Ski season is almost here! This means long days spent at the resorts ripping down the mountain and enjoying après-ski activities with friends. But as much as we all love skiing and the culture that surrounds it, it can also be an expensive hobby. So how can you save money while still having a fun and memorable ski season? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your winter adventures without breaking the bank. Shred more, spend less.

Consider the Value of a Season Pass

If you plan to ski a bunch during the season, investing in a ski pass is probably worth it. Ikon and Epic are the two main pass options you can choose from that can be used at various ski resorts worldwide. If you only plan to go a couple of times, however, the price of the pass wouldn't make sense for you. If you decide against a pass, be sure to look into discounts for day passes. If you have friends who have ski passes, you may be able to use their buddy discounts. Be sure to do your research on the best deals and any restrictions that may apply.

There are also different levels of each pass you can get, depending on how much you want to spend and what perks you want. The Ikon Base Pass, for example, does not include any of the Aspen resorts, so if that's on your list and you're buying an Ikon season pass, go for the full pass. Additionally, higher-level passes don't include blackout days, while lower-level passes do. This may not be a problem for you, but if you plan on skiing during the holidays or peak season, be sure to factor in potential blackout dates when considering which pass to purchase. If you only plan to ski a few times, something like the Ikon Session Pass 4-Day could be for you.

Knowing yourself will help you decide which option is best for your wallet. If you don't plan to ski a lot, buying a pass may not be the best option for you. But if skiing is your go-to winter activity and you see many trips in your future, it could help save some money in the long run. Do your research on what will make the most sense for your winter lifestyle and your wallet.

Beat the Lodge Prices: DIY Mountain Meals

Lodge food can be expensive, and let's be honest, most of the time, it's pretty average. While it may seem like the most convenient option to buy food on the mountain, you can save yourself some money by bringing your own food. It doesn't have to be complicated! Make sandwiches beforehand and pack your pockets with snacks like granola bars. If you do feel like cooking and have a portable stove or grill, you can also bring that along and cook in the lot. One simple meal to make on the stove involves chicken, veggies, tortillas, and cheese. Just cook it all up and wrap it in a tortilla for an easy, tasty, and cost-effective taco. Plan ahead for your ski days so you don't get stuck paying an absurd amount of money for chicken tenders.

Book Lodging Early

If you're going to take ski trips where you're staying overnight, it's best to plan and book as early as possible. Prices will typically increase the closer you get to your desired dates. You can also save some money by staying at lodging options outside of the resort area. For example, when I skied in Aspen, Colorado, we stayed at a hotel in Glenwood Springs, which is about an hour away. I could also use credit card points to book it, so that's another tip to keep in mind. Rentals such as Airbnbs can be a great option for larger groups that will accommodate everyone and can potentially reduce the cost depending on the size of your crew and how many people it allows.

Cut Costs on Ski Gear

Ski gear isn't cheap either. If you're new to skiing, it's best to rent gear until you know if it's something you want to invest in. If you know you're planning to ski quite a bit, but don't own your own gear yet, season rentals are a great option. I rented skis, boots, and poles from Christy Sports during my first season in Colorado and then bought out the skis at the end of the season. If you decide to buy your own gear, shop at local ski swaps or look for sales at the end of the season. You can also check out discount retailers and Facebook Marketplace, as they'll have everything from goggles to ski poles to boots.

Save on Gas and Parking

Carpooling is not only a more environmentally friendly option but can also save you money on gas and parking fees. If you or someone you ride with has extra room in their car, you can save money by riding together. Additionally, many resorts offer shuttle services from nearby cities or airports, so take advantage of those options if they are available.

Time to Hit the Slopes!

Now that you have some tips on how to save money this ski season, it's time to hit the slopes. By being mindful of your spending and taking advantage of these money-saving tips, you can make sure your wallet stays happy. Skiing is an incredible sport, but various costs can add up. Using these tips, you can enjoy the snow and save a little bit along the way.

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