If you think the economy might put the kibosh on your ski vacation, think again. Sometimes there are less expensive options close to the big resorts.

If you’re a beginner, expect to pay about a hundred dollars for equipment rental, a ski lesson and a lift pass in Squaw Valley or North Star in Lake Tahoe.

But less than 20 miles away is Tahoe Donner Ski resort in Truckee, California where you’ll pay just $70 for the same package.

If you’re heading to Utah stay away form the crowded resorts and head to southern Utah to Bryan Head, a well kept secret among the locals.

It’s a full service resort with more than 50 ski runs and it costs $45 for a full day pass.

And if you really want to go to an expensive resort to spot the rich and famous in their ski gear, just skip the lift pass all together and order a hot chocolate in Aspen.

Oh yeah, that hot chocolate, it’s $250, no I’m kidding, but not by much.

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