How to ski on a budget: This is the cheapest time to go skiing in Australia
Updated . First published
Skiing season in Australia is officially here, but taking part in the famously pricey sport can put a dent in the budget.
With both NSW and Victorian ski fields preparing to open, at least you avoid having to fly overseas to get that snow fix. And there are more ways you can save money, especially if you’re taking the family.
Mount Hotham in Victoria is a popular place to ski in Australia. Supplied
Like with a lot of holidays, booking early is key.
"The best ways to save in Thredbo are to book online early," Bronte Crawley, Assistant Brand & Marketing Manager, tells nine.com.au.
That means planning your visit at least 30 days ahead of time. And while weekends may be most convenient, going mid-week can save you lots of money on lift passes.
Early or late in the season can also be cheaper.
"Even more savings can be found in June and September, our value months," Bronte says.
“For example, if you book a mid-week trip in June or September, 30 plus days out you can save up to 50 per cent when compared to peak season pricing.”
"June and September are also favourites for those who prefer less crowds and more forgiving weather conditions."
Thredbo is a big place to ski in NSW. Supplied
If you've never skied before, a $99 learn-to-ski package is on offer, which includes a two-hour lesson.
You can also catch a FlixBus from Sydney to Thredbo, where the season starts on June 6, saving money on fuel.
READ MORE: Expert's guide to the best (and least-known) Japan skiing spots
Thredbo is preparing to open to skiing. Supplied
Meanwhile, look a package to get everything you need, like those offered by Vail Resorts.
Claire Kirkpatrick, Manager, Global Media Relations at Vail Resorts, which includes Perisher, Falls Creek, and Hotham, says one is even made for the newbies keen to try out the sport.
"Perisher is seeing growing interest from first-time visitors who are attracted to the unique experience of seeing and experiencing snow and alpine conditions through snow play but had considered skiing and snowboarding beyond their capabilities or their budget," she tells nine.com.au.
"The Epic Beginner Bundle is the most seamless, affordable way to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time this winter season."
You get a lift pass for green runs, a half-day group lesson, and ski or snowboard equipment rentals.
Mount Hotham has packages on offer for skiing. Supplied
“Days can be used consecutively or spread throughout the season across Perisher, Falls Creek and Hotham, so guests can decide when to go based on the weather,” she adds.
Perisher is currently also offering a free beginner lesson. To get this deal, guests simply add a lift-ticket for the weekend to their cart and there will be the option to add a $1 beginner lesson before they check out. There are plenty of June Deals now on offer
If you’re an avid skier, then there are also ways to save money by buying Epic or IKON passes.
The Epic Pass for four days works out at $163 a day.
The pass also gives you 15 per cent off some hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Some passes allow you to ski in Europe too. Getty Images/iStockphoto
IKON passes, which cover other ski resorts in Australia including Thredbo and around the world, are also a great way to head to the mountains.
You can even get an 18-month pass which allows you to take in Japan, North America and Europe once the winter season starts there. Plus two seasons skiing in Australia.
As for how the season is looking ahead of the June 6 opening, Claire says they're "encouraged by early-season snow."
New search data from Booking.com has revealed Aussies are already leaning into the cooler weather, with alpine destinations seeing strong interest ahead of the ski season.
Jindabyne and Thredbo, both in NSW are leading the way for a snow getaway in 2026 placing 10th and 19th in the overall list of most popular destinations.
Both have seen year and year increases, climbing one and two spots in the list respectively.
Falls Creek in Victoria was next on the list, also climbing two spots overall compared to last year.
