YMCA Healthy Living Magazine, powered by n4 food and health Winter 2017 | Page 18
HOW TO TAKE
THE FAMILY
ON A BUDGET
SNOW TRIP
Taking your family to the snow need not be an expensive exercise.
Here are eight tips to get the most bang for your winter buck!
oing to the snow with your family is a magical and
unforgettable experience, but it sure can be
expensive! YMCA Howmans Gap Alpine Centre
offers a cosy winter escape and an affordable option for
groups and families. Plus, it’s only 10 minutes away from the
famous snowfields of Falls Creek! Here are some top tips for
getting the most value for your snow dollars, this winter.
G
1 Get your snow gear for bargain prices
Discount supermarkets are known for massive snow clothing
sales, so can be a real haven for families looking for good
quality and affordable snow clothing. Adults can get pants and
jackets for a total of $100, while pants and jackets for kids can
go for less than $70. It’s also worth checking out secondhand
gear online, as there are often bargains to be had.
2 Look for discounts on equipment hire
When hiring your snow gear and equipment in the high
country, make sure you shop around because typically,
upmarket resorts will charge you more. Falls Creek Cross
Country offers budget-friendly hire rates, and is conveniently
located at Windy Corner car park, a beautiful snow-blanketed
area with a range of tracks for snow activities. Groups and
families can also receive discounts of 30 per cent when hiring
gear.
3 Choose accommodation away from the
tourist hub
The closer you are to the snowfields and lifts, the steeper the
prices will be (pun intended). It’s worth exploring options
outside the tourist hub, as they will be cheaper, as well as
offering a quieter environment. Howmans Gap Alpine Centre
is only 10 minutes from the Falls Creek snowfields but it still
has the perks of beautiful scenery, fun activities nearby, and
accommodation at family-friendly prices.
4 Shop before you go
Stocking up on all of your groceries is guaranteed to save
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YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE WINTER 2017