I spent $1,200 on a weekend ski trip, but I could've saved $500 if I avoided these 5 money-sucking mistakes

Monica HumphriesFeb 10, 2023, 17:15 IST

Insider's author could've saved $500 on a ski weekend by not taking renting ski gear from somewhere else and booking a hotel farther from the resort.Monica Humphries/Insider

I spent $1,200 to ski and snowboard for two days in Winter Park, Colorado.
Some costs like lift tickets were unavoidable, but I could've saved $500 if not for five mistakes.

I left a weekend of skiing and snowboarding in Winter Park, Colorado, with a handful of receipts totaling $1,220, and my jaw on the floor.

The author holds a rented snowboard in Winter Park, Colorado.Monica Humphries/Insider

While my train ride to the resort from Denver was a stress-free, delightful experience, I would've saved around $125 if I drove my car instead.

Views from the Amtrak Winter Park Express train.Monica Humphries/Insider

Since I didn't have a car in Winter Park, I wanted to stay at a hotel near the resort. It was pricier than hotels located farther away.

The Winter Park Mountain Lodge in Winter Park, Colorado.Monica Humphries/Insider

I knew dining out would cost more than cooking, but a $40 burger made me regret my choice.

Side-by-side images of a $40 burger and a bar's menu.Monica Humphries/Insider

If I was more strategic about the days I visited, I could've saved $100 on a lift ticket.

The Winter Park Resort in Colorado.Monica Humphries/Insider

Renting gear at the resort was convenient, but it wasn't cost-effective.

The author gets a pair of rental skis.Monica Humphries/Insider

Skiing is expensive. For a thriftier trip, I'll happily save $500 by packing PB&Js and carpooling with friends.

The author at the base of the Winter Park Resort.Monica Humphries/Insider

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