That's La Plagne
6 Steps to Finding the Best Private Ski Transfer for Your Ski Holiday
You’ve booked your ski holiday. Unless it’s a package family ski holiday, it’s unlikely your travel and ski transfers are included. Don’t worry! With this top guide, you’ve got all the tools to find the best ski transfer company.
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How to find the cheapest private ski transfers
I know the excitement of planning a family ski holiday to a beautiful French resort is unbeatable. But wait, have you thought about how you'll get from the airport to the slopes? Unless you've opted for a package deal, ski transfers aren't usually included in your booking. Fret not, I'm here to guide you through the process of finding the perfect private ski transfer to make your vacation memorable and hassle-free.
The following 6 steps are great to follow to book the right family ski transfer. But they are also important questions to ask yourself before you commit to a ski chalet, book ski flights or plan anything else. I’ve had so many clients book cheap ski flights, only to find that there are no available transfers to their ski resort. So make sure to ask yourself the following questions to find the best and cheapest private ski transfers this winter.
Step 1: What resort are you heading to and which airport are you flying into?
Choosing the right resort and airport is the first crucial step in securing a budget-friendly ski transfer. France boasts a huge variety of stunning ski destinations, all accessible from different popular airports. But your choice of airport will significantly affect your ski transfer costs. For instance, if you're heading to the popular French Alps, Geneva Airport, Grenoble Airport or Lyon Airport might be your best options. However, there are very few private ski transfer options between Lyon Airport and the Tarentaise Valley ski resorts (Three Valleys, La Plagne, Les Arcs, Espace Killey). However, if you book into Geneva, you will find you have the largest selection of private airport transfer companies to compare and choose from.
Always keep in mind the distance between your chosen resort and the airport.
Step 2: What arrival/departure days are you looking at?
Timing is everything when it comes to securing the most affordable ski transfers. If flexibility is an option, try to avoid travelling on Saturdays. This is a peak day for ski holiday makers to arrive and depart their ski resorts, which often results in higher prices, higher demand and less availability. Additionally, steer clear of peak ski holiday weeks if you're on the hunt for budget-friendly options. Planning your travel during off-peak periods can help you save a bundle.
Find out more in this article about what to expect from different ski weeks and when the peak European ski weeks are.
Step 3: Plan your passenger numbers wisely
Now, let's talk about passenger numbers. It might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes, travelling with a larger group can be cost-effective. Most private ski transfer companies operate mini buses with eight seats, and the price for two people or eight people can be surprisingly similar. So, consider inviting friends or family along to share the ride and expenses.
JENS TOP TIP: If you are travelling in a smaller group, ask your Tour Operator or ski chalet company if there are other bookings arriving at similar times and see if you can group together your private ski transfer and share the costs with another family.
Step 4: Use a price comparison site like Ski-Lifts
The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding great ski transfer deals. Websites like Ski Lifts allow you to compare prices from multiple providers, giving you a comprehensive view of your options. This way, you can ensure you're getting the best value for your money.
Regardless of what element of travel I am looking at, I always start with a comparison site:
- Skyscanner = flights
- Rail Europe = trains
- Car Hire = DiscoverCars
- Ski-Lifts = ski transfers!
And so on. I will always double-check directly on the supplier website, but I have yet to find a time when the price on, e.g., EasyJet, has been less than listed on Skyscanner.
Step 5: Look for local ski transfer companies
For a more personalised experience and often better prices, consider local ski transfer companies. To find them, join Facebook groups related to your chosen resort or do a simple Google search. You can also check out review sites for local ski transfer companies with good reputations. Reading reviews from fellow skiers can provide valuable insights into the quality of service you can expect.
JENS TOP TIP: If you are heading to La Plagne, check out the That’s La Plagne Ski Transfer Directory for all the best ski transfer options.
Step 6: Is your vehicle optimised for ski transfers?
Safety and convenience are paramount when travelling to a snowy destination. Before booking your transfer, ensure that the vehicle is equipped for winter conditions. Check if it can carry skis and snowboards and if it's equipped with winter tires and snow chains. These details might seem minor, but they can make a world of difference in your journey.
JENS TOP TIP: If it’s a family ski holiday, make sure to request car seats in advance. Most ski transfer companies will have them, but they will need to know 24 hours – 7 days ahead of your booking.
That’s La Plagne and 6 steps to finding the cheapest private ski transfers
Planning the best private ski transfer for your family ski holiday is a breeze when you follow these six simple steps. First, choose your resort and airport wisely. Then, be mindful of your travel dates to avoid peak periods. Consider group travel for potential savings and use price comparison sites to your advantage. Don't forget to explore local ski transfer companies and read reviews for peace of mind.
Lastly, ensure your chosen vehicle is winter-ready, and if you're travelling with children, remember to request car seats in advance. Armed with this knowledge, you're well on your way to a fantastic and cost-effective ski holiday in the French Alps.
Happy skiing, and I’ll see you on the slopes!
For more reading about ski holiday transfers, check out my most popular articles.
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