Outdoorshopping Blog

Planning a snowy getaway can involve a bit of spontaneity, but the fact of the matter is that some items are best purchased ahead of time to cut down on wasted time and inevitable headaches. Busy winter seasons at ski resorts can mean longer waiting times and pass purchasing hassles, but those who plan ahead and get their passes before they get to the resort can feel the benefits of a smoother, faster check-in process leading to more time on the slopes. Here are a few tips to buying your ski passes in advance.

Look for Discounts.

Many resorts have different purchasing prices for their tickets based on how you buy them. For instance, window rates for ski passes can change from day to day. When you purchase your ski passes in advance, you may find that there are discounts available, cutting down on the strain on your wallet. In fact, places like Winter Park Resort in Colorado allow for guests who purchase in advance to save up to 38% off of the window price! Some resorts require that you make these purchases at least 48 hours in advance to ensure that you receive the discount, so plan ahead and act accordingly.

Buy for the Season.

Combine the benefits of discounts when purchasing ahead of time by bulking up on your purchase for the season. Rather than buying ski passes for certain days, many will opt to purchase a season pass (especially if they live in the area and will make use of the slopes on a regular basis). In this way, you can purchase your pass to suit you for the entire season, so you won’t have to wait in line every time you enter the resort. And as an added bonus, you’re likely to get a discount when you purchase your passes this way too!

Pick a Date or Choose Flex Rates.

Some resorts like Hunter Mountain remind shoppers that window rates can change daily, so purchasing tickets ahead of time locks in the rate at which you bought your ticket online, regardless of the window ticket price of the day. Here, you can choose a specific date or even opt for flex dates, which are generally good for any non-holiday date.

Cut Down on Wasted Time.

We’ve all been there: You’re excited to hit the slopes, and you’re pretty well stocked and ready to go. Then, you get to the counter, and you’re stuck waiting in line to purchase your ski pass. The day is dwindling away, and the only thing keeping you from snowy perfection is the hassle of purchasing your ticket. By buying your ski pass in advance, you’re saving yourself the hassle of waiting in line, giving you more time out on the slopes.