5 Reasons to Avoid Winter Retreats for Your Sales Team in 2026

As we step into the winter of 2026, many companies are considering the benefits of offsite retreats for their sales teams. However, surprising statistics reveal that nearly 60% of employees feel less motivated during the colder months, which can significantly impact the effectiveness of these gatherings. If you’re contemplating a winter retreat, here are five compelling reasons to reconsider.

1. Increased Travel Costs in Winter

Travel expenses can escalate during winter months, especially around the holidays. Prices for flights and accommodations often surge, with costs rising by as much as 30%. For example, a round-trip flight from New York to Denver typically runs around $250 in the off-season, but can spike to $400 in December.

Budget Breakdown Example:

• Travel: $400/person (30% increase)
• Lodging: $200/night (peak rates)
• Total: $600 for a single night

2. Weather Disruptions

Winter weather can wreak havoc on travel plans. Snowstorms and icy conditions can lead to flight cancellations or delays, with over 25% of flights affected in January. This unpredictability can leave your team stranded or arriving late, reducing the effectiveness of your retreat.

Risk Mitigation Tips:

• Book flexible travel options to allow for changes.
• Plan for travel insurance to cover delays or cancellations.

3. Limited Outdoor and Team-Building Activities

Winter retreats often restrict outdoor activities due to cold weather. While some teams may enjoy skiing or snowboarding, many activities are limited, which can stifle team bonding. Indoor team-building exercises can feel forced and less engaging compared to the vibrant options available in spring or summer.

Activity Recommendations:

• Indoor: Escape rooms, cooking classes, or workshops.
• Outdoor: Hiking, biking, or team sports are better in warmer months.

4. Lower Employee Morale

The winter months can bring seasonal affective disorder (SAD) for many, leading to lower energy levels and motivation. According to studies, productivity drops by 20% in winter months. This decreased morale can hinder the collaborative spirit you aim to foster during a retreat.

Engagement Levels:

• Winter Retreats: Low engagement due to weather and morale.
• Alternative Seasons: Spring and summer yield higher participation and enthusiasm.

5. Venue Limitations and Availability

Many venues cater to holiday parties and events during the winter, leading to limited availability for corporate retreats. High demand can result in higher costs and fewer options. For instance, popular venues like The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs can charge up to $350/person/night during peak winter.

Venue Comparison Table:

| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person | Best For | F&B Included | AV Quality | |--------------------------|--------------------|----------------|---------------|--------------------|--------------|------------| | The Broadmoor | Colorado Springs | 50-500 | $350 | Large gatherings | Yes | High | | Snowbird Resort | Sandy, Utah | 30-200 | $300 | Ski teams | Yes | Medium | | The Ritz-Carlton | Lake Tahoe, CA | 20-300 | $400 | Luxury experiences | Yes | High | | Park City Marriott | Park City, UT | 30-400 | $250 | Mid-size teams | Yes | Medium | | Fairmont Banff Springs | Banff, Canada | 50-600 | $450 | International teams | Yes | High |

Our Top Picks:

• Budget-Friendly: Park City Marriott
• Mid-Range: Snowbird Resort
• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton

Conclusion

While winter retreats may seem appealing, the logistical challenges, increased costs, and lower engagement levels make them less than ideal for your sales team in 2026. Instead, consider planning your offsite in spring or summer, when travel is more affordable, activities are abundant, and morale is higher.

Action Items:

1. Evaluate your team’s needs and consider alternative seasons for your retreat.
2. Start researching venues and activities for spring/summer offsites.
3. Create a detailed budget and timeline to ensure smooth planning.