As winter is on its way, this is the perfect time to start planning your ski vacation. Good deals abound when you make your reservations early. Even if you’re not sure you can afford a destination trip, you may want to look into it as the bargains are out there already. You may find you can afford one after all! Where are the deals? Let’s take a look.

Airline fares are lower when you buy a plane ticket at least three weeks prior to departure. Often, the further out you book your flight, the better deal you will find. This is particularly true for travel around Christmas, President’s Weekend, and spring break, which for many schools can be mid March. If you try to book a flight two weeks from departure, the fare will definitely be higher, and the final week prior to your departure, will always be the most expensive. One also has to consider the possibility that the flights can sell out too, leaving no options for the last minute fliers.

If you are planning on flying to your ski destination, you may be dreading airline baggage fees. One idea is to check the price of rental equipment at your final destination. Compare that to the price of a second checked bag (for roundtrip travel) on your airline of choice. It may be less expensive to check one bag on the plane and plan on renting skis. If you prefer your own ski boots, you can still bring them in your checked bag, or carry them on the plane in a ski boot bag.

If you fly often and have a preferred airline, be aware of a new option. United has rolled out a new program called Premier Baggage. This is a one-year subscription fee of $249.00. It allows the travel (and eight companions) to check up to two standard bags each, without fees, every time you travel on United’s flights. Other airlines are likely to soon follow United’s lead on this new baggage fee idea.

Hotels are starting to offer specials this time of year as well. For instance Hotel Terra, an eco-friendly boutique hotel in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is offering a package right now for the holidays. Book four nights and the fifth night is free. They are also offering another special where your room night and lift ticket combined are only $99 per night. Another example of early season booking discounts, The Village at Squaw Valley is offering package deals after the Christmas holiday. Four nights lodging and four lift tickets, only $130 per person (based on double occupancy). These are great deals considering the price of lift tickets these days!

As you can see, a little planning can help save a lot of money. Contact your travel agent or check online for discounted prices at your dream ski destination!