Dust off the snowboard, dig out the boots, check the weather for signs of powder and start licking your lips for hot chocolate at the lodge. Winter means it is time to coast down a snow-covered mountain with crisp air biting your cheeks and we're here to show you how to do it for less.

The first part of any ski trip is figuring out how you are going to get there.

1. Catch the bus
Check out mountain buses from nearby towns and ski shops. A ride on the bus will often come as a package deal with the lift ticket. It's always nice to sleep on the way home rather than driving.

2. Carpool
Ride with friends to split the cost of gas and consider buying a season parking pass. Be prepared; carry chains or winter tires and a spare.

3. Don't fly solo
Booking a flight will obviously cost you more money, so always look for package deals. Often the cost of a flight, lodging and ski pass package is cheaper than the flight alone.

A general rule about lift tickets is that you should NEVER pay full price.

4. Show your ID
Most places offer discounts for school ski and snowboard clubs or just with your student ID.

5. Workin' 9 to 5
Ski on weekdays rather than weekends or holidays. Not only will you avoid standing in line, but most resorts have cheaper weekday tickets.

6. Half time
Half-day tickets are obviously cheaper than full-day tickets. If you think that four hours is plenty of powder, you might as well buy the half-day ticket. Another option, especially for beginners, is a ticket good for a limited number of chairlifts.

7. Buy a season pass
Invest in a season pass or midweek pass and buy it in the fall. The earlier you buy it the cheaper it will be.

8. Clip coupons
Scour local newspapers near the mountain for special deals and coupons.

Ski and snowboard gear is often the most expensive part of the ski season.

9. Something borrowed
Rent your gear if you are new to the sport. Although renting on a daily basis is the most expensive option, it makes sense if you aren't sure about the sport yet. You may also lease for the season. You will find better deals renting from the ski shops in the nearby towns than from the resort. As always, ask about packages that include the rental, lift ticket and lessons.

10. Swap shop
Ski swaps are usually held in early fall. Local ski shops are getting rid of last season's merchandise and skiers and snowboarders are selling their old gear.

11. Last season
You can find great deals on last year's models and styles if you shop in the summer or early fall when shops are making room for new merchandise.

12. Surf for skiwear
If you find something you like, find it on the Internet. It can be a little risky when you can't try on the gear so be sure to check it out in the store first.

When you step in from the crisp mountain air, nothing sounds better than the sizzling grill and that's exactly what the resort is counting on.

13. Pack your lunch
The best option is to bring your own picnic lunch. There are lockers located all around the resort so storage of your food is easy. You can even leave perishables in the car or an outdoor locker.

14. Stash a snack
Your puffy parka has lots of pockets so fill them with snacks like energy bars and trail mix. Carry a water bottle or camelback to keep hydrated.

15. Drive through
Use some of the money you saved to stop for a bite on the drive home. Local ski towns have great places to eat.