YMCA Healthy Living Magazine, powered by n4 food and health Winter 2017

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 18 YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE WINTER 2017

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