The 2014/2015 ski and snowboard season is upon us! As is typical, Arapahoe Basin in Summit County, was the very first resort open for this season. On October 17, the line for the very first chair to carry anxious snowsports enthusiasts was backed up nearly to the lodge. Now that we’ve moved beyond our first week of rideable terrain, Colorado resorts are busy trying to cover their slopes, so that everyone can come and enjoy all of the fun that is offered here! In case a little motivation is what you need, here are 6 reasons to book your ski vacation early.
Lodging Deals and Availability
Set on staying at Beaver Creek, or really wanting Main St access by staying in Breckenridge? Book sooner rather than later for the best deals and your choice for the perfect hotel, condo or bed and breakfast. With events such as the World Cup coming to the area, there is an expected shortage of lodging and housing available. Check out sites such as AirBnB, VRBO, and the sites of the particular resort you would like to visit for the best lodging deals. Breckenridge airport shuttle times are filling fast so book now to secure your spot!
Ski Pass Savings
If your group or family is planning to ski more than three days, depending on the location, you may want to consider buying a season pass. With the lowest prices guaranteed early in the summer, that is honestly the best time to buy. Even though we’ve said our goodbyes to summer, there are still some great season pass deals to be had. Copper Mountain and Vail Resorts both have their season passes on sale, currently. In some cases your lodging can include a few tickets, but if not and without a pass, you may be spending a pretty penny on daily lift tickets. Hurry though, season passes and bulk ticket sales are only available into the early season.
Ski Rentals
Often times, when a hotel is booked at a resort, there may be an allowance for free ski rentals. Check out your resorts lodging page for the most accurate and up to date information. If ski rentals aren’t included, don’t fret. Many local ski shops offer discounts for multi-day equipment rentals. Places like Christy Sports, Breck Sports, Vail Sports, Alpine Sports and Copper Sports are all places that may have these deals, so be sure to check them out!
Airfare Deals
Everyone knows that the earlier one books their flight, the cheaper the price will be. Many airlines are offering early booking specials for the upcoming 2014/2015 winter vacation season. These could include reduced fare, deals on rentals or vacation lodging or even discounted rental vehicles. Either way, it is wise to go directly to the website of the airline of your choice and check out any and all specials that are available.
Transportation
Traveling to the mountains can be rather tricky. There are the unknown variables of traffic and weather that can throw the biggest of monkey wrenchs into your plans. Know before you go, is the motto here. If you’ve never driven in the Colorado winter, leave the driving to Peak 1 Express and save all of the worrying for what kind of food to eat, where to go out on the town and when to go to sleep so you can get first chair! We are currently offering some early shuttle booking discounts, so check those out for savings. If you’re daring enough to brave the unpredictable Colorado weather and drive, there are many airport car rental places to choose from, but as this is the peak season for car rentals, the deals may be disappearing soon.