Why this new 'glamtainer' is the best value snow stay option yet

Tiny homes are the talk of the towns. Renovation reality show contestants DIY them, floppy-hatted social media influencers pose in them, they're becoming a tourism drawcard. So, when we heard about the latest tiny home - a "glamtainer" in Jindabyne in NSW snow country - how could we resist? Skiing in Australia is expensive, but so fun. Could this be the way to have a family snow break without breaking the bank?

Past the NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park's people in caravans, tents and even cold little swags, you will find two new glamtainers - basically big shipping containers converted into chic accommodation. Open the door to yours and feel instant relief - two big air conditioners and a little fireplace keep the place warm, even as wild winds rage outside. In fact the whole setup is not as basic as "converted shipping containers" sounds. It even has a spacious verandah with a barbecue and views of the Jindabyne Lake and snow-capped mountains beyond.

Melbourne-based builders Glam eXperiences have done a good job transforming shipping containers into a light, modern and cosy family space. It's pretty compact for four of us, but with wise use of space, so it's an excellent option for budget-conscious travellers wanting to hit the slopes or, in summer, hike or ride the mountains. At $400-$450 per night for the four of us in peak ski season, it was one of the cheapest options we could find online.

A nearby two-bedroom hotel apartment fitting four was more than double that.

Also read: Found! The one place you can combine on-snow and fine dining

On one-and-a-half sides of the glamtainers, there are floor to ceiling windows, so it doesn't feel cramped.

There are rooms within - a nice bathroom and a small second bedroom - and a combined kitchenette/lounge with sink, microwave and small fridge on one side; lounge, dining table and TV on the other, and a queen bed off to the side.

There's no drying room - you'll have to head to reception for that; on the way, you will also find a games room, woodfired pizza oven and camp kitchen.

You could make new friends by the communal campfire, but Jindabyne's dining scene is a short stroll away and should be experienced.

Especially the excellent La Famiglia, featuring delicious and fresh food, from Mamma's lasagne to traditional pizzas. Best to book in advance though - super-friendly owner Valerio squeezed us in on a busy Friday night and we felt so lucky he did!

If you do miss out, there are dozens of other options: a Persian cafe; swanky Japanese; Mexican with yummy margaritas.

Of course, the main action is an easy half-hour commute to Thredbo: you can park right at the bottom of the mountain, just purchase a $29 a day National Parks pass on your way in.

Budget-conscious travellers should book their lift tickets online and try to ski midweek.

And take snacks! On-mountain food is expensive and substandard - save it for a nice dinner out.

Book a Discovery Tour at Thredbo - this three-hour guided tour costs just $35 a person and gives you access to express queues and all the secret stuff: the most plentiful snow, tips such as the best spot for a coffee and an interesting history of the resort.

The writer was a guest of NRMA Holiday Park Jindabyne, 6 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne NSW. From $350 per night peak season; low season from $165 per night. Rates are cheaper for NRMA members.