How Far in Advance Should you Book a Ski Holiday?
So, you’ve decided it’s time to hit the slopes! The question is—how far in advance should you book your ski holiday? Should you be an early booker securing the best deals, or can you afford to play it cool and wait for a last-minute ski holiday bargain? Let’s break it down so you can plan the perfect ski trip with confidence.
The Case for Booking Early: Secure the Best Deals
If you want the best choice of accommodation, flights, and ski resorts, early booking is your best bet. Many skiers book their holidays well in advance—sometimes months (or even a year) in advance—to take advantage of early bird discounts and guarantee their spot at top resorts.
Benefits of Early Booking
- More accommodation options – The best ski chalets and hotels go fast, especially in peak periods like school holidays.
- Discounted lift passes – Some resorts offer early bird deals on lift passes, saving you money before you even hit the slopes.
- Cheaper flights – Airlines typically increase prices closer to departure, so booking early can mean big savings.
- Best ski areas – You’ll have your pick of the top ski areas, ensuring prime locations with great snow conditions.
- Stress-free planning – Booking early means more time to organise ski gear, lessons, and après ski activities.
Early Bird Discounts with Alps2Alps
As an early booker, you can use our exclusive discount code EARLYBIRDBLOG to get 5% off any private transfer or a 10% total discount for return transfers!
Book Now with Your Discount
When Is the Best Time to Book?
6-12 Months in Advance: For the Organised Early Bookers
For those who love planning ahead, booking your ski holiday well in advance—especially pre-season—is the way to go. This is particularly smart if you’re heading to popular ski resorts like Chamonix, Val d’Isère, Morzine, Courchevel, or St. Anton during peak times.
This timeframe is ideal for:
- Families needing to align with school holidays
- Large groups looking for spacious chalets
- Anyone eyeing the most sought-after resorts and ski-in, ski-out accommodations
3-6 Months in Advance: The Sweet Spot for Most Skiers
If you book your ski holiday three to six months in advance, you’ll still have a decent selection of accommodation and may even catch a few late early bird deals. You’ll also have time to keep an eye on snow conditions and choose the perfect resort accordingly.
This is a great option for:
- Couples and small groups with flexible dates
- Intermediate skiers who want reliable snow
- Those looking for a mix of good deals and solid choices
1-3 Months in Advance: Risky But Doable
For those who aren’t keen on planning months in advance, there’s still a chance to find a good deal. However, availability will be limited, especially in high-demand ski resorts. Flights and lift passes may also be more expensive at this stage.
Perfect for:
- Skiers happy to go wherever there’s availability
- People looking for pre-season ski trips with fewer crowds
- Those with flexible work schedules who can book off-peak
Last-Minute Bookings: The Thrill of the Chase
A last-minute ski holiday can be an exciting gamble. If you’re flexible with dates and location, you might snag a fantastic deal, especially if resorts are trying to fill gaps. However, if you have specific resort preferences or are travelling during peak times, this is risky!
Ideal for:
- Solo skiers or couples who can be spontaneous
- Those looking for budget-friendly options
- Anyone who loves chasing the perfect snow conditions
Book a Last-Minute Ski Transfer
The Best Time to Book Based on the Season
Christmas & New Year
Book at least 9-12 months in advance. These are some of the busiest times, with limited accommodation and high prices closer to the date.
February Half-Term
Families should aim to book a year in advance for February half-term ski holidays to avoid disappointment. This is peak school holiday season, meaning early bird deals disappear fast.
Easter Skiing
Book 6-9 months ahead. Easter skiing is becoming more popular, thanks to great snow conditions in higher-altitude resorts.
January & March (Off-Peak Perfection)
If you love quiet slopes and cheaper prices, booking 3-6 months ahead should be enough time to get a good deal.
April & Pre-Season Skiing
April and early-season trips can often be booked 1-3 months in advance, as demand is lower than peak winter months.
Why You Should Book Your Ski Transfer Now for Next Season
Secure the Best Price
Booking your ski transfer early ensures you lock in the best rates. Prices often rise as the season approaches, especially during peak periods. Avoid last-minute surcharges and guarantee a stress-free arrival at your resort.
Avoid Currency Fluctuations
Exchange rates can shift unexpectedly, increasing the cost of last-minute bookings. Booking your transfer now protects you from potential currency changes, allowing you to budget more effectively.
Guaranteed Availability
Just like accommodation, the best transfer options get booked quickly—especially for school holiday weeks. Secure your spot in advance to ensure smooth travel arrangements.
More Flexibility
Early bookers have greater flexibility with pick-up times, vehicle types, and additional services, ensuring a tailor-made transfer experience.
Extra Tips for Booking Your Ski Holiday
Look Out for Package Deals
Many travel companies offer ski packages that include accommodation, lift passes, ski rental, and transfers. Alps2Alps offers fantastic packages that include ski transfers, ski passes, and / or equipment rental, helping you save money while ensuring a seamless ski holiday experience.
Booking everything together not only provides convenience but also helps you secure the best prices!
Check Snowfall Trends
If you’re booking months in advance, research past snow conditions to ensure you choose a resort with reliable snowfall for your dates.
Consider Travel Insurance
Unexpected changes can happen—whether it’s flight cancellations or injuries. Booking travel insurance early provides peace of mind in case plans c
The Final Verdict: When’s the Best Time to Book?
Ultimately, the best time to book depends on your priorities. Want the best resort, hotel, and deals? Book early. Prefer a bargain and don’t mind where you go? Take a chance with minute bookings.
Whenever you choose to book, make sure you’ve got your ski transfers sorted! We offer reliable and affordable transfers to all major Alpine resorts, ensuring you get to the slopes hassle-free.
Ready to Book Your Ski Holiday?
Don’t wait too long! Secure your ski trip today and ensure you get the best accommodation, ski area, and après ski experience. Plus, let us take care of your transfers, so all you have to focus on is enjoying the snow. Book now and hit the slopes with confidence!
