Great Last Minute Ski Deals - Know Where to Look

It’s understandable to be cautious about last minute ski-deals – after all, being able to bag a great holiday for an incredibly low price seems rather unbelievable. But if you’re looking in the right places and targeting somewhere you really want to go, these deals are definitely a great option to find the best skiing for less. Remember, just because something is on sale doesn’t mean it’s too good to be true.

Great Places, Great Deals- Just be Flexible.

The trick, most definitely, is to hone in on resorts that are really on your radar. Meaning, don’t pick something just because it’s on offer. Amazing deals at great ski areas such as the Three Valleys, Espace Killy and Paradiski often turn up, as long as you keep your eyes open and are flexible.

Flexibility, of course, is key to bagging these discounts. For instance, choosing a date that’s low season definitely opens a world of possibilities. Farther away from school holidays also means more and better options. Here’s a tip: late January to April offers excellent options for last minute ski deals.

Timing

On the other hand, if peak season is really the only time you can go, don’t worry. Good-priced packages for these periods may be harder to find, but not impossible. One option is to book early - the winter before your ski holiday is an excellent time to book. The other option is to book late – just make sure your bags are packed, your skis are ready and you’re signed up for any last minute ski deals to be emailed to you. They happen more often than you think!

Location

Location is another of the things you will need to be flexible about if you’re looking for great last minute ski deals. For instance, just because you want to ski in Meribel or Courchevel doesn’t mean you need to be booked to stay in those resorts. Resorts in areas around and below work just as well, can be more economical, and you have access to the best pistes anyway by virtue of the lifts.

Some villages in popular ski areas are also just a tad less in demand than others. For instance, it’s much easier to find great deals in Les Menuires than in its popular neighbours Meribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens.

Also, self-catering chalets and villas are often the best options for skiing on a budget. Not only are they often on offer at a discount with last minute ski deals, being able to shop for your food and/or eat in helps you avoid the high costs of dining and entertainment at the high-end resorts such as Tignes and Val D’Isere.

So start the search for your perfect ski holiday - it’s easier than you think.

Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays in La Tania and other fantastic locations. If you're looking for last minute ski deals in catered or self catered chalets, we can help. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday call Ski Amis.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.