That's La Plagne
From Slopes to Savings: A Pro's Guide to Finding the Best and Cheapest Ski Holiday Flights
If you share my passion for skiing, you already understand the magnetic pull of those untouched slopes and exhilarating snowy escapades. But what elevates the thrill of a ski getaway even further? Knowing that you’ve found and booked the best and cheapest ski holiday options for your family – and that includes ski holiday flights.
In this blog, I'm here to divulge my insider knowledge of the family ski holiday industry to help you find the right – i.e. best and cheapest flights – for your next family ski holiday. So, whether you're planning your first ski trip or a long-time snow aficionado seeking wallet-conscious choices, let's embark on this journey together to unveil the art of discovering economical flights.
Join behind the scenes today and get the insider scoop
The importance of budget-friendly flights
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of flight hunting, let's talk about why it's essential to find the best flight deals. Ski holidays are all about having fun and creating lasting memories on the slopes. However, the costs can add up quickly – from ski passes and equipment rentals to cosy chalets and mouth watering fondue dinners.
That's where affordable flights come into play. Whether you’re a budget conscious skier or booking a luxurious break, it’s still sensible to source the most reasonably priced ski holiday flights. Especially with the current cost of living crisis. By keeping your travel costs in check, you can allocate more of your budget to the activities that truly matter and make your ski trip unforgettable: from ski lessons to après ski!
Plus, who doesn't get a thrill from scoring a fantastic deal? I know I do!
Know before you go: planning your ski holiday
Now, let's lay the groundwork for your ski adventure. Planning is key, and there are a few crucial steps you should take before you even start searching for flights.
Setting your ski holiday budget
Before you begin dreaming of skiing down the Alps or exploring the Rockies, you need to determine how much you're willing to spend. Consider all the factors, from flights and accommodations to ski passes and après-ski entertainment.
Determining your travel dates
The flexibility of your travel dates can significantly impact the cost of your flights. Ski resorts often have peak and off-peak seasons, and flight prices can vary by hundreds of pounds. So keep that in mind when deciding when to jet off.
Choosing the right ski resort
Since we're talking family ski holidays, make sure to choose a resort that caters to all skill levels. There's nothing worse than booking a flight to a resort that's too advanced for your little ones or too dull for the experts in your group. Or vice versa, choosing a family ski resort and then finding out there are no flights available for your chosen dates or route.
Pro tips for snagging cheap ski holiday flights
Now that we've set the stage, it's time to get into the juicy details of finding those wallet-friendly flights. Here are some pro tips that have never failed me:
Cheap ski flights: booking well in advance
The early bird catches the worm, or in this case, the flight deal. Airlines often release their schedules and fares up to a year in advance. By booking early, you can secure significant discounts. My dad will wait for the EasyJet and Jet2 ski holiday flights to be released each autumn and then book all his flights for the coming winter – and yes, he does visit up to 4 times a winter – living in a ski resort makes me a popular holiday destination!
Cheap ski flights: using fare comparison websites
Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak are your best friends. They aggregate flight options from various airlines and travel agencies, allowing you to compare prices efficiently. I always start my flight search with SkyScanner because it’s easy to assume that Jet2 ski flights, or EasyJet routes are the cheapest. But this is not always the case and heading directly to those websites rules out other ski flight deals you may miss out on.
Cheap ski flights: signing up for fare alerts
Don't have the time to check flight prices every day? No worries! Sign up for fare alerts on your favorite travel websites, and they'll notify you when prices drop. By be careful – this is addictive and I have been guilty of setting price alerts for ski holidays and tropical summer destinations as well!
Cheap ski flights: being flexible with airports
If you live in a region with multiple airports, consider flying from a different one than your local one. Sometimes, this small change can result in significant savings. It might mean an extra 30 minutes in the car, but could save you £££.
Cheap ski flights: considering package deals
Post Brexit and Covid, it is less common to find ski holiday providers that include flights in their ski holiday packages. However, package deals that bundle flights and accommodations can be cost-effective. Check with ski resorts or tour operators for exclusive offers. Some companies that do still offer this are:
Cheap ski flights: airline loyalty programs and frequent flyer miles
If you're planning to make skiing a regular part of your family's life (and why wouldn't you?), it's worth delving into airline loyalty programs and frequent flyer miles. These programs offer a host of benefits, from priority boarding to free checked bags. Plus, you can earn miles that can be used for future ski trips.
Strategies for maximizing rewards include strategically using credit cards that earn miles, flying with the same airline whenever possible, and planning future ski trips around your accumulated miles.
Trust me; done right, it's a game-changer. But I would always caution about using credit cards and signing up to loyalty programs to make sure that you don’t accumulate unwanted debt. Always keep track of your spending and settle any outstanding balances immediately when using travel cards to accrue air miles and loyalty points.
Read more about the beginner basics of ski holiday travel hacking.
Cheap ski flights: navigating peak vs. off-peak seasons
Now, let's tackle the issue of timing. Ski destinations can vary dramatically in price depending on the season. Peak seasons, like Christmas and New Year's, but mainly February ½ term, can be costly. While off-peak times, such as early January or late March, often offer more budget-friendly options.
If you're set on skiing during peak times, there are still ways to save. Flexibility whenever possible, meticulous planning, and booking your flights well in advance can help you secure deals even during the busiest weeks on the slopes.
Cheap ski flights: travel light
Okay, now that we've covered the logistics of getting there, let's talk about what to pack and how to prepare. Whilst this is a separate ski holiday issue in its own right, it is also part of planning your ski flights effectively to accommodate ski bags and additional luggage.
Packing for a family ski trip can be a challenge, but with a little organisation, you can ensure not only that everyone is warm and comfortable, but also that you don’t get stung for extra luggage when you arrive at the airport. Get my ski holiday packing checklists here.
Cheap ski flights: ski holiday travel insurance
Finally, don't forget about travel insurance. While it may seem like an extra expense, it's essential for peace of mind. It can cover unexpected events like flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies, which can be real game-changers on your ski holiday. Ski holiday insurance should be the most important thing in your ski bag.
That’s La Plagne and how to find the cheapest ski flights
Finding the best and cheapest ski holiday flights for your family is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By setting a budget, being flexible with your travel dates, and using the right tools and strategies, you can make your ski dreams come true without emptying your wallet.
I hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for your upcoming ski adventure. Remember, the slopes are waiting, and with the right flight deal in hand, your family can experience the thrill of the mountains without a care in the world.
So, gear up, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable ski holiday. And stay tuned for more tips and advice on making the most of your ski adventures in the future.
See you on the slopes!
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