The basic elements of a ski or snowboarding trip are travel, accommodations, lift tickets or trail passes, and equipment. Ski tour operators and travel agents can save you money and planning time by offering you a package trip that includes all or some of these services. If you're not sure where you want to go or don't have much spare time to research your options, a package can be a good solution. p>Ski tour operators. These businesses buy services in bulk, such as hotel rooms, rental cars, and lift tickets, then "package" and sell them together at a discount (hence the term "package trip"). Be aware that operators will probably point you toward the larger resorts.

Direct reservations. Larger resorts often offer a full array of services, from flight arrangements to lodging, through either their own offices or a local ski tour operator.

You can find contact information about ski tour operators or resorts in ski travel books. Your public library may also have yellow pages for the ski area you're considering, as well as contact information on the area's chamber of commerce. Or type "ski travel" plus the name of the state, region, or country where you want to ski into an Internet search engine.

Travel agents. Your trusty local travel agent can be your contact with ski tour operators and resorts, and possibly point you toward a wider variety of resorts and services.