Skiing Made Easy - Part 2: Is Skiing/Boarding Expensive?
Is this an expensive hobby? Well, it’s certainly more expensive than knitting or running. But as with all things, you can pay a little or a lot. You might compare a week in Romania skiing with a week in Japan, and you will guess that there’s a clear difference.
Overall, if you choose carefully, you’ll find a great value ski trip. Here’s one we’ve costed up from start to finish for Borovets, Bulgaria.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
Ski package |
£350 (3* half board, Jan) |
| Flight | Included |
| Transfer | Included |
| Accommodation | Included |
| Meals | Half Board Included |
| Local Rep Service | Included |
| Lift Pass/Tuition/Equipment | £202 |
| Helmet Hire | £15 |
| Lunch | £60 (come off the mountain for lunch!) |
| Insurance | £35 |
TOTAL COST |
£662 or £94 per day. |
Ski Carriage |
£30 |
Here are our top tips for keeping your spending as low as possible.
Bear in mind what you might spend in resort, and head for a non-euro destination. In addition, there are benefits of pre-booking half board meals and as many extras as you can to ensure you can manage your budget and avoid unexpected spending. The Balkans are the obvious choice for an inexpensive holiday. Not only are the packages cheaper than the Alps, in resort you’ll pay much less for food and drink.
What’s expensive?
If you choose to eat high up on the mountain every lunchtime, you will pay over the odds. Best to go prepared with a sandwich you can eat when you take a break or descend down for a cheaper lunch.
If you plump for designer kit, like Spyder or Arcteryx, you’ll be snug and dry and you’ll shell out plenty for it. Find mid-range value gear which won’t let you down at Decathlon or TK Maxx. Even Aldi brought out a ski range last year – worth a look.
What can I skimp on?
You don’t need top of the range kit – neither skis/board or clothing. Choose a resort which is known for good value. Typically, a Balkan resort is a great choice, avoid France and Italy. Definitely borrow clothing.
What is worth spending good money on?
Decent socks and gloves will last you forever.
For socks, try these brands – Falke & Wigwam.
For gloves, try Hestra for a pair which will last a lifetime.
Once you’re sure you’re into the sport, buying your own boots, custom-fit to your own specification is key. You’ll need half a day with a professional boot-fitter to find the right pair for you. We recommend Snow&Rock, Ellis Brigham, or Profeet for those in south west London. This is best done when you have plenty of time and patience. Custom insoles can be made for you to tailor your boot specifically to your feet.
Further information, see our website or call our ski experts on 0207 543 5555.
