We look at tips for finding the best value locations for skiing, there are countries where skiing may be more affordable due to favourable exchange rates or lower costs of living.
David Brown No-one ever took up skiing to save money!
Skiing is not the cheapest of sports and it can be difficult to determine the cheapest place to ski, as the cost of a ski trip depends on a variety of factors, including the cost of flights and transportation, the cost of accommodation and lift tickets, and the cost of other activities and services.
Then, when you ski abroad, all of these myriad costs are then affected by the exchange rate between your domestic currency and the local currency at your destination.
But wait, it’s not all bad news. If you keep an eye on exchange rates you can find which country’s currency has dropped since last year giving you automatic savings.
To help with this, you can use the below table to decide which currencies/countries might be in your favour when choosing a destination for your next ski holiday.
Exchange rates can affect the cost of a ski trip in several ways:
Overall, it is important to research ski destinations carefully and compare the costs of different resorts to find the best value for your money. It is also a good idea to keep an eye on exchange rates and book your trip in advance to take advantage of any discounts or promotions that may be available.
The following is a list of bargain ski destinations, along with their associated costs and exchange rate changes over the past year:
Currency: Japanese yen (JPY)
Skiing in Japan can be relatively expensive compared to other ski destinations in Asia, but it can offer some of the best ski experiences in the region, with world-class ski resorts and abundant snowfall. The cost of lift tickets and equipment rental at ski resorts in Japan can be more expensive than at resorts in other countries in Asia, and the cost of accommodation and food can also be higher.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Japan can cost around ¥8,000-12,000 JPY (Japanese Yen) which is around 70-100 USD, while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in South Korea can cost around 50-70 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around ¥8,000-15,000 JPY (70-130 USD) per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around ¥20,000-40,000 JPY (180-350 USD) per night.
Food and drink in Japan can also be relatively expensive, especially in the ski resorts. You can find a meal at a restaurant for around ¥2,000-3,000 JPY (18-25 USD).
Overall, skiing in Japan can be an expensive option for skiers and snowboarders, but it can offer some of the best ski experiences in Asia, with world-class ski resorts and abundant snowfall. It’s worth noting that the ski resorts in Japan may be more developed and modern than those in other Asian countries, and offer more amenities and facilities. Additionally, the ski slopes may be more groomed and the snow cover can be more consistent than in other countries. It’s advisable to research and compare the costs of different ski resorts in Japan to find the one that fits best with your budget and ski preference.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Skiing in the Eurozone can vary widely in cost depending on the location and level of amenities offered by the ski resort. Some ski resorts in Spain can be relatively affordable, while others in countries such as France, Switzerland, and Austria can be quite expensive.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Spain can cost around 25-45 EUR (Euros), while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in France, Italy or Austria can cost around 50-100 EUR.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around 20-50 EUR per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around 80-150 EUR per night.
Food and drink in the Eurozone can also vary widely in cost, depending on the location and type of restaurant. You can find a meal at a restaurant for around 10-20 EUR
Overall, skiing in the Eurozone can vary widely in cost depending on the location and level of amenities offered by the ski resort. It’s advisable to research and compare the costs of different ski resorts in the Eurozone to find the one that fits best with your budget and ski preference. Some ski resorts offer discounts for booking in advance or for purchasing multi-day lift tickets which can help to save money.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Spain is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination for skiing, with relatively low lift ticket prices and a wide range of accommodation options available. Additionally, the exchange rate between the Euro and the US dollar can also make skiing in Spain more affordable for American tourists. However, this can vary depending on the specific resort and time of year you plan to visit.
The cost of lift tickets in Spain can vary depending on the specific ski resort and time of year you plan to visit. On average, a one-day lift ticket at a popular resort in Spain can cost between 25 to 45 Euros. However, many resorts offer discounts for multi-day lift tickets and deals for early bookings, so it’s always best to check the ski resort’s website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on the exchange rate between the Euro and the US dollar.
Currency: Swedish kroner (SEK)
Skiing in Sweden can be relatively affordable compared to other European countries. The cost of lift tickets and equipment rental at ski resorts in Sweden can be less expensive than at resorts in Western Europe, and the cost of accommodation and food can also be more reasonable.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Sweden can cost around 300-450 SEK (Swedish Krona) which is around 30-50 USD, while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Western Europe can cost around 50-100 EUR (Euros) which is around 60-120 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around 300-500 SEK (30-50 USD) per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around 1000-2000 SEK (100-200 USD) per night.
Food and drink in Sweden can be relatively expensive, especially in the ski resorts, you can find a meal at a restaurant for around 80-120 SEK (8-12 USD)
Overall, skiing in Sweden can be an affordable option for budget-conscious skiers and snowboarders looking for a ski vacation in Europe. However, it’s worth noting that the ski resorts in Sweden may not be as well-developed or modern as those in Western Europe, and the infrastructure and facilities may not be as advanced. Additionally, the ski slopes may be less groomed and the snow cover can be less consistent than in other European countries.
Currency: Bulgarian lev (BGN)
Bulgaria is a country in Eastern Europe that offers a number of ski resorts for winter sports enthusiasts. When it comes to accommodation, Bulgaria offer
Skiing in Bulgaria is generally considered to be quite affordable compared to other European ski destinations. Lift tickets, rental equipment, and accommodations are all relatively reasonably priced.
Lift tickets typically cost between 25-40 euro per day, and a 6-day pass can cost around 150 euro, depending on the ski resort. Prices for rental equipment, such as skis, boots, and poles, are generally in the range of 15-25 euro per day.
s a wide range of options for skiers and snowboarders of all budgets. Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses can be found for as little as 20-30 euro per night, while luxury resorts can cost upwards of 100 euro per night. Additionally, you can rent a house or an apartment in the ski resort at an affordable price.
Food in Bulgaria is quite cheap, you can get a good meal for 5-10 euro and in the ski resorts restaurants prices are slightly higher but still affordable.
As for transportation, Bulgaria has a good network of bus and train connections, if you’re coming from Sofia or other major cities, you can get to the ski resorts relatively easily and at a low cost.
It’s worth noting that some ski resorts in Bulgaria offer package deals that include lift tickets, rental equipment, and accommodations at a discounted rate. These can be a great way to save money on a ski vacation in Bulgaria.
Keep in mind that some activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating, are not included in the lift ticket and can cost extra.
The country has several mountain ranges, including the Rila, Pirin, and the Balkan Mountains, which provide a variety of ski slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The Bulgarian ski season typically runs from December to April, depending on snow conditions. Prices for lift tickets and rental equipment are generally quite reasonable, and accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts.
In summary, skiing in Bulgaria can be a relatively affordable option for those looking to enjoy a winter sports vacation in Europe. With good ski resorts and low-cost accommodations and lift tickets, Bulgaria can be a great value for budget-conscious skiers and snowboarders.
Currency: Norwegian kroner (NOK)
Skiing in Norway is considered to be excellent, with a variety of ski resorts and slopes to choose from. The ski season in Norway typically runs from November to May, with the best conditions typically found in the late winter and early spring.
Norway has a number of ski resorts, some of the most popular ski resorts in Norway include Hemsedal, Trysil, and Geilo.
Hemsedal is one of the most popular ski resorts in Norway, with over 80 km of ski slopes, it’s considered one of the most snow-sure ski areas in the country. Trysil, located in the southeast of Norway, is one of the largest ski resorts in the country. It offers over 80 km of ski slopes, including a variety of groomed runs, off-piste terrain, and a terrain park for snowboarders and freeskiers. Geilo, located in the heart of the Norwegian mountains, offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, and also offers a variety of off-mountain activities, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog-sledding.
In addition to the ski slopes, many of the ski resorts in Norway also offer other activities such as snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The ski resorts also offer a variety of après-ski options, including bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
However, it’s worth noting that skiing in Norway can be relatively expensive compared to other ski destinations in Europe, and accommodations can be limited. Also, the weather conditions can be harsh, and the temperature can drop below freezing, so make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold.
Currency: Polish zloty (PLN)
Skiing in Poland can be relatively affordable compared to other European countries. The cost of lift tickets and equipment rental at ski resorts in Poland is generally less expensive than at resorts in Western Europe, and the cost of accommodation and food can also be more reasonable.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Poland can cost around 50-60 PLN (Polish Zloty) which is around 12-15 USD, while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Western Europe can cost around 50-100 EUR (Euros) which is around 60-120 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around 50-100 PLN (12-25 USD) per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around 200-400 PLN (50-100 USD) per night.
Food and drink in Poland is relatively cheap, you can find a meal at a restaurant for around 20-30 PLN (5-7 USD)
Overall, skiing in Poland can be an affordable option for budget-conscious skiers and snowboarders looking for a ski vacation in Europe. However, it’s worth noting that the ski resorts in Poland may not be as well-developed or modern as those in Western Europe, and the infrastructure and facilities may not be as advanced. Additionally, the ski slopes may be less groomed and the snow cover can be less consistent than in other European countries.
Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD)
Skiing in Canada can be relatively expensive compared to other ski destinations in North America. The cost of lift tickets and equipment rental at ski resorts in Canada can be more expensive than at resorts in the United States, and the cost of accommodation and food can also be higher.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Canada can cost around $70-100 CAD (Canadian Dollar) while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in the United States can cost around $50-80 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around $50-80 CAD per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around $150-300 CAD per night.
Food and drink in Canada can also be relatively expensive, especially in the ski resorts. You can find a meal at a restaurant for around $15-25 CAD
Overall, skiing in Canada can be an expensive option for skiers and snowboarders, but it can also offer some of the best ski experiences in North America, with world-class ski resorts and abundant snowfall. It’s worth noting that the ski resorts in Canada may be more developed and modern than those in other North American countries and offer more amenities and facilities. Additionally, the ski slopes may be more groomed and the snow cover can be more consistent than in other countries. It’s advisable to research and compare the costs of different ski resorts in Canada to find the one that fits best with your budget and ski preference.
Currency: US dollar (USD)
Skiing in the United States can vary widely in cost depending on the location and level of amenities offered by the ski resort. Some ski resorts can be relatively affordable, while others can be quite expensive.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in the Western United States can cost around $70-100 USD, while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in the Midwest or Eastern United States can cost around $50-70 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around $50-80 USD per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around $150-300 USD per night.
Food and drink in the United States can also vary widely in cost, depending on the location and type of restaurant. You can find a meal at a restaurant for around $15-25 USD
Overall, skiing in the United States can vary widely in cost depending on the location and level of amenities offered by the ski resort. It’s advisable to research and compare the costs of different ski resorts in the United States to find the one that fits best with your budget and ski preference. Some ski resorts offer discounts for booking in advance or for purchasing multi-day lift tickets.
Currency: Chilean peso (CLP)
Skiing in Chile is considered to be quite good, with a variety of ski resorts and slopes to choose from. The ski season in Chile typically runs from June to October, with the best conditions typically found in July and August.
Chile has a number of ski resorts in the Andes mountain range, which offers some of the highest and most challenging ski slopes in South America. Some of the most popular ski resorts in Chile include Portillo, Valle Nevado, and El Colorado.
Portillo, located in the central Andes, is one of the oldest and most traditional ski resorts in South America. It offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, including steep runs and long cruisers. Valle Nevado, located near Santiago, is one of the largest ski resorts in South America. It offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, including groomed cruisers, steep runs, and off-piste terrain. El Colorado, located near Santiago, is a family-friendly ski resort with a variety of slopes for all skill levels, including a terrain park for snowboarders and freeskiers.
In addition to the ski slopes, many of the ski resorts in Chile also offer other activities such as snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The ski resorts also offer a variety of après-ski options, including bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
However, it’s worth noting that skiing in Chile can be relatively expensive compared to other ski destinations in South America, but it can offer some of the best ski experiences in the region, with world-class ski resorts and abundant snowfall. The cost of lift tickets and equipment rental at ski resorts in Chile can be more expensive than at resorts in other countries in South America, and the cost of accommodation and food can also be higher.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Chile can cost around $40-60 USD, while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Argentina can cost around $30-40 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around $20-30 USD per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around $60-100 USD per night.
Food and drink in Chile can also be relatively expensive, especially in the ski resorts. You can find a meal at a restaurant for around $10-20 USD.
Overall, skiing in Chile can be an expensive option for skiers and snowboarders, but it can offer some of the best ski experiences in South America, with world-class ski resorts and abundant snowfall. It’s worth noting that the ski resorts in Chile may be more developed and modern than those in other South American countries, and offer more amenities and facilities. Additionally, the ski slopes may be more groomed and the snow cover can be more consistent than in other countries. It’s advisable to research and compare the costs of different ski resorts in Chile to find the one that fits best with your budget and ski preference.
Currency: Argentine peso (ARS)
Skiing in Argentina is generally considered to be excellent, with a variety of ski resorts and slopes to choose from. The country’s ski season typically runs from June to October, with the best conditions typically found in July and August.
The Andes mountain range, which runs through Argentina, offers some of the highest and most challenging ski slopes in South America. Some of the most popular ski resorts in Argentina include Las Leñas, Cerro Catedral, and Cerro Bayo.
Las Leñas is considered one of the best ski resorts in South America, with over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, including steep runs and long, groomed cruisers. Cerro Catedral, located near Bariloche, offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels and also is home to one of the biggest snow parks in South America. Cerro Bayo, located in the Patagonia region, offers a more intimate and exclusive ski experience with a wide range of slopes for all skill levels.
In addition to the ski slopes, many of the ski resorts in Argentina also offer other activities such as snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The ski resorts also offer a variety of après-ski options, including bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
Skiing in Argentina can be relatively affordable compared to other ski destinations in South America and other parts of the world. The cost of lift tickets and equipment rental at ski resorts in Argentina can be less expensive than at resorts in other countries, and the cost of accommodation and food can also be more reasonable.
For example, a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in Argentina can cost around AR$ 600-1000 (Argentinian Pesos) which is around 6-10 USD, while a full-day lift ticket at a ski resort in North America can cost around $70-100 USD.
The cost of accommodation can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget-friendly options like hostels or apartments can be found for around AR$ 1000-2000 (10-20 USD) per night, while more luxurious options like hotels can cost around AR$ 3000-5000 (30-50 USD) per night.
Food and drink in Argentina can also be relatively affordable. You can find a meal at a restaurant for around AR$ 200-300 (2-3 USD)
Overall, skiing in Argentina can be an affordable option for skiers and snowboarders looking for a ski vacation in South America, however, it’s worth noting that the ski resorts in Argentina may not be as well-developed or modern as those in North America or Europe, and the infrastructure and facilities may not be as advanced. Additionally, the ski slopes may be less groomed and the snow cover can be less consistent than in other countries. It’s advisable to research and compare the costs of different ski resorts in Argentina to find the one that fits best with your budget and ski preference.
Currency: Indian rupee (INR)
Skiing in India is not as well-developed or popular as in other countries, but there are still opportunities to ski in the country. The skiing season in India typically runs from December to February, and the best conditions can be found in the northern states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
Auli, located in the state of Uttarakhand, is considered one of the best ski destinations in India. It offers slopes for skiers of all skill levels, and there are ski rental shops and instructors available for those who need them. Gulmarg, located in Jammu and Kashmir, is another popular ski destination in India. It offers a variety of ski runs, including a ski-in, ski-out option at the Gulmarg Gondola, the highest operating cable car in the world.
However, it’s worth noting that the ski resorts in India are relatively basic compared to those in other countries, and the infrastructure may not be as well-developed. Additionally, the ski equipment and facilities may not be as advanced, and the ski slopes may be less groomed. Also, the weather conditions in these regions can be harsh, and the temperature can drop below freezing, so make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold.
When comparing exchange rates for a ski trip, sending transfers for accomodation and organsing travel money, there are a few things you can do:
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Overall, it is important to keep an eye on exchange rates when planning a ski trip and to consider how they may affect the cost of your trip. If the exchange rate is not favorable, it may be a good idea to look for ways to save money on other aspects of your trip, such as by traveling during the off-season or booking package deals.
Here are some more tips for finding the best value location for skiing:
Look for ski resorts that offer discounts: Many ski resorts offer discounts on lift tickets, rental equipment, and other services to attract skiers. Look for resorts that offer special promotions or discounts, particularly if you are traveling during the off-season or midweek.
Consider alternative ski destinations: Ski resorts in more remote or less popular locations may offer lower prices than resorts in popular destinations. Consider skiing in smaller resorts or in countries where the cost of living is lower.
Book your trip in advance: Ski resorts often offer discounts for early bookings, so it is a good idea to plan your trip in advance and book your accommodations and lift tickets as early as possible.
Travel during the off-season: Ski resorts are typically busiest and most expensive during the peak ski season, which is usually from December to March. Consider traveling during the shoulder season (late November or early April) or the off-season (summer or fall) to get the best value.
Look for package deals: Many ski resorts offer package deals that include accommodations, lift tickets, and other amenities. Look for packages that include everything you need, as they may offer a better value than booking each item separately.
Rent equipment instead of buying it: Renting ski equipment can be a more cost-effective option than buying it, particularly if you only ski a few times per year. Many ski resorts offer equipment rentals, or you can rent equipment from a local shop.
Disclaimer: Please note any provider recommendations, currency forecasts or any opinions of our authors or users should not be taken as a reference to buy or sell any financial product.