SAVING MONEY IN THE SNOW

Epic powder spells hefty prices but you can afford to ski with these tips!

Buy early & save

“Organise your holiday well in advance,” says MELISHA

LIEGL, communications manager at Perisher Resort, NSW. “You can often save up to 25 per cent on lifts, lessons and equipment hire.”

Phone for a hotel

While ski-in-ski-out digs are heaven, booking a bed off the mountain might save you $100 a night or more. Choose a place with a kitchen so you can prepare your own meals. Always phone, rather than book online, says JASON

LAMBERT from The Base Ski and Snowboard Centre in Jindabyne, NSW. “If it’s close to your arrival date and they have plenty of openings, you may score a tidy discount.”

Do your prep

Pack all the essentials, such as food, wine, sunscreen, clothing, toiletries and snacks. “On-snow retail can be expensive,” says Melisha. A stash of BYO nuts, lollies and fruit means longer on those skis! Renting your skis, boots and safety gear off the mountain is cheaper, too.

Consider not skiing

“You can still have a blast at the snow without skiing or snowboarding. Consider tobogganing, Tubing or scenic chairlift rides,” Melisha says.

Hike up the hill

“You only need to buy a lift ticket if you’re actually using the lift,” says Jason. “The hiking option is worth considering because you’ll get an amazing workout and you’ll see the mountain from a different perspective.”

Join the club

“Look into members’ options when you’re booking your accommodation and gear rentals,” says Jason. “At The Base Ski and Snowboard Centre, we have a member’s program that links with local food outlets, petrol stations and cafes for discounts.”