How Much Does It Cost To Go Skiing? A Complete Breakdown

Ever wondered how much it costs to go skiing? Well, you’re in the right place! As skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, we’ve been to the mountains more times than we can count, whether it’s just for a day or an entire week.

We’ve pretty much tried it all, and we want to share the lowdown on what you can expect to spend when you go skiing. So, let’s get into the details below.

So, how much does it cost to go skiing?

For one day of skiing, you can typically expect to spend around $340. But, it all boils down to a few factors, and we’ll break them down for you below.

Just remember, the specifics can vary based on where you’re heading and how long you plan to ski or snowboard.

Key Factors Affecting The Cost Of Skiing

Planning a ski trip involves several key factors that influence the overall cost. Below I have pinpointed each one to give you more insight into the expected cost of things like ski clothing, travel costs, day passes, and more. Continue reading as I dive into all the details.

1. Skiing Equipment

The cost of skiing equipment stands out as one of the most significant expenses when calculating the overall expenses of a skiing adventure. It mainly comes down to whether you want to rent or own equipment.

Most people who are new to skiing often go for renting their gear, so that’s what I’ll mainly focus on.

2. Equipment Rentals

When it comes to skiing, think about whether you want to rent gear. Prices change based on the gear’s quality and type.

Renting from a local shop or the resort itself can cost differently. If you go for a local shop, it’s usually a bit cheaper than resort rentals. For affordable ski rentals, you can usually find prices at around $48. This typically covers your skis or snowboard, boots, and bindings.

Mid-range equipment, which often includes better brands and possibly newer gear, the average price is around $72. If you opt for luxury rentals with top-of-the-line brands and the latest gear, the cost is typically around $95.

You’ll also need to consider how long you plan on renting your gear for. I started by renting gear when I tried skiing for the first few times. I totally suggest it because it lets you check if you really like skiing before spending a lot on your gear.

3. Own Gear

If you have your gear, you skip rental fees but pay a chunk upfront. You’ll need to buy a ski or board, bindings, boots, and poles if you’re into skiing. 

I’d say get your gear once you’re sure you love skiing. It’s an upfront cost, but it saves money in the long run. For adults, the gear can last for years, maybe even a whole decade.

4. Lift Ticket Prices

Lift tickets play a major role in your skiing budget. If you’re thinking of heading to a well-known resort, be prepared to spend more compared to a local ski hill. 

It’s essential to think about how many days you’ll be getting lift tickets for as well. The more days you plan on skiing, the more expensive the ski trip cost will be. 

Additionally, exploring options like a season pass, or passes like the Ikon Pass or Epic Pass, can be worthwhile, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple renowned resorts during the ski season.

After looking into several East Coast local ski resorts, I found that the average ticket price was about $63. Medium-sized resorts tended to have an average ski lift ticket price of around $72.

Having visited more luxurious resorts like Winter Park, Palisades Tahoe, and Beaver Creek, I’ve noticed that lift tickets can reach $200 or more. To save money on lift passes, consider options like getting a season pass or checking the resort’s website for special discounts.

5. Clothing

To have a good time skiing, wearing the right clothes is super important. Quality winter gear might cost a bit more at the start, but it’s totally worth it for the comfort and how long it lasts. 

Not many people rent clothes for skiing, most folks prefer getting their own winter jacket, ski pants, and base layers for a personalized and comfy feel. 

When purchasing used gear, you can usually get all your clothing for approximately $150. Opting for mid-range gear typically costs around $300. If you’re inclined to invest in high-end brands like Helly Hansen, North Face, Burton, and others, be prepared to spend around, or even more than, $1000.

Sam and I began our skiing and snowboarding journey by getting second-hand gear. We searched for deals during sales and on websites like Backcountry. We also got some gear from friends and family. 

We recommend starting this way until you’re sure you love the sport. As you get more into it, you can think about upgrading to mid-range or even fancy brands if you know you’ll use the gear for a long time.

6. Food

Eating on the slopes can add up, so it’s essential to budget for meals. Many resorts offer dining options, but bringing snacks, a packed lunch, or eating outside of the ski resort can help cut down on daily food expenses.

For budget-conscious options, you could have a meal at the resort for about $10. If you’re looking for something mid-range, plan to spend around $25. If you want to indulge in a fancier entree and go all out, you might spend $50.

We usually bring our snacks and lunches when we go skiing a lot in the winter. It helps save money because things can get expensive. But, every now and then, we like to have a tasty lunch on the mountain. Most ski resorts have great chili, and some even serve delicious pizza or burgers.

7. Ski Lessons

For beginners, ski lessons are often necessary. Research lesson prices and consider group lessons, private lessons, or package deals to make the most of your budget while gaining valuable skills.

I checked out a few resorts to see how much ski lessons cost in 2024. At smaller resorts, group lessons are around $59. For mid-range resorts, group lessons cost $144, and at luxury resorts, you can expect to pay $355 or even more.

While ski lessons can be pricey, we still suggest them because they’re often the fastest way to learn the sport and improve as a skier or snowboarder.

8. Time Of Year

The timing of your skiing trip affects costs. High season typically means higher prices for accommodation, lift tickets, and other services. Planning your visit during the off-peak season can result in significant savings.

Usually, the busiest time for skiing is from January to March. However, peak dates are also when holidays occur. Some holidays to be mindful of include Christmas, New Years, MLK, and Presidents’ Day. 

If you choose to hit the slopes for spring skiing or in the early months when the resorts start getting snow in December, it’s likely to be less expensive.

9. Transportation

How you get to the ski resort impacts your budget and the cost of transportation varies significantly depending on what type of travel you plan on doing.

Driving might save on transportation costs, but you’ll need to consider how much parking is at the resort. Also, if flying is necessary, you’ll need to take that cost into consideration.

Some other options you could take also include a shuttle or public transportation options. If you opt for the bus, it usually comes to about $10. For your vehicle’s gas and parking, you might spend around $50. If you go for private transportation, be prepared to spend $200 or more.

10. Which Ski Resort You Plan To Visit

The choices for ski resorts seem limitless. You can explore renowned spots like Park City, Vail Resorts, Whistler Blackcomb, or opt for a lesser-known local gem known only to locals. 

We’ve experienced both, and they offer distinct vibes. While major resorts usually boast superior amenities and conditions, local spots are budget-friendly and offer fewer crowds. 

Generally, you’ll find that large ski resorts tend to be pricier compared to smaller, local ski areas.

Ways to Cut Costs On Your Skiing Adventure

There are a handful of different ways that you can cut costs while skiing or snowboarding.

• Off-Peak Travel: Opt for less busy times to secure better deals on accommodation and lift tickets.
• Bundle Packages: Some resorts offer package deals that include lift tickets, accommodation, and even equipment rentals for a discounted price.
• Bring Your Own Food: Bringing your snacks and meals can save money on expensive resort dining.
• Group Discounts: If traveling with friends or family, inquire about group discounts on accommodations, lessons, or equipment rentals.
• Get Your Lift Ticket In Advance: Rather than purchasing your lift ticket at the ticket office, check the ski resort website in advance for a special offer or great deals.
• Consider Taking The Bus Or Riding With A Friend: Using your own car to go to the resort may not seem pricey at first, but gas and parking costs can add up. Think about taking the bus or sharing a ride with a friend to save on these extra expenses.
• Buy Used Gear: If you’re thinking of buying ski boots, skis, snow pants, or other pieces of equipment, think about getting used gear. You can find great prices, and you’ll get equipment at a fraction of the cost than buying new.

FAQs About How Much Does It Cost To Go Skiing

Below I have answered a few frequently asked questions about how much you can expect to spend to go skiing. 

How much is an average ski trip?

On average, a moderate ski trip can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. The average cost of a ski trip varies widely based on factors such as destination, accommodation, and personal spending habits.

What is the actual cost of going skiing?

The actual cost of going skiing is $340 on the budget end and $1,900 on the luxury end.

Is skiing an expensive sport?

Skiing is an expensive sport. You will spend a few hundred dollars to start. The upside is, if you buy your own gear, it can last for many years, possibly even a decade. So, if you really enjoy skiing, the long-term investment isn’t too bad.

How much is a week of skiing?

The cost of a week of skiing starts at a few hundred dollars but could be a few thousand. It varies widely and depends on the destination, type of accommodation, chosen amenities, and personal spending habits.

What is the cheapest month to go skiing?

The cheapest month to go skiing is early December or late April. The cheapest time to go skiing is usually during the off-peak season when resorts offer lower prices on accommodation and lift tickets. This often occurs in the early or late part of the ski season, excluding holiday periods.

Final Thoughts: How Much Does It Cost To Go Skiing?

Whether you go for budget-friendly options like renting or decide to splurge a bit, planning ahead can make your skiing experience better.

Look for discounts, season passes, and used gear to save money without missing out on the fun. Whether you’re a pro skier or trying it out for the first time, finding the right balance between cost and enjoyment ensures a great time on the slopes.