BUY ONE LIFT PASS, GET ONE HALF PRICE
Buy one lift pass and get another one half price when you book a Winter 2023/24 ski trip to Europe. T&Cs apply.
It is difficult to determine the typical cost of a ski trip because it greatly differs based on factors like where and when you go.
Like any holiday, the main expenses will be your airfare, airport transfers, and accommodation, all of which are covered by a Crystal package. Additionally, you’ll need some spending money for meals, beverages, and other holiday-related activities. You will also require winter sports gear, a lift pass, equipment rental, and perhaps some ski or snowboarding lessons if this is your first time.
Timing is Key
Choosing the right time for your ski holiday can significantly impact your budget. Peak season, which usually falls during school breaks and major holidays, tends to be the most expensive. Opt for the shoulder season or off-peak periods when prices for accommodations, lift tickets, and other activities are lower.
Location, location, location
If you’re searching for value, choose a smaller location or one that’s less well-known because the most famous resorts also tend to be the most expensive.
Bulgaria and Andorra are popular destinations for those looking for a good deal. You can secure outstanding accommodation and all of your ski extras for a fraction of the cost in the Alps. Also, resort prices are lower, allowing you to spend less on items like meals and drinks. You won’t be lacking anything in terms of the experience because both countries feature resorts with great ski areas, top-notch ski schools, après ski, and other winter activities.
Explore alternative eating options
Eating out at ski resorts can quickly eat up your budget. You can choose to go half-board and have your breakfast and evening meals included in the upfront cost. Or to save even more money, choose accommodation with kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare your meals. Head to local grocery stores for ingredients and snacks instead of relying on expensive resort restaurants. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also an opportunity to experience the local culture.
Bring your own gear
If you are a seasoned skier and have your own gear, bring it along. Renting equipment on-site can be costly, especially for an extended stay. If you’re a beginner or an occasional skier, consider borrowing gear from friends or family or explore renting from local shops outside the resort area, where prices are generally more competitive.
Think about the extras
Lift passes are the staple of every ski holiday – it’s literally your ticket to the mountain, giving you access to all of the drag lifts, chairlifts, cable cars and gondolas.
Families can save extra in some resorts too, with free lift passes for children.
As for which lift pass to buy, you’ll sometimes have a choice been a local one (for the nearby slopes) and an area pass (for the wider ski area). If you’re new to skiing, stick to a local pass – it’ll be cheaper and you probably won’t be skiing the whole area on your first trip.
Value for money après ski
While skiing is the main attraction, there are often free or low-cost activities you can enjoy during your ski holiday. Some resorts offer free guided tours, snowshoeing trails, or sledding areas. Check the resort’s event calendar for free concerts, festivals, or movie nights. Exploring the surrounding area and taking in the natural beauty can be both budget-friendly and rewarding.
Dublin – Bulgaria: Depart 23rd December 2023. Staying at 3* Hotel Samokov, Borovets for 7 nights on a bed & breakfast basis from €689pps, €2,019 (2 adults + 1 child), €2,739 (2 adults + 2 children)
Dublin – Andorra: Depart 14th January 2024. Staying at 3* Hotel Xalet Besoli, Arinsal for 7 nights on a half-board basis from €695pps
Dublin – Andorra: Depart 14th January 2024. Staying at 4* Aparthotel Alaska, Pas De La casa for 7 nights on a self-catering basis from €619pps (based on 4 sharing)
Dublin – Italy: Depart 24th December 2023. Staying at 3* Hotel Martin, Sauze D’Oulx for 7 nights on a half-board basis from €819pps
Dublin – Italy: Depart 17th March 2024. Staying at 3* Residence Planibel, La Thuile for 7 nights on a self-catering basis from €1,659** (2 adults + 1 child), or €2,139** (2 adults + 2 children)
Dublin – Italy: Depart 17th March 2024. Staying at 3* Borgo Stalle Apts, Prato Nevoso for 7 nights on a self-catering basis from €639pp (based on 4 sharing)
Dublin – France: Depart 7th January 2024. Staying at 3* Le Mont Soleil Apartments, La Plagne for 7 nights on a self-catering basis from €679pps (based on 4 sharing)
Dublin – Austria: Depart 2nd March 2024. Staying at 2* Pension Mair, St Johann for 7 nights on a bed & breakfast basis from €749pps
**Prices include one free child place
All include flights from Dublin, 20kg luggage and transfers.
Book with Crystal Ski & call a ski advisor on 01 653 3501.
All holidays and prices are subject to change & availability and are based on 2 sharing and are for 7 nights (Unless stated above). Prices do not include optional extras such as insurance, in-flight meals, or group seating. Normal Crystal Ski terms & conditions apply.