Introduction
Winter is here, and it is the best time to hit the slopes for some snowboarding action. However, the cost of snowboarding equipment, lift tickets, and lodging can make it an expensive hobby. But fear not as there are several budget-friendly snowboarding hacks that you can use to save money while still having an ultimate ski slope experience.
In this blog post, we will explore the ultimate ski slope secret – budget-friendly snowboarding hacks. We will provide a detailed section for each hack, explaining how you can save money without sacrificing the fun. So, if you want to hit the slopes without breaking the bank, keep reading.
Table of Contents
1. Renting vs. Buying Snowboarding Equipment
2. Booking Lodging Outside the Ski Resort
3. Share Ride and Split Gas Expense
4. Pack Your Lunch and Bring Your Own Snacks
5. Purchase Lift Tickets in Advance
6. Rent Your Winter Clothing
1. Renting vs. Buying Snowboarding Equipment
One of the most significant expenses of snowboarding is the equipment. Snowboards, boots, bindings, jackets, and pants can add up to a significant amount of money. However, you can save money by renting vs. buying snowboarding equipment.
Renting equipment can save you money, especially if you are a beginner snowboarder or only hit the slopes once a year. Renting equipment allows you to try different brands and styles before spending money on something you may not like or need.
Additionally, renting equipment allows you to avoid the hassle of packing and transporting your equipment to the ski resort. Renting equipment means you will not have to worry about maintenance, storage and you do not have to invest in expensive equipment that may not fit in with your activities in everyday life.
2. Booking Lodging Outside the Ski Resort
Now that you have your equipment rented, let’s discuss lodging. Here’s the ultimate ski slope secret – booking lodging outside the ski resort.
Staying outside the ski resort can save you a lot of money. Ski resort accommodations can be expensive and often sell out quickly. Avoid the crowds and save money by booking lodging outside the ski resort. Often, hotels and lodges a few miles away usually offer a free shuttle service to and from the slopes, allowing you to save money on transportation as well.
Furthermore, you can find great deals on lodging if you are willing to get creative. Airbnb, besides renting out rooms, offers an option to lodge an entire house or apartment that is usually cost-effective.
3. Share Ride and Split Gas Expense
Let’s talk about transportation. Riding with friends to the ski resort instead of driving solo can save you money on gas and parking, as more people sharing rides also means less stress on the vehicle.
Carpooling is an excellent option if you live close to other snowboarding enthusiasts. You can split the cost of gas, parking, and insurance among friends to reduce the overall transportation cost, however, observe the COVID-19 guidance of the respective state.
Similarly, you can always check for ride-share applications like Uber and Lyft for the best deals.
4. Pack Your Lunch and Bring Your Own Snacks
Food can be very expensive at ski resorts, with costs for lunch, snacks, and beverages quickly adding up throughout the day. As such, one of the ultimate ski slope secrets is packing your lunch and bringing your snacks.
Bringing your food can be a great way to save money. You can make sandwiches, pack fruits, and vegetable snacks. Additionally, if you have a ski locker, you can pack a cooler with drinks and eat in the cafeteria or rent a picnic table to enjoy your homemade meal.
5. Purchase Lift Tickets in Advance
As with many things travel-related, purchasing lift tickets in advance can save you money. It’s not uncommon for resorts to offer discounts on lift tickets when purchased ahead of time. Additionally, purchasing multi-day tickets can also save you money by providing access to slopes for several days, thus making the ticket cost per day more cost-effective.
6. Rent Your Winter Clothing
Lastly, let’s discuss winter clothing. If you are new to skiing or snowboarding or do not live in a place with a cold winter climate, renting your winter clothing is an excellent option. While not inexpensive, it is still cheaper than buying all the winter clothing needed for a skiing or snowboarding trip. Plus, renting save space in your luggage.
Renting winter clothing allows you to avoid the cost and hassle of purchasing and transporting winter clothing. Additionally, your winter clothing also receives little use outside of skiing/snowboarding, making its purchase a questionable investment.
Conclusion
These budget-friendly snowboarding hacks may not be groundbreaking, but they can make a big impact on your wallet without sacrificing any fun and thrilling experiences at the slope. Renting equipment vs. buying, booking accommodations outside the resort, ride-sharing, packing your lunch and snacks, purchasing lift tickets in advance, and renting winter clothing are all great ways to save money on your next snowboarding trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is skiing or snowboarding more expensive?
A: It is difficult to compare the costs of skiing vs. snowboarding as the cost is dependent upon several factors, each catering to individual needs.
Q: What are other ways to save money on a snowboarding trip?
A: The mentioned hacks are not exhaustive. However, purchasing season passes, skiing towards the end of the season, and participating in group activities, as well as others, may also aid in cutting down costs.
Q: What equipment is necessary to go snowboarding?
A: Mainly, you need a snowboard, bindings, boots, helmet, and winter clothing to go snowboarding. Some optional equipment includes pads, goggles, and gloves.
Q: Can I bring my food and drinks into the resort?
A: While rules vary between resorts, pack your lunch and snacks are allowed in most cases. Be sure to check with the resort, its facilities, and any COVID-19 related restrictions for confirmation.
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