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A-frame cabin with glass walls in a snowy forest, showcased by Vrbo as an ideal vacation rental for a serene mountain getaway.

Vrbo’s Key to Ski: How to plan a ski trip

Here’s what you need to know about planning a trip to the mountains and this season’s top ski destinations in Canada*.

Expert travel tips for planning the perfect ski trip


  1. Book your ski trip at least two months ahead. Demand for ski cabins and chalets is already up this year, and homes near the slopes with popular amenities get reserved first. Select homes on Vrbo also offer discounts to guests who book over 60 days in advance. Plus, lift ticket pricing is dynamic, often favouring advanced reservations.
  2. Avoid peak periods to escape the crowds. Christmas week and Family Day weekend are the busiest times for ski trips, and demand for vacation homes this holiday season is already on the rise.
  3. Stay close to the slopes, villages, or shuttle routes. Ski-in/ski-out accommodations are the most convenient, but many mountain resorts and villages offer free shuttles to and from the lifts, so you don’t have to worry about driving.
  4. Score savings with a discounted stay. Many vacation rentals on Vrbo offer discounts for different types of trips such as weeklong stays, last-minute stays, or early bookings.
  5. Consider turning your ski vacation into a European vacation. Average rates for lift tickets and vacation homes are generally lower in Europe. 

Plan your ski trip

Frequently asked questions


How do I plan a ski trip?

Start by choosing your destination and setting your budget. Book accommodations and lift tickets early. Vrbo offers a wide range of ski-in/ski-out chalets and condos. Lastly, plan transportation, activities, and rent or buy your skiing and snowboarding gear.

When is the best time to book a ski trip?

At least two months in advance. Homes near the slopes and popular amenities such as hot tubs, saunas and equipment storage get reserved first. Early bookings often unlock discounts on Vrbo and better lift ticket pricing.

What are the benefits of booking a ski trip early?

You’ll secure the best properties, score savings on Vrbo rentals, and take advantage of dynamic lift ticket pricing that favours early reservations.

What are the top ski destinations in Canada?

Whistler, Sun Peaks, Canmore, East Kootenay, and the Laurentians are among the most popular Canadian ski destinations on Vrbo. East Kootenay is this season’s top destination in the country.

What are the best ski destinations in Europe?

Resorts in France, Switzerland, and Austria often offer lower average rates for lift tickets and vacation homes compared to North America.

Why should I book a vacation rental for my ski trip with Vrbo?

Vrbo offers vacation rentals that provide the comfort and privacy of a full home, with plenty of ski-in/ski-out options in popular Canadian and international ski destinations. Travellers can also take advantage of discounts tailored to different types of mountain getaways.


Book with Confidence

We’re committed to protecting your stay and your peace of mind. Every booking is automatically backed by our VrboCare guarantee. Before, during, and after your stay, we’re available to make sure everything goes smoothly. If there’s a significant issue your host can’t resolve, we’ll help you find a comparable place or issue a refund for your reservation. That’s our promise. Learn more about VrboCare.

Methodology

*Vrbo’s top ski destinations are based on analysis of Vrbo bookings in mountain destinations during December 2024 - March 2025.