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Facing a slippery slope - The high costs of skiing revealed
High altitude with low prices is the ideal situation for budding skiers.
However, with the peak season of Christmas followed by New Year and half term, this remains a dream for most people.
It is a well known fact that skiing holidays are not cheap, they come with hire costs for equipment, passes, food and drink, expensive chalets and clothing.
Winters sports enthusiasts keen to hurl themselves off a snowy mountain-top can expect to hit the bottom of their bank account by the end of their trip.
Gradually raising prices from November to April, ski resorts and airlines don’t offer much choice for those on a budget. Despite all the tour operators insisting that they offer cheap skiing holidays, the reality is that mountain high costs are lurking around the corner.
It might come as no surprise then that 73% of skiers and snowboarders are planning on cutting their budgets this season, according to Sainsbury’s Finance.
Here are a few things to consider when looking to cuts costs on the slopes;
Destination
Choosing the right destination for your skiing holiday could be the difference between a seriously good time and a seriously bad case of debt.
The research by Sainsbury’s Finance found that the most expensive destination for skiing was in Hokkaido, Japan which costs over £5,200 week!
Skiing closer to home in Eastern Europe, for example, is much more cost effective. Not only could you save money on flights, but also accommodation and currency.
Airlines
Airlines love nothing more than peak seasons, allowing them to charge winter sports fans enough to give them a chill.
Taking skiing equipment on board can cost an arm and a leg in baggage fees. Ryanair have been crowned the worst culprits for this, charging up to £80 to take skis or snowboards on a return flight, rising to £100 if you forget to book your equipment online.
Moneyextra.com recommends you take independent financial advice before acting on any article
Back2012-02-03 15:56:23 © Moneyextra.com
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