Colorado is the sweetheart of the Rockies, showcasing the natural beauty of the West, from mountain peaks and aspen forests to river valleys and high-desert mesas.
While some draws of Colorado can be expensive, such as ski vacations in the Rockies, there are plenty of affordable activities. Moreover, you can find bargains on lodging and high-ticket items if you know where to look.
Flights to Denver are Usually the Cheapest Way into the State
Denver International Airport (DIA) serves as the region’s hub, being one of the busiest airports in the country with direct flights to countless destinations. The high volume of flights creates opportunities for deals, particularly with low-cost airlines like Southwest, Frontier, and Spirit.
If you’re traveling to other parts of Colorado, smaller commercial airports are available. Although flights to these airports may be pricier and often require connections, they can save you the cost and hassle of renting a car or taking a shuttle from Denver. Therefore, it’s important to compare total expenses before booking any flights.
Don’t Rent a Car at the Airport
While driving through Colorado allows you to enjoy stunning mountain vistas and historic towns, renting a car from the airport can be costly. Car rental rates often start at $60 to $70 per day. However, booking a car to pick up in town can significantly reduce expenses by avoiding hefty airport taxes and fees.
A short cab ride to the nearest town’s rental agency can lead to substantial savings on a week-long trip.
Take a Shuttle to Ski Towns from Denver International Airport
If you’re traveling alone or with a small group, taking a shuttle to ski towns can often be cheaper than renting a car. Services like Epic Mountain Express and Summit Express provide convenient door-to-door shuttle options from DIA to major resort towns like Aspen, Vail, Beaver Creek, and Breckenridge.
Moreover, many resorts offer free bus services around town and to nearby ski resorts, providing a budget-friendly transportation solution.
The Cheapest Times to Visit Colorado are Spring and Fall
From April to May, known as mud season, prices typically decrease as Colorado’s ski season comes to a close. Similarly, October and November see a dip in rates as the weather cools. During these low seasons, travelers can enjoy discounts—sometimes as much as half off—on hotels, guided excursions, and even dining options.
Save Money by Staying in a Hostel in Colorado
A growing trend in many Colorado cities and mountain towns is the emergence of modern hostels. These establishments cater to budget travelers while offering stylish accommodations with various amenities. Many hostels provide private rooms, shared bathrooms, and kitchen facilities to help save on meal costs.
Go Car Camping
Car camping is an exciting and economical way to experience Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes. With many private and public campgrounds offering budget-friendly overnight stays, travelers can easily find spots to set up camp. Most campgrounds feature shared facilities and some even offer showers and camp stores.
Take Your Tent to the Backcountry
If you’re looking for solitude and a more rugged experience, consider dispersed camping. This free option allows camping on federal lands away from established campgrounds, offering numerous possibilities in Colorado’s vast public lands.
Stay in a Hut
If you enjoy the wilderness yet appreciate the comfort of shelter, consider staying in one of Colorado’s backcountry huts. These rustic accommodations range from basic cabins to establishments featuring solar-powered amenities, making them an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Shop at Grocery Stores and Farmers Markets
Dining out can quickly become expensive in Colorado. To save, plan to prepare your own meals using ingredients from local grocery stores and farmers markets, where you can find affordable ready-made options like salads, snacks, and fruits.
Ask About Discounts
Don’t hesitate to inquire about discounts for museums, tours, and public transportation. Many venues offer reduced rates for children, seniors, military personnel, and students. Remember that several museums have designated free days each month, which can further help you save.
Buy an America the Beautiful Pass
For those planning to explore Colorado’s national parks like Rocky Mountain or Mesa Verde, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass. This pass grants entry to all national parks nationwide for a year, making it a budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.
Find Skiing and Snowboarding Deals
As one of the priciest ski destinations, Colorado ski resorts can charge up to $225 for daily lift tickets. However, discounted online ticket purchases, midweek skiing, and multiday passes can help save significantly when hitting the slopes.
Daily Costs Overview
- Ski-town shuttles: Free
- Lift tickets: $85–225
- State park campsite: $18–28
- Hostel (dorm bed): $35–85
- Basic room for two: from $90
- Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from $100
- Cup of coffee: $3–5
- Sandwich: $8–14
- Dinner for two (without drinks): $30–100
- Pint of craft beer: $6–12
