7 errors to avoid when organizing a ski trip

Nothing compares to a ski trip: the fresh, crisp mountain air, the exhilarating rush as you glide down the slopes, and the anxiety when you receive your final credit card statement. Ski trips can create unforgettable memories, but they also come with financial and logistical challenges. Add the complexities of planning during a pandemic, and it can become overwhelming.

Having spent 14 years living and working in ski resort towns and taking ski trips solo, I’ve identified seven common missteps to dodge for a seamless downhill adventure.

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Overspending

Improvising your ski trip can lead to significant issues. Accommodation, lift tickets, lessons, and rental gear can really take a toll on your finances if you don’t arrange everything in advance. Furthermore, many places, including all 34 Vail resorts, now require reservations for mountain access, making prior planning essential.

Lift tickets

The most effective way to snag discounted lift tickets is to buy them ahead of time. Options like the Ikon Pass or the Epic Pass are excellent if your plans are somewhat set—these passes cover most ski resorts across the United States and some in Canada.

If you don’t end up with a pass, don’t worry: you can still find slightly cheaper lift tickets by purchasing in advance (just remember that reservations may also be required this season). Visit the resort's website of your choice, and you’ll often discover discounted lift tickets if you buy at least a week in advance. While the savings may seem small, that $10 saved can buy you a beer on the slopes. Additionally, check websites like Liftopia.com or Ski.com for further discounts.

Programs for kids and seniors often allow free skiing, so be sure to explore those options as well.

Equipment rentals

To save money on equipment rentals, it's wise to book in advance. You can often find deals that bundle lift tickets with rentals for added savings. Alternatively, consider renting gear from large retail stores in the city before you hit the slopes. While you will need to carry the equipment, this can lead to significant savings.

Accommodations

When choosing your accommodations, consider your location and priorities to avoid overspending.

While ski-in/ski-out options are convenient, they come with a higher price tag. Conversely, a property advertised as "steps from the slope" might actually be several miles away if you don’t do thorough research. For group trips, you might find that renting a larger home can be more cost-effective than booking several hotel rooms.

Look out for package deals: Many resorts offer bundled options that include lift tickets, rentals, and lodging, or ski-free/stay-free promotions that can lead to significant savings.

Numerous ski-friendly hotels allow you to use points for stays on or near the mountain, maximizing your benefits.

Since many hotel loyalty programs let you redeem points for standard rooms when available, planning ahead gives you the best chance of securing your desired accommodation. Remember, ski resorts can fill up quickly during peak season, so use your points early to protect your budget.

Believing you need a car

Before you commit to renting that expensive SUV (which might lack 4-wheel drive or proper snow tires), think about skipping the rental car entirely for certain ski trips. Driving in snowy conditions can be tricky if you’re not accustomed to it, and depending on your location, getting stuck or lacking the right tires and chains could lead to hefty fines or even accidents.

Rather than driving, consider utilizing a shuttle service from the airport to your accommodation, hopping on the bus (both Denver and Salt Lake City offer ski buses that connect to resorts), or even taking the train. Once you arrive, you likely won’t need a car unless your rental is located outside the town. Many resort towns provide free bus services, and your accommodation may offer shuttles around the area.

Failing to have a "Plan B"

Flying into a small regional airport close to the mountain can be ideal when everything goes smoothly. Airports in ski towns like Telluride, Aspen, and Vail-Eagle are great, but be aware that winter weather can lead to flight cancellations or even airport closures for several days.

When this occurs, it can lead to some interesting challenges—especially during peak season. If you choose to fly into a smaller airport, make sure to have a contingency plan in case winter weather disrupts your travel and you find yourself unable to leave for an extended period. This could involve securing travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses, identifying a larger airport you can reach by car (like Denver), or simply allowing extra time in your schedule before returning to work or school, so you’re not stressed if you end up with a few unexpected days of snowy adventure.

Underestimating your skill level

Sure, you might be conquering double-black diamonds in North Carolina or Maryland, but that doesn't necessarily mean you're prepared for the steepest runs at Jackson Hole or Aspen.

A common mistake I observe on the slopes is when people either overrate their skills or misjudge the challenge of the mountain. Each ski resort presents its own unique characteristics.

While the symbols for green circle, blue square, and black diamond are nearly universal, the steepness, grooming, and fall lines of these runs can differ significantly from one resort to another. To avoid injuring yourself or others on your first day, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Many people at the base area are eager to share the latest grooming updates and recommend the best beginner runs. Take advantage of their insights and be attentive to warnings about slow zones and out-of-bounds areas. Some resorts even offer free guided tours at scheduled times, providing another excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with the slopes.

Skipping out on lessons

You can find ways to cut costs on a ski trip, but forgoing a ski lesson should not be one of them.

While it might be tempting to skip the hefty fees of ski schools or private lessons, the frustration, heightened risk of injury, and prolonged learning curve that come with self-teaching are usually not worth it.

If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, taking a lesson can significantly enhance your enjoyment and safety on the slopes for both you and those around you.

An instructor not only aids in your progression but also teaches the skier safety code and guides you around the mountain. On busy days at ski resorts, instructors have a designated lane at the lifts for their students, allowing you to bypass the queues. Even as an experienced skier or snowboarder, you're likely to gain valuable insights from a lesson.

If you're thinking of teaching your partner, friend, child, or parent how to ski or snowboard—don't do it.

The resort has professionals available for this task. Not only will your loved one receive a proper lesson, but you'll also maintain your relationship by the end of the day.

Additionally, many resorts offer packages that combine beginner ski lessons with lift tickets, helping you save money. Be sure to check online before you buy your multi-day lift ticket. Remember to book your lessons well in advance since ski schools can fill up quickly.

Neglecting to check out other attractions

While you're on a ski trip, there's definitely something to be said for taking a day off.

Most lift tickets offer options like "3 out of 5 days" or "4 out of 6 days," allowing you the flexibility to select your days on the slopes. By the third day, we can almost guarantee your legs will be begging for a break.

Resorts provide a wide array of activities for both skiers and non-skiers, including mountain coasters, snow tubing, dog sledding, hot-air balloon rides, ski biking, ice skating, snowshoeing, fat biking, and ice forts, among others.

Spas are abundant, with many serving as destinations in their own right. Some resort ski towns boast rich, vibrant histories. Explore a museum or join a walking tour to uncover ghost stories and colorful tales.

Overlooking the fact that others enjoy skiing as well

A common mistake many make is underestimating how many fellow skiers are eager to hit the slopes during holidays, spring break, or weekend getaways to ski resorts.

This often leads to frustration and disappointment when faced with crowds, long lines, or heavy traffic. While pandemic-era regulations might keep some crowds in check, you could still find yourself unable to access the mountain if you don’t finalize your plans early.

To steer clear of crowds, aim to travel during off-peak times, ski on weekdays, or settle in one spot at a destination resort to reduce road traffic. If possible, skip long holiday weekends and school spring breaks.

Those engaging in remote work or learning this year might enjoy greater flexibility for skiing than ever before. If holidays are your only option, look for resorts that are situated further from major urban centers.

In summary

Ski trips can be a delightful, socially distanced adventure for the entire family. However, they can also quickly become frustrating and costly if you don’t plan ahead. Now is the ideal time to map out your ski trips for the upcoming season, ensuring you create wonderful memories on the slopes.