Park City, Utah…Delta, Continental and United have increased their baggage fees again, now charging $25 for the first checked bag and $35 for the second. It costs $120 round trip for two bags.  What options does this leave the skier or snowboarder?

Rent Gear: Many travelers are leaving their gear at home and renting with services like Ski Butlers. Depending on the ski/board package that you choose this may be the cheapest and easiest way to avoid more baggage charges. In addition you can rent the same skis you may own or skis that are better suited for the conditions and it saves the hassle of schlepping them. 

Know your airline: Many airlines offer slight discounts if you check your bags online or travel on Southwest which does not charge for the first two bags.

Get Fee Waived: Baggage fees are generally waived for travelers who are either frequent fliers or have reached elite status.

Ship Luggage: No hassles at the airport. No delayed or lost luggage. Downside: Packing, organizing, shipping and you still need to pay.

Bryn, Park City, UT

Countless ski rental shops fail to sanitize and dry their ski boots, thus resulting in stinky ski boots. While this may be a constant in the ski rental industry, there are a handful of shops that actually care about the boots they are renting out.

These elite ski rental companies have a trick. They constantly update their ski boot inventory yearly to maintain a clean slection of boots. Not only do these outfitters have "non-stinky" boots, but the boots are often brand new. And they personally guarantee the perfect fit.

Often, you can even rent your ski package and then purchase the boots that you were using. This is a great way to save money while getting a great a boots that you know work for you. Because, ideally, every skier should have their own boots anyway. This way they know they will have a great boot and they get rent the latest equipment for a bigger discount.