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

6 expert travel tips for planning the perfect ski trip

1. Book your ski trip at least two months ahead to beat the booking rush. Select homes on Vrbo also offer discounts to guests who book over 60 days in advance. Plus, lift ticket pricing is dynamic, often favoring advanced reservations.
2. Avoid peak periods to escape the crowds. Christmas week and President’s Day weekend are the busiest times for ski trips.
3. Try spring skiing. In past seasons, snowy conditions have lasted well into spring, when it’s less crowded on the mountains (except during Spring Break). Enjoy warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours for extended runs.
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. 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.
6. Consider smaller resorts or local hills. Deal hunters may be able to find lower priced vacation rentals and lift tickets in these lesser-known areas such as Boone, North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions

How do you plan a ski trip?

Start by choosing your destination and deciding on dates that avoid peak periods like Christmas week and President’s Day weekend. Book accommodations early—Vrbo offers ski-in/ski-out homes and rentals near shuttle routes for convenience. Consider smaller resorts or local hills for budget-friendly options and look for discounts on weeklong stays or last-minute stays on Vrbo.

When is the best time to book a ski trip?

Book at least two months ahead to beat the rush. Early reservations can unlock savings on Vrbo vacation rentals and lift tickets, which use dynamic pricing that favors advance booking.

What are the benefits of booking a ski trip early?

Early booking can secure the best homes and locations, such as ski-in/ski-out homes. Select Vrbo properties offer discounts for guests who book more than 60 days in advance, and lift tickets are usually cheaper when purchased early.

What are the best ski destinations in the US?

Top destinations include Big Sky, Park City, and Breckenridge for world-class terrain and vibrant villages. For budget-conscious travelers, smaller resorts like Boone, North Carolina, offer great skiing with lower-priced rentals and lift tickets.

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 Canada.

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 domestic and international ski destinations. Travelers 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 on call to make sure things go smoothly. If there’s a significant issue your host can’t resolve, we’ll help you find a similar place or get your reservation refunded. That’s our promise. Find more about VrboCare.

Methodology

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