As we transition into the autumn and winter months, many are starting to think about their next ski holiday. With the colder weather approaching, it’s no surprise that more people are looking to escape to the mountains for some winter fun. In fact, searches for ‘ski holiday’ have increased by 86% in the past quarter.
To help those starting to plan their next winter holiday, we have compiled valuable advice from seasoned skiers and an experienced ski holiday travel agent, Travel Club Elite. These include insights on the best time to book a ski holiday, when to travel for the best deals, and which resorts to consider.
But first, if you’re looking to book your ski holiday, don’t forget to get your winter sports travel insurance in place too.
When is the best time to book your ski holiday?
Let’s start by saying there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best time to book.
When planning a ski holiday, timing is everything. Whether you’re an early planner or prefer the spontaneity of last-minute bookings, each approach has its advantages.
Booking early offers peace of mind, securing the best deals, accommodation and flights. Whilst last-minute bookings allow for flexibility and the opportunity to take advantage of favourable snow conditions and potential discounts. Let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Booking early
Booking your ski holiday early is generally always recommended. It also gives you plenty of time to sort out your travel plans and budget, plus it helps you get the most out of your holiday experience.
Popular peak dates fill up fast, so if you jump on it early, you can lock in the best accommodation, activities and dining spots. This way, you can focus on enjoying the slopes without the stress of last-minute planning.
But how early should you actually book?
Zoe Franklin, Sales Manager of Travel Club Elite and a travel expert with over 38 years of experience, comments:
“Booking your ski holiday early is no longer optional—it’s becoming essential. Many Ski programmes launch in December and January, for the next winter. Early birds secure the best deals, including discounts, free group places, and complimentary equipment hire. If you wait to the last minute, you risk missing out on these perks.
“Despite some people booking early, the findings of a recent survey presented by the Ski Club of Great Britain suggest that 71% of skiers are booking 3+ months before.”
She added that early booking guarantees the widest range of options. Most convenient flights, premium ski-in, ski-out locations, luxury chalets, and family-friendly accommodations are usually the first to go. Also, families seeking interconnecting rooms or kids’ clubs must act fast as these sell out months in advance.
2. Booking last-minute
However, another approach that some skiers are choosing is last-minute booking. If you have flexibility in your schedule, this could be a good option. We analysed posts on Reddit to find out the best tips from seasoned skiers. Many find that booking a week or two in advance allows them to secure the best snow conditions, as they can monitor the weather and slopes before committing.
One Reddit user mentioned, “I book a week or maybe two in advance—I like to hunt for the likely best conditions.” This strategy not only offers the potential for better snow but also allows skiers to take advantage of last-minute deals on accommodations and lift passes, which can often result in significant savings.
Ultimately, whether you choose to book last-minute or way in advance, the key is to stay informed about the conditions and available offers and choose an approach that is best fitted for you. This way, you can make the most of your ski holiday experience, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable trip on the slopes.
