If you are planning a skiing trip to the USA or Canada, you should be aware of some differences in money and skiing between the two countries. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- The Canadian dollar is weaker than the US dollar*, so your money may go further in Canada.
- In the USA, tipping is more common and expected for service workers such as waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The typical tip is between 15 and 25% of the bill in the USA, and around 10 to 15% in Canada. Tipping is not a legal requirement, but it is often appreciated as it supplements the low wages of service workers. You can adjust your tip based on your satisfaction with the service and the quality of the food or drink.
- Skiing in Canada may be cheaper than in the USA, as the average price** of a ski lift ticket is CA$92 (US$70) in Canada and US$131 in the USA.
Currency
When it comes to currency, you have several options to pay for your skiing expenses. You can convert your money into US dollars or Canadian dollars before you travel, but be careful of the risk of theft and make sure your insurance covers it. You can also use your debit or credit card, but be aware of the transaction fees and the exchange rates that your bank may charge you. Another option is to use a prepaid currency card, which may offer better rates and security. Whatever you choose, it is a good idea to have some backup cash or card in case of emergency.
Top Cards for Travelling Abroad
* This will fluctuate with changes in currency, please do check before you travel.
Lift Tickets and Passes:
Daily lift tickets can be pricey, often between $100 and $200. Consider multi-day passes or season passes like the Epic Pass or Ikon Pass for better value and access to multiple resorts. ** Lift Price Tickets ary per resort, please check before you travel. Lift Tickets can often be cheaper when you purchase in advance of travelling. Read our feature on Lift Passes for more information.
Equipment Rentals:
Renting skis, boots, and poles typically costs $40 to $60 per day. Look for package deals that include rentals and lift tickets.
Top Ski Rental Companies in the USA
Ski Butlers: Known for exceptional service, Ski Butlers offers convenient delivery and pick-up of ski and snowboard equipment at top resorts across North America. They provide high-quality gear and excellent customer support.
Christy Sports: With numerous locations in popular ski destinations, Christy Sports offers a wide range of rental options. They also provide convenient online booking and in-store pick-up.
Black Tie Ski Rentals: Specializing in delivery services, Black Tie Ski Rentals brings the equipment directly to your accommodation. They offer personalized fittings and high-quality gear.
Epic Mountain Rentals: Affiliated with Vail Resorts, Epic Mountain Rentals offers convenient on-mountain locations, easy online reservations, and a variety of equipment options to suit all skiers and snowboarders.
Lessons and Guides:
Ski lessons range from $50 to $200, with private sessions being more expensive. Hiring a guide for backcountry skiing adds safety and local knowledge.
Travel Insurance:
Don’t forget travel insurance that covers ski-related incidents, including medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
