As spring arrives, avid skiers and snowboarders begin to shift their focus to the upcoming season. Now is the ideal time to start planning your ski trips for next year. Whether you’re an experienced skier seeking fresh adventures or a beginner excited to hit the slopes, taking the time to plan ahead can make your trips smoother, more exciting, and ultimately more memorable. From researching new resorts to budgeting for your winter getaway, there are several steps to take to ensure your ski season exceeds expectations. Visiting local ski shops for equipment check-ups or upgrades can help ensure you’re fully prepared for the upcoming season. Here’s how you can make the most of your winter travel plans.
Start Early: Researching Ski Resorts and Destinations
One of the most important steps in planning your ski trip is deciding on where to go. Every ski resort offers something unique, from challenging backcountry terrain to family-friendly slopes. Taking the time to research new resorts and destinations can make your ski vacation much more enjoyable and tailored to your preferences.
Types of Resorts to Consider
Traditional Ski Resorts: These are the well-known, large resorts with a wide variety of runs and extensive amenities. Famous resorts such as Aspen, Vail, Whistler, or Jackson Hole often cater to all skill levels and offer luxurious lodging, après-ski activities, and plenty of dining options.
Hidden Gems: If you’re looking for something a bit more unique and potentially less crowded, consider smaller, lesser-known resorts. These often offer affordable lodging, a relaxed atmosphere, and pristine slopes without the high price tag of popular destinations.
Backcountry Resorts: If you love the idea of skiing off the beaten path, backcountry resorts might be for you. These places often provide a more rugged experience with fewer crowds and more adventurous terrain, but they can require more advanced skills and sometimes specialized equipment.
Make sure the resort has runs suitable for your level, whether you’re a beginner or an expert looking for black diamond challenges. Consider how easy it is to get to the resort. Is it close to an airport? Do you need to rent a car, or can you rely on public transportation or resort shuttles? Does the resort offer lodging options within walking distance to the lifts? Are there off-slope amenities like spas, dining, or childcare?
Research the best time to visit. Many resorts open in late November and close by April, but some locations, especially in high-altitude regions, may have extended seasons. Check the snow conditions to see when the resort is likely to have its best coverage.
New Destinations to Explore
Keep an eye out for emerging ski destinations that may not be on every skier’s radar yet. These resorts often offer competitive prices and less crowded slopes. Research international destinations if you’re open to traveling abroad. Each of these offers unique experiences for avid skiers looking for a fresh adventure.
When and How to Secure Your Reservations
Once you’ve selected your ideal resort, the next step is to book your trip. Early planning can save you money and guarantee availability for lodging, ski passes, and lessons.
Lodging
Start booking your accommodations as soon as possible to ensure you get the best options. Many popular ski resorts fill up quickly, especially during peak times like the holidays and spring break. Consider your budget and preferences when choosing where to stay:
On-Site Lodging: Staying at or near the resort is the most convenient option for most skiers. Many resorts offer ski-in/ski-out accommodations, making it easy to get to the lifts.
Off-Site Lodging: If you’re looking to save money, consider staying in nearby towns or villages. Many offer shuttle services, so it’s easy to get to the slopes without paying for premium on-site lodging.
Ski Passes and Lift Tickets
Ski pass prices can vary significantly depending on the time of booking, so it’s wise to purchase your lift tickets early. Some ski resorts offer discounts for early bookings or multi-day passes, so be sure to check for those deals. Consider purchasing a season pass if you plan to ski multiple times during the season. If you’re planning on visiting multiple resorts, some ski passes give you access to multiple destinations.
Epic Pass / Ikon Pass: If you plan on skiing at several resorts that participate in either the Epic Pass or Ikon Pass programs, purchasing one of these all-access passes can save you money in the long run.
Discounts and Deals: Many resorts offer discounts on lift tickets for early booking, multi-day passes, or group reservations. Additionally, check for deals through travel websites or the resort’s own website.
Lessons and Rentals
If you’re new to skiing or planning on taking a lesson, booking early can ensure that you get the times and instructors you want. Group lessons, private lessons, or specialized ski clinics can fill up quickly, so consider reserving your spot in advance.
If you’re not bringing your own gear, booking ski rentals ahead of time can also save you time and ensure you get the equipment that fits you. Many resorts offer equipment packages for ski and snowboard rentals, which can help you save money.
Budgeting for Your Ski Trip
Planning a ski trip can be expensive, so it’s important to set a realistic budget and account for all the necessary expenses. Ski trips often involve costs that go beyond lift tickets and lodging. Here’s a breakdown of some common costs to consider and how to manage them.
Travel and Transportation Costs
Airfare: Look for flights early to find the best rates. If you’re flying to a major airport near your resort, consider flying during off-peak hours or days to save on ticket prices.
Car Rentals: If your resort is not easily accessible by public transport, renting a car might be necessary. Be sure to book early to get the best rates and check whether your resort offers shuttle services to and from the airport.
Accommodation Costs
The cost of lodging can vary significantly depending on the resort and the type of accommodation. Prices for ski-in/ski-out properties are typically higher, but there are options for more budget-friendly stays off-site. Consider sharing accommodations with friends or family to help reduce costs.
Food and Dining
Many resorts have on-mountain restaurants, but eating on the slopes can get expensive. To save money, plan to cook some meals in your accommodation. Some resorts also offer discounts or package deals for meals if you purchase them in advance.
Après-Ski Activities
While skiing is the main event, après-ski activities can be an important part of the experience. Plan a budget for fun off-the-slopes activities like dining, spa treatments, snowshoeing, or attending events. Some resorts also offer discounted activity passes when booked in advance.
Miscellaneous Costs
Ski Insurance: Travel insurance that covers ski-related injuries, lost equipment, or flight delays can be an important investment for peace of mind.
Gratuities: Don’t forget to account for tips for instructors, hotel staff, or shuttle drivers.
Stay Fit and Prepare Physically
The off-season is the perfect time to get into shape for skiing. A solid fitness routine focused on strength, flexibility, and cardio will help ensure that you are physically ready for the demands of skiing.
Strength Training: Focus on leg, core, and upper body strength. Squats, lunges, planks, and deadlifts are all effective exercises.
Cardio: Skiing requires great cardiovascular endurance. Running, cycling, and swimming are all great ways to improve your fitness level.
Flexibility: Incorporate stretching and mobility work into your routine. Yoga or Pilates can help improve flexibility and prevent injury.
Be Flexible and Plan for the Unexpected
While it’s important to plan your ski trips carefully, it’s also essential to be flexible. Weather conditions, snow coverage, and resort availability can change unexpectedly. Have a backup plan in place in case the conditions aren’t ideal for skiing or if you need to adjust your travel plans.
Conclusion
Planning your ski trips for next season is an exciting opportunity to ensure that your winter is filled with adventure, fun, and unforgettable experiences. By starting early, researching your resort options, booking accommodations, lift tickets, and ski rentals in advance, and budgeting for all the costs, you can make the most of your ski vacation. Additionally, staying physically fit during the off-season and remaining flexible with your plans will help you maximize your time on the slopes. With the right preparation, your next ski season will be your best one yet.
