Save Big on Your Winter Family Vacation

If you are planning a skiing vacation and you don't have a lot of your own equipment for the family, there are a few ways you can save money on the trip. You don't have to buy all new equipment, or wait until you get there to get the items you need.

You can save money on food, lodging and more when you plan out the trip carefully. Here are a few things to consider.

Rent Skis, Boots, or Boards

Rent your equipment from somewhere other than the resort where you will be skiing. Since this is the easiest way to get the equipment, and because it's the least amount of hassle, people often pay high prices to rent items at resorts.

Instead, check out other equipment shops in the area around the resort, or even look in your area before you leave town. This could save you a lot of money over the course of the trip, even it if means you have to haul the items.

Buy Gift Cards

Do you know you are going to be driving and spending money on gas, or eating at fast food restaurants? There are many buy and swap sites that allow you to buy and sell gift cards for less than their value. The savings will add up quickly with these cards.

Stay off the Resort

Many people think that staying at a ski resort is worth the high cost because they get ski passes, or because they don't have to drive for. Break down the cost of the passes and look at the price for local hotels, to see how much money you could save. This could be hundreds of dollars if the resort doesn't include lift tickets with their hotel stay. You also may not want to ski all day, so you'll be glad you didn't pay a high price to have a day and evening access to the hills.

If you want to take your family or get away and ski or do other winter weather sports, you don't have to worry about spending a small fortune. Planning ahead, even in the summer, allows you to find great deals on hotels, equipment, and other details for the trip, so you can enjoy yourself and not worry about money when it comes time to take your vacation. Find out what sizes you need for equipment and start planning. Start with rentals at companies like Rebel Sports Frisco.