If you're looking to plan a budget ski trip, when should you plan on going?
As a general rule, you're going to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and lift tickets during the off-peak times of the season. The North American ski season lasts from about early December through late March and even early April in some places, and typically you'll get great deals in early December and again when the season begins to end. What is interesting about 2009 is that we're actually seeing great deals now. Last year all the headlines said, "It's too expensive to travel." Nine months ago, fuel prices were soaring, but now, they're the lowest they've been since 2004. That, paired with the fact that the economic conditions have caused fewer people to be looking to travel, has caused the airlines to offer these really great fares.
How far in advance should you book your ski vacation flights, and how do you know if you're getting a good deal?
Start looking for flights now, even if you're not planning on taking your trip until late March or early April. There are very, very vague guidelines you can follow to know if you are getting a good fare. In general, if you are flying east to west (from New York to California, for example) anything under $350 round trip is pretty good. If you're flying north to south, just over $200 round trip is pretty good.
What days should you plan your trip to cut down on costs?
You always want to book flights that leave Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday to get the best fares. Avoid Friday and Sunday. Hotels, ski-lift tickets, and other things are all going to be more affordable and less crowded on those off days. Avoid going when everyone else does and you'll have a more budget-friendly vacation.
Do you have any insider's tips for finding affordable flights?
Definitely take advantage of the online resources. At Cheapflights.com you can sign up for a newsletter that will alert you to new travel deals. The other thing I'd recommend is looking into alternative airport options. Often, if you're willing to go outside your comfort zone and look at secondary airports that may be a short drive from your destination, you'll get really great flight fares.
What other ways can you save money when booking a ski vacation?
When booking your hotel, the reservationist can really be a great help. Ask if they offer any ski packages; most offer discount tickets when you book a room. If you don't find luck with your hotel, check online. Most resorts will offer discounts on their Websites. Another option is to check the ski association's Website for the state you plan to visit and you'll find all sorts of deals. I know at Colorado Ski Country USA you can order a free card that will allow you to save at nine of the state's resorts and get deals that include free ski days. Plus, you can apply for free lift tickets for kids in fifth and sixth grade. The Utah Ski Association site offers the same deal for fifth and sixth graders.
For Carl's top picks for cheap ski getaway's check out Going Places all week.
