According to the IRS, the average tax refund for 2023 is $2,878*, which is a nice chunk of change to put towards an unforgettable ski trip in 2023-24 or even this summer in South America. We know you have many choices when it comes to deciding what you’ll do with your tax return, but as skiers and snowboarders, we also know that there are things only a trip to the mountains can provide. Sure, you might want to buy a new lawn mower or a home entertainment system, but we think spending your tax refund on a ski vacation is a savvy choice. Here’s why:

1. You can get the first pick of accommodations and discounts

If you were to book your ski vacation as soon as you received your tax return, you’re almost guaranteed to have the first pick of accommodations and early-bird discounts! Now is also prime time to cop your Epic or Ikon Pass since prices will only go up as the 23-24 season approaches. If you’re hesitant to book your ski vacation far in advance, check out our list of resorts that receive abundant annual snowfall here.

2.  You can make your U.S. dollars go even further in Canada

tax refund, ski trip
Photo: Whistler Blackcomb

Thanks to favorable exchange rates, U.S. skiers and snowboarders can save a bundle on a ski trip to Canada. Currently, exchange rates in Canada for U.S. travelers are particularly favorable, so the time has never been better. Lock in your trip up north by using your tax refund now to lock in these money-saving prices.

3. You’re investing in memories

tax refund, ski trip
Photo: Paul Morrison/Whistler Blackcomb

This year, invest in an experience that you’ll remember for years to come. A big part of the allure of skiing or riding is the experiential element and spectacular mountain vistas it provides. In 30 years, you won’t remember that state-of-the-art gadget you bought, but you will have awesome photos, quality time with friends and family, and the sentimental stories from your ski trip(s).

4. You can finally make a South America ski vacation happen

tax refund, ski trip
Photo: Valle Nevado

In perfect timing with tax season, now is a great time to book your summer ski vacation in South America. The ski season in the Andes typically starts in July, but booking your ski trip down south now when there’s plenty of availability ensures you get first dibs on popular accommodations, like Hotel Portillo at Portillo, Chile or Hotel Valle Nevado at Valle Nevado, Chile.

5. You can upgrade your ski vacation

Putting your extra cash towards ski-vacation upgrades is a nice way to enhance your typical ski-vacation experience. For example, if you’re thinking about a trip to Whistler, Revelstoke, Telluride, Jackson Hole or Alyeska next season, add a day or two of heli-skiing to your vacation. Here are some other ways to upgrade your ski vacation:

  • Add a star to your accommodations
  • Sign up for a lesson or clinic to fine-tune your on-snow skills
  • Splurge on dinner at a world-class restaurant
  • Treat yourself to a spa day
  • Enjoy awesome activities, like cat skiing, dog sledding, sleigh-ride dinners, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or cross-country skiing

*The average tax refund is based on an IRS report published on April 7, 2023. 

Put some “fun” in your tax refund and spend it on a ski vacation. Our Mountain Travel Experts are standing by at 800-610-8911 or you can get started by filling out a form for a free custom quote.