaper and it is not uncommon to enjoy a larger selection of items.

These are only a few of the best money-saving tips which will help to stretch a limited budget. With a bit of foresight and by remembering to prepare in advance, any such ski holiday can be fun and exciting without placing additional stress on one’s finances.