6 Budget Tips for Ski Holidays

As the economic downturn spreads gloom over bank accounts in Europe, take heart in these tips that can make ski breaks less expensive.

1. Romania is cheapest

Romania has some of the cheapest ski breaks, with a package trip in Poiana Brasov going from £200. Slovakia and Bulgaria are great places for people holding the euro as there are favorable exchange rates with the Koruna and Lev at present.

2. Fly the budget route

The price of flights can make up a large part of ski breaks, so cut these out by flying with one of the many low-cost airlines to Geneva rather than a smaller and more costly airport. From there, ski resorts like Megève or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are less than an hour’s drive away.

3. Plan the route ahead

When booking an airline it is essential to look at the cost of the road ahead. Will the hotel provide an airport transfer or is the resort reachable by public transport? There are trains to some resorts from Geneva Airport and ski buses.

4. Stay away from the piste

Not only will you get a better night’s sleep by staying away from the main towns in the resort, but you will save on currency too. There are transport options from the more far flung hotels which are well seasoned in getting ski fans on the slopes early.

5. Steer clear of package deals

Not only do they suck up time, but money. Hanging on for the missing people in a tour group can be a pain, but paying for the privilege when there is ski to be had? No thank you. Savings can be made by breaking trips down into smaller parts, choose the cheapest places to eat food and book affordable accommodation early online.

6. Time it right

Don’t go around Christmas, New Year or February half-term. The start and end of the ski season is best for in-pocket trips to the piste.

Photo of skiing in Chamonix, France, originally posted by moggsy

Topic:  Tips and Ideas | 2 Comments
Tags:  Alps, sport, winter

About the author

Sarah is a freelance writer who has contributed articles to the Bangkok Post and Untamed Travel. She is now writing for Cosmotourist online.