Skiing Prices - How Much Does it Cost to Go Skiing

Have you thought about going skiing this year, but don't know how much it will cost? There are a number of factors that come into play when calculating costs. Here are a few variables that will dictate how much you will spend. How far are you traveling? This seems like a no-brainer, but people often overlook the cost of traveling to get to the ski resort. For example, it may be just as cost effective for fly to Utah than drive from Florida to Vermont. Southwest Airlines often has great west coast flight tickets. You also may choose to ski at a resort no more than a few hours from you. All these costs are variable.

- Will you be staying overnight? In addition to lodging costs. If so, sometimes resorts offer a ski free or reduced lift ticket package when you stay at one of their properties. This isn't always true, and sometimes you end up paying just as if you stayed elsewhere because they may be inflating prices to cover that "free" ticket.

- How long are you skiing for? Sometimes it is more economical to get a season pass, especially if you live within driving distance of a ski resort. When my wife was learning a few years back, I wanted to try and get on our local mountain at least once/week so she could catch on faster. It worked, and we ended up saving by getting the mid-week season pass.

So how much will just the skiing part cost.  Again, these prices are variable as well.  Here are a few tips and ideas.

- Ski resort lift ticket prices vary, but there are a few ways to save.  Some resorts offer special prices for mid-week skiers.  They also may offer discounted night skiing tickets.  This is especially true for resorts that are known as "commuter" resorts.  They are attempting to attract locals who work during the day and want to ski during the week.

Also, smaller resorts charge much less than the larger destination-type ski resorts.  Larger resorts also often do not offer mid-week pricing.  For example, you may pay $45 for an all day pass at your local mountain, but pay $100+ at a Colorado destination-resort.  Some resorts also change prices daily, and you have to check with them for "todays" rate.

- Do you have your own ski equipment?  Having your own equipment will save on average between $30-$45/day.   If you plan on making skiing something you will do more than a few times each year, then investing in ski equipment is a good idea.

Ways to Reduce Cost

- Ski mid-week to get lowest prices. 

- Ask if there are any discounts or specials available right now.  Sometimes area merchants offer tickets at lower prices, or may offer free tickets.  For example, in 2010, Snowshoe Mountain, WV had a buy one, get one free deal with Coca-Cola and Kroger Supermarkets.  You would buy 4-12 packs of Coke, and get a voucher for a buy-one, get-one free lift ticket.  Not a bad way to save $79!

- Ski late season, or early season.  Late/Early season skiing often has prices that are reduced as much as 50%.  Typically, late season is a better bet for skiing since the snowpack is usually still built up.  Usually early season terrain is still limited because there isn't enough snow on the slopes yet.  I have seen early season skiing be better than late, and late season better than early.  It all depends on the weather.

- If you must rent, check prices at local shops near the mountain. Sometimes you can save on average about 10%-20% versus renting on the mountain.  However, you also will be responsible for transporting your skis to the slopes, and if there is a problem, you simply cannot walk into the resort rental shop for a replacement.  Sometimes the extra cost is worth the convenience.

- Buy your gear in the off season.  Late spring and early summer is a great time to buy coats, shirts, skis, boots, helmets at discounted prices. Last year, a ski shop was selling $300 jackets as buy one, get one free. 

- Buy used gear.  I have purchased used ski equipment before, and probably will again.  In fact, I ski on a set of used Volkl 163's now. This is especially a good idea for smaller children who will outgrow their equipment, sometimes in just one year.  If you are reluctant to buy used boots, then get new ones. 

- Pack a Lunch.  Sometimes a typical resort meal (burger, fries, and drink) can cost about $15.  I paid that much last year at a resort.  When you have a family of 4-5 people and have to eat at least 2 times/day, this can add up fast!  Just be aware that some resorts do not allow you to "brown bag" in their cafeteria areas, and don't be surprised if they ask you to leave.