How to Book an Affordable, Unforgettable Ski Vacation in 5 Easy Steps
We get it. Skiing can be expensive. Lift tickets are sky-high, the resorts are crowded, and the price of accommodations can make you cringe. But what if we told you there’s a way to ski at impressive resorts, experience stunning slopes, and avoid draining your wallet? It’s not too good to be true—we’ve curated a list of hidden gem ski resorts that offer affordable prices without sacrificing quality. No compromises, no catch.
You might be thinking, “Sure, but are these small resorts? Is the snow unreliable?” The answer is NO! These resorts offer fantastic conditions, fewer crowds, and the best part: affordable prices. With our guide, you’ll be able to book your ski vacation and still have money left over for après-ski drinks.
SkiSaver's mission is to help you enjoy the thrill of skiing at incredible resorts, without the overwhelming costs. We believe everyone should have access to affordable ski trips, no matter where they live.
Hidden Gem v. Big Name
We share two ways to save on your next ski vacation:
A lesser-known ski destination that offers incredible value for skiers seeking affordable lift tickets and outstanding terrain. While you won’t commonly find a sweeping base village or bustling après-ski scene, these resorts provide a more laid-back, authentic experience. SkiSaver's Hidden Gem resorts feature vertical drops ranging from 1,800 to 2,800 feet, offering thrilling terrain for all levels of skiers. These resorts stand out for their beautiful, uncrowded slopes, diverse terrain, and a perfect balance of quality and cost. They offer a great opportunity to experience fantastic skiing without breaking the bank.
Unlock Big Name Resorts 🔓 🏔️
If you have your heart set on Big Name resorts like Vail or Jackson Hole, we’re here to help you make these iconic destinations more reachable. While these resorts are known for their breathtaking terrain and world-class amenities, their price tags can often be a barrier to enjoying the slopes. But don’t let that stop you from skiing at your dream resort!
"Unlocking" these Big Name resorts means finding clever ways to experience their legendary slopes without paying the full price. We provide insider tips on securing lift ticket discounts, finding affordable accommodations, and other strategies to stretch your budget.
Step 1: Organize Your Ski Group and Choose Your Dates
Before diving into booking your affordable ski vacation, gather your group—whether it’s your partner, family, or friends—and choose a date that works for everyone. The earlier you lock in your dates, the better, especially if you’re after the best deals. Once you have your crew and your dates set, you’re ready to move on.
Step 2: Select the Best Airport to Fly Into
SkiSaver offers trips from the following cities. Research the price of flying from your location to these airports for the best deals on flights to your ski destination:
Denver, CO
Seattle, WA
Boise, ID
Spokane, WA
Missoula, MT
Glacier National Park International Airport, MT
Jackson Hole, WY
Pick the three airports that work best for your group’s travel plans.
Step 3: Choose the Best Ski Resort for Your Group
No need to do the research yourself—we’ve already found the best affordable ski resorts for you! After selecting your airport, head over to our detailed articles about ski resorts near your chosen destination. Each article gives you all the information you need, including:
Lift ticket prices
Terrain and snow conditions
Accommodations
How to get there
With this guide, there’s no guesswork. You’ll be able to compare options and decide which resort fits your group’s vibe and budget. Our SkiSaver hidden gem resorts are selected for their affordability, unique appeal, and excellent ski conditions. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly resort or something with more adventure, we’ve got the perfect option for you. Check out each location below!
Once you’ve selected your resort, it’s time to book your accommodation! We’ve already researched affordable lodging options at each resort. Simply click on the affiliate links in our articles to book directly through SkiSaver, ensuring the best prices and the perfect place for your group to stay. From cozy cabins to spacious condos, we’ve got you covered. Although you can get the same deals elsewhere, booking through our links helps us continue to provide awesome affordable vacations. Booking through our links provides us with a small commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support!
Step 4: Book Your Accommodations (Check out Recommendations!)
Step 5: Hit the Slopes and Enjoy the Savings!
You’re all set! With your resort, flights, and accommodations booked, you’re ready to enjoy your epic (yes, we’re using that word again!) ski vacation—without worrying about overspending. Hit the slopes, make memories, and enjoy a fantastic trip that won’t leave you with sticker shock when you get home.
Bonus Tip!
Follow us on Instagram to learn about sales across major and lesser known resorts!
