When Is The Cheapest Time To Go Skiing?

Overview

Our guide can help those looking for the cheapest time to go skiing, where tightening those purse strings doesn’t have to translate to terrible snow and sub-standard après-ski. Here, you can discover not only the cheapest time of year to ski, but also some of the best resorts that offer excellent snow conditions even outside of those busier (and more expensive) peak months.

We’ll explain exactly when and where to ski for the lowest prices, and include handy month-by-month breakdowns, regional comparisons, cost tables, and practical saving tips that can help discerning skiers enjoy all the best bits of a skiing trip, without completely depleting their bank balances by the end.

With this extensive guide, budget-conscious travellers will know the cheapest times to hit the slopes and how to secure the best value deals.

Ski Prices in December and February

The ski season typically runs from November to April. However, the most popular times of year tend to be around Christmas and during the month of February. The reason is that these coincide with the school holidays and may be the only chance for ski enthusiast families to enjoy the slopes. Unfortunately, if you have school-aged children, this can limit your options to find a cheap skiing holiday.

In addition, December through February also tend to be the months when snow reliability is practically guaranteed. There is nothing worse for the seasoned skier than turning up at their resort to discover that the slopes are slushy and patchy, and there hasn’t been good, reliable snowfall for weeks.

Booking your trip during the most popular months minimises the chances of disappointing snow, which typically means prices increase during this period. At DirectSki, we offer a range of December ski deals and February ski deals for those looking to ski more affordably in the peak months.

Ski Prices in November and January

The early season runs from November to early December, and is a time when bargain hunters can usually find some good skiing deals to encourage people to get out on the slopes early before the Christmas rush.

January, after the New Year, can also be a good time to find a good skiing deal, especially after the school holidays are over. For example, Directski.com ski packages in January can be €200–€400 cheaper than in peak February.

For groups of friends and those who prefer more space on the slopes, these months can be an ideal time to book and to get a decent deal.

Ski Prices in March and April

For those seeking the most affordable time to go skiing, March and April are generally the best options. Outside of the school holidays, and when snowfall can be unreliable in some resorts, prices tend to drop, allowing for those looking for off-peak skiing deals to make impressive savings.

November–December: Early Season Savings

• Pros: Low prices, quiet slopes.
• Cons: Limited snow outside high-altitude resorts.
• Best options: France’s Les Arcs and Italy’s Livigno for snow reliability.

December Ski Deals

January: Best Value Window

• Pros: Cheap packages, good snow, quieter slopes.
• Cons: Shorter days and colder weather.
• Best options: Andorra’s Arinsal and Pal are family favourites, while Austria’s Söll and Zell am See offer affordable variety.

January Ski Deals

February: Peak Prices

• Pros: Guaranteed snow, busy atmosphere.
• Cons: Highest prices of the season.
• Best options: If tied to half-term, consider Andorra, where prices remain lower than in France or Austria.

February Ski Deals

March–April: Late-Season Bargains

• Pros: Longer days, warmer weather, discounted packages.
• Cons: Snow can be softer in lower resorts.
• Best options: Austria’s Mayrhofen, France’s La Rosière, and Italy’s Livigno all hold snow well into spring.

March Ski Deals

Example Price Guide (Directski.com averages)

Andorra

• Cheapest overall, with package prices consistently lower than those in France and Austria.
• Arinsal and Pal: Family-friendly with excellent ski schools.
• Pas de la Casa: Great for younger skiers who want lively après-ski.

Andorra Ski Holidays

Austria

• Wide choice of resorts at different price points.
• Söll and Westendorf: Affordable with traditional alpine charm.
• Zell am See: Good value and scenic lakeside setting.
• Kitzbühel: Premium resort with higher costs.

Austria Ski Holidays

France

• Famous for large ski areas, but also higher prices.
• La Rosière and Les Arcs: More affordable family resorts.
• Méribel and Val Thorens: Popular but peak-season premiums apply.

France Ski Holidays

Italy

• Livigno: Standout for budget skiing, with duty-free shopping that keeps costs low.
• Generally, lift passes and meals are cheaper in Switzerland compared to France and Austria.

Ski Holidays in Italy

Book early

Lots of companies (such as Directski.com!) offer impressive savings if you book your trip early. If you already have your dates locked in, booking earlier can result in more potential savings.

Book last-minute

Conversely, if you aren’t wedded to a particular date, waiting until the last-minute can prove a good money-saving strategy. Resorts want to entice as many people as possible throughout the ski season, so holding off for some last-minute ski deals can be a smart way to make significant savings.

Go midweek

Weekend flight prices tend to be the most expensive, so if you can be flexible around when you fly, you may discover some great bargains. Midweek flight prices can drop dramatically, and if you are willing to depart at a more unsociable hour, you are likely to find an even cheaper deal.

Go off-peak

In short, avoid the school holidays. While we appreciate that this is impossible for some, booking your trip outside the school holidays means you won’t be competing for flights and accommodations in peak season, and you will find it far easier to discover those low prices.

Look for a package deal

Ski packages that include your accommodation, flights, transfers, and check-in luggage may have fewer hidden costs than DIY, and make it easier for you to keep track of your spending.

Choose Self-Catering Accommodation

Hotels with half-board or full-board packages can be convenient, but they also drive up costs. Self-catering apartments give you the freedom to shop locally, cook your own meals, and keep breakfast and lunch costs low. Many resorts have supermarkets within walking distance, and some even stock international brands so you do not need to bring everything from home. Families in particular can save hundreds of euros over a week by avoiding hotel dining.

Pre-Book Equipment Hire Online

Hiring skis, snowboards, and boots on arrival usually means paying the highest rate. Most resorts and operators offer online booking discounts of 20–30%, and you also save time at the rental shop by having your kit reserved in advance. If you are travelling during busy weeks, pre-booking guarantees availability as well as better prices.

Pack Snacks and Lunches

Mountain restaurants are known for stunning views, but also for inflated prices. A burger and chips can easily cost €20, and drinks add up fast. Packing sandwiches, cereal bars, and refillable water bottles means you can ski all day without constantly paying resort markups. Many self-catering apartments provide thermos flasks, which are perfect for taking hot drinks onto the slopes.

Take Advantage of Group Discounts

Most ski resorts offer reduced rates for groups on lift passes, lessons, and even equipment hire. Travelling with friends or extended family makes it easier to qualify for these deals. For lessons, private group sessions often work out cheaper per person than individual tuition, and they can be more enjoyable too.

Explore Free and Low-Cost Activities

Skiing is the main event, but resorts also provide plenty of no-cost entertainment. Sledging areas are usually free to access, and snowshoeing trails let you explore the mountain without a lift pass. Evening events such as torchlit descents, fireworks displays, and live music are often included in resort programmes at no extra charge. These options are especially valuable for families with children who need variety away from the slopes.

Consider Travel and Transfers

Getting to a resort can be one of the more eye-watering expenses of your trip. Just when you think you’ve got everything sorted, there are hiked-up flights and transfers that can sometimes amount to hundreds of pounds each way. The good news is that midweek flights are generally cheaper, and package holidays with transfers included save on taxi or car hire costs. Travelling solo? Consider shared shuttle services, which cost significantly less than private transfers.

Save on Lift Passes

If you are a beginner or plan to ski for only a few days, do not automatically buy a full-area pass. Many resorts offer cheaper beginner or local passes that cover smaller zones. Families with young children should also look for resorts that offer free skiing for under-fives.

Cheap Ski Deals in Europe with Directski.com

At Direct Ski, our mission is, and always has been, to make skiing affordable for *everyone.*

That’s why we run deals throughout the ski season (yes, even in those peak months).

If you want to discover the cheapest skiing packages, take a look at our great deals each month:

Skiing deals in December

Skiing deals in January

Skiing deals in February

Skiing deals in March

When is the cheapest month to ski in Europe?

Generally speaking, the cheapest month to ski in Europe is typically at the end of the ski season, in late March or April. However, you can also find good deals in November and January, so it’s always worth browsing if those are your preferred times to go.

Is January cheaper than March for skiing?

Both January and March can be cheaper than the peak months of December and February. However, January typically offers the lower prices, while March has the benefit of longer days and more time on the slopes!

Which country is the cheapest for skiing in Europe?

Some of the best skiing deals can be found in Italy. Livigno resort in Italy offers some great deals, and Andorra is also a fantastic option offering low prices and exciting skiing terrain.

Can you ski cheaply during school holidays?

The school holidays are the most expensive time of year. However, it is possible to find deals so you can enjoy skiing in the peak months. Family deals are a good option around Easter, and look out for lower prices in regions such as Andorra, which typically undercut France.

How much can you save with a package ski holiday?

Packages with Directski.com can save hundreds compared to DIY bookings, especially once flights and transfers are included.

Summary Table

If you are looking for the cheapest time to go skiing, January and late March are typically the cheapest times. The best value regions can be found in Andorra and Italy. However, you can also discover some excellent packages in Austria and France if you avoid peak weeks.

We believe that everyone who wants to ski should have the opportunity to do so. So if you are ready to ski for less, browse Directski.com’s latest cheap ski deals across Europe and book your next skiing adventure today!