Skiing on a budget – In Italy everything is possible!

September 17th 2008

Skiing can be a notoriously expensive hobby, however there are ways to cut down the cost if you are looking for a budget ski break in Italy next season. Here are just a few ideas from the team at Holiday Homes in Italy...

1. Book early

There is a false impression that leaving it to the last minute will bring you an excellent deal. Italian ski resorts notoriously stick to advertised prices and cheap airline prices often rocket close to the departure date. If you book early, not only are you more likely to secure the desired resort and accommodation but also benefit from reasonable flights and early bird booking discounts:

2. Avoid peak season

Christmas, New Year and half term (mid February) are the most popular dates to be on the slopes. Mid December, January and March - April are the best times to go if you’re looking for a cheap deal.

3. Stay self-catering

Holiday Homes in Italy obviously specialise in self-catering accommodation (although we do offer the odd B&B and hotel) but staying in a self-catering apartment not only gives you flexibility but also the possibility to spend the odd relaxed night in, saving not only on bars but also expensive restaurants. Most resorts have a good supermarket to stock up on supplies and reasonable Italian wine!

4. Get bargain ski wear

Ski wear is notoriously expensive but with the demise of C&A a few years ago, there was a gaping hole in the bargain ski wear department. This season looks set to put that straight with some great affordable ski wear in H&M and Primark to join the existing Matalan. Also try e-bay, which is great for not only suits but also skis and boots, which will save you on the hire when in resort.

5. Go somewhere different

Steer clear of the well known resorts in Italian skiing in the Milky Way and Sella Ronda and try little known areas such Prato Nevoso in Piemonte, Bardonaecchia in Piemonte, Marrileva in Trentino and Predazzo in Trentino.

7. Buy a local SIM card

Using an English mobile can be a lot more costly than in the UK. You can buy a local SIM card in the airport or resort, which will ensure that local and international calls are more reasonable.

8. Buy currency beforehand

With the euro fluctuating this year, it is advisable to buy currency in advance when it is at a high point rather than obtaining an unfavourable rate through a cash point in the resort. Specialist currency companies like Moneycorp and M&S are offering better rates than your local bank, which is often the obvious choice.

Here are are pick of the crop for this seasons bargain ski properties