The reality of season finances
A ski season isn't cheap. Between getting there, buying gear, and the inevitable après sessions, it's easy to burn through your savings faster than expected. But plenty of seasonaires manage to finish the season with money still in the bank, or at least break even. It comes down to planning and a few smart habits.
Before you go
Build a buffer
Have at least one month's expenses saved beyond your first pay cheque. Wages often come late in the first month, and you might need to buy gear, pay a deposit on accommodation, or cover transport. Running out of cash in week three is stressful and avoidable.
Get the right bank account
If you're working in euros, a multi-currency account with Monzo, Revolut, or Wise will save you a fortune on exchange rates and transaction fees. Set this up before you leave. Some employers can pay directly into euro-denominated accounts.
Buy gear smart
Don't buy everything new. Check second-hand sites, Facebook marketplace groups for your resort, and end-of-season sales. Skis, boots, and boards that are a year or two old perform almost identically to brand-new gear at a fraction of the price.
During the season
Take advantage of what's included
If your job comes with accommodation, food, and a lift pass, you're already saving thousands. Make the most of staff meals instead of eating out. A lift pass alone can cost over €1,000 for the season, so a role that includes one is a significant perk.
Cook at home
Eating out in ski resorts is expensive. A pizza and a beer can easily cost €25-€30. Get into the habit of cooking with your housemates. Bulk cooking pasta, stews, and curries is cheap, social, and much better fuel for skiing than a hangover breakfast.
Watch the après habit
This is where most season budgets fall apart. Drinks in resort bars are not cheap, and it's easy to spend €50-€80 on a single night out. You don't need to become a hermit, but setting a weekly spending limit for nights out will keep things under control.
Some tips that work:
- Pre-drinks at home before going out
- Stick to beer over cocktails
- Alternate between big nights out and quieter evenings in
- Take advantage of staff discount if your bar offers one
Track your spending
It doesn't need to be complicated. A simple note on your phone where you jot down what you spend each week will make you much more aware of where the money goes. Most people are surprised when they see the numbers.
Sell your skills
If you have a skill, use it. Plenty of seasonaires pick up extra income through private lessons, personal training, massage, photography, or tutoring. If you're a qualified ski instructor, weekend privates can bring in meaningful cash on top of your main role.
The big-ticket savings
Don't buy a season pass if it's included
This sounds obvious, but some people take roles without a pass and then buy one separately. If a pass is important to you, prioritise jobs that include one. Browse roles on PeakWave and check what's included in the package.
Share transport costs
Getting to resort can be expensive. Sharing a car or arranging a group transfer splits the cost significantly. Many resort Facebook groups have lift-share threads in the weeks before the season starts.
Use your time off wisely
On days off, not every activity needs to cost money. Touring, hiking, exploring the village, or just enjoying the views is free. Save the expensive off-piste guides and heliskiing for a special occasion.
Coming home
Budget for the journey home and have a plan for re-entry. Many seasonaires struggle financially in the weeks after a season because they didn't plan for the gap before their next job starts. Having some savings set aside makes the transition much smoother.
A ski season is one of the best experiences you'll ever have. Being smart with money doesn't mean having less fun: it means the fun lasts longer and you're not stressed about your bank balance while you're living in the mountains.