Industry News
The ski season is here, and while it’s one of the most exciting winter escapes, the costs of lift tickets, gear, and après-ski indulgences can quickly add up. While some skiers look to Europe for better deals, the last-minute booking app HotelTonight offers an affordable way to enjoy top ski destinations closer to home.
According to January 2024 booking data from HotelTonight, January 2 is the most affordable day for a ski trip, with average daily rates starting at just $129 in prime destinations like Tahoe, CA, Stowe, VT, Park City, UT, and more. Travelers can save up to 30% on room rates through HotelTonight when booking these last-minute trips to hit the slopes.
Many factors come into play when it comes to costs and when to book that vacation ski trip. Holidays and weekends are the most expensive times to book a room; therefore, planning a trip during the week can make a big difference in cost. “Take your ski trip during the week if you can do so. Booking on a Monday can make your trip 37% more affordable than booking on a Saturday in ideal destinations,” Ron Sandel, HotelTonight’s General Manager, said in an email to SnowBrains. According to Sandel, January is a great month to plan a ski getaway, offering deals while avoiding the holiday crowds. For those seeking quieter slopes and better prices, travelers may also consider just before or after peak periods.
There are also times throughout the season that every skier knows to avoid. Any holiday weekend or when school is out for winter break are peak times. “Avoid major holidays and school vacations like Spring Break and President’s Week, as these times typically have elevated prices and crowded slopes. Mid-February through early March tends to be particularly busy across most ski destinations, but there are some tricks to save during peak weeks, too,” Sandel said.
According to Sandel, there are deals and discounts available. Guests can save money by choosing underrated destinations instead of highly sought-after ski areas like Aspen or Jackson Hole. Skiers should consider alternative spots like Steamboat Springs or Killington, which can offer a comparable experience at a lower cost, with fewer crowds. He also recommended booking the same day, not a peak day. “Think about taking a spontaneous day off after a storm hits to get great skiing at great rates. If the snow hits during the work week, you’ll find amazing deals and they’re even more incredible if you book the same day!” Sandel added.
Another significant factor is choosing the right app/website like HotelTonight will enable users to find rates discounted by up to 30% and take advantage of exclusive in-app deals, including the personalized ‘Daily Drop’ for even greater savings. The app offers a wide range of lodging options, from secluded mountain getaways to ski-in ski-out resorts!
There are plenty of ski resorts across the country, but which ones are known for having the best conditions, terrain, and the most affordable accommodations? Sandel recommended properties in Tahoe, Stowe, and Park City, with rates starting as low as $116, although he did admit those prices will be dependent on availability.
Here are the most affordable lodging accommodations according to HotelTonight in the United States:
Tahoe, CA – Average Daily Rates as low as $116
- Everline Resort & Spa (Tahoe – North Lake): Ski-in-out access
- Gravity Haus Truckee Tahoe (Tahoe – North Lake): Rustic-boutique hotel constructed from sustainable materials.
- Station House Inn (Tahoe – South Lake): Walkable to Alpine Lake, private beach, ski resorts, shops, dining, and casinos.
Stowe, VT – Average Daily Rates as low as $154
- AWOL Stowe: Cozy alpine hideaway, walkable to Stowe Village.
- Field Guide Lodge: Blend of rustic New England & modern chic, located near the slopes and the charming downtown.
- Tälta Lodge, a Bluebird by Lark: Skiers can relax Après-ski in the indoor pool or sauna.
Park City, UT – Average Daily Rates as low as $189
- Black Rock Mountain Resort: Located on the edge of the High Uintas Wilderness and a short drive from Park City.
- Hotel Park City, Autograph Collection: 5 minutes to skiing, Main Street & mountainside adventuring
Most skiers plan out their season months in advance, especially when it comes to air travel. Yes, driving an hour to a local mountain for a day trip is easy. But, when planning a trip that requires air travel, most think it would be too expensive to find affordable lodging. However, this may not be the case, according to Sandel. “If you have an itch for spontaneity (or just want to be sure you’ll get a powder day!), HotelTonight offers incredible, last-minute deals. HotelTonight offers exclusive deals on top-rated hotels with rates that are, on average, 18% lower than other booking platforms,” Sandel said. So, if you think that last minute ski trip will be too expensive and cost you loads of money, don’t worry. There are options for every skier to make that ski trip a reality.
For more information, visit HotelTonight’s website.
Terrible recommendations for Stowe based on the Title of this article. Maybe you are getting paid by them? Try Stowe Motel & Snowdrift or Timberholm Inn if you don’t want to not get ripped off at $531 a night.