Family Ski Vacations

• Driving often proves more economical for families, particularly if you're using your own vehicle. This option offers the flexibility to pack more luggage, including your favorite snacks and drinks, potentially saving on resort prices. However, remember to factor in gas costs, potential wear and tear on your car, and resort parking fees. Crucially, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with appropriate snow tires, all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), or carry chains if required by local regulations.
• Flying offers a faster solution for covering long distances and can significantly reduce travel stress, especially if you're uncomfortable driving in winter conditions. On the flip side, you'll need to account for airfare, which can be a substantial expense for a family, as well as additional baggage fees for ski equipment and the cost of airport transfers to your resort.

Utilizing Resort & Regional Transit:

• On-Site Shuttles: Take advantage of free or low-cost resort shuttles connecting lodging, parking, and town centers, potentially eliminating the need for a rental car upon arrival.
• Inter-Resort Buses: Explore public bus systems that connect multiple resorts and towns in a region (e.g., Utah's Cottonwood Canyons), sometimes even offering free passes.

Smart Airport Transfers:

• Shared Shuttles & Buses: Opt for shared-ride shuttles or dedicated airport bus services from major regional airports to your resort for a more affordable option than taxis or private transfers.

• Assess the Need: You might save a lot by skipping a rental car if your lodging offers a shuttle and you plan to stay primarily at the resort.
• Equip for Winter: If you do rent, prioritize vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Always check local regulations about tire chains, especially for mountain passes.
• Book Ahead: Secure better rates and ensure availability by renting your car, especially a specialized winter vehicle, well in advance.

• Plan & Stock Up Smart: Plan your meals and grocery list in advance. Consider bringing non-perishable staples from home, and upon arrival, visit a local supermarket outside the resort village for better prices.
• Easy Mountain Meals: Prepare breakfasts and dinners at your lodging, like crockpot meals or pasta. Pack lunches (sandwiches, fruit, granola bars) and stash them in a locker or backpack to avoid expensive lodge food. Don't forget reusable water bottles for hydration!

• Save on Food Costs: Pack your own pocket snacks like granola bars and fruit snacks for quick energy on the slopes, especially with kids. Utilize lodge "brown bag" areas for packed lunches to avoid buying expensive on-mountain food.
• Dine Smart: If eating out, look for happy hour specials for après-ski savings or consider takeout/delivery from local restaurants. Don't forget to use kids' menus or share adult entrees for older kids and lighter eaters.

• Self-Serve Online: Book your package online to find the best deals.
• Connect with an Expert: Have questions about planning your dream ski trip? Get free assistance by contacting a Mountain Travel Expert! You can reach them via phone, chat, or our Trip Planning form. Your dedicated Expert will help you bundle everything from airfare and car rentals to gear, ensuring you find the best accommodations for your family size. They'll make sure you avoid properties with awkward bed configurations or inconvenient locations far from the slopes. Talk with an Expert who knows the ins and outs of over 120 ski resorts worldwide to guarantee an enjoyable vacation.
• Customized Options: Answer a few questions about your preferences, and the Expert will create tailored options including lodging, lift tickets, rentals, and more.
• Review, Book & Enjoy: Review and modify the proposed itinerary, confirm and book your trip, and have your Mountain Travel Expert available for support before, during, and after your ski vacation.

Booking your ski trip in advance and working with a Mountain Travel Expert will help you stay within your budget. To get the best rates, we recommend avoiding single-day lift tickets and popular times like Christmas, New Year's, Presidents' Day Weekend, and Spring Break. Renting accommodations with a kitchen can help save on dining costs, and staying a bit further from the resort while using a shuttle or rental car can also reduce expenses. Check out more information on the budget-friendly ski vacations page.

Many factors influence the cost of a ski vacation, such as the time of year, travel distance, accommodations, whether you rent or bring your gear, trip length, and dining choices. Fortunately, our Mountain Travel Experts can help you plan your dream ski vacation while keeping your budget in mind. Check out more information on budget-friendly ski vacations.