Ski Passes

The majority of skiers take advantage of booking their ski passes ahead of their trip - this way they can not only save money but also time and ensure they can hit the slopes as soon as they arrive.

What are Ski Passes?

Almost everyone who goes on a skiing holiday will need to purchase a ski pass, this is usually a small ticket attached to your ski wear that proves you have paid to ride the lifts and are allowed to ski the runs in each resort. Many ski passes will cover more than one ski resort, called an all area ski lift pass, usually more expensive than a single area ski pass but a great way to experience a more varied choice of runs and piste.

Some ski resorts will allow complete beginners to use the nursery lifts free of charge and once they are more confident, they can then purchase a ski pass for the remaining time on their ski holiday and go higher and further afield. Its also common practise in many French resorts that over 72 years old's qualify for a free ski pass, so definitely research the ski resort before you travel.

How to get Ski Passes

Ski passes can be bought a number of ways, the most common way if to pre book it before you travel with your travel agent or tour operator, at least that way there is no surprises of extra expensive prices when you arrive in resort. The prices are agreed before you travel and your representative will have already got it for you for when you land, meaning you are not wasting time queueing for it and you can pretty much ski as soon as you arrive.

Another way is to call us on 0191 523 0112 and you can get a quote and book it, then as soon as you arrive in the village, you can pop to the office and collect, another way to avoid the queues and stop you wasting precious skiing time.

Daily Ski Passes

Finally you can also purchase daily ski passes, and these are usually available from the main lifts at the bottom of the mountain or from a main office in town, buying the daily ski pass usually works out more expensive though.

Each ski resort has a different policy, but many require a passport sized photo to complete your ski pass application, so be prepared and take one with you, definitely easier to get a photo here than trying to find a photo booth in a strange ski resort.

Be sure to look out for discounts, many tour operators offer deals on ski passes, sometimes 2 for 1 offers or free ski passes for children or OAP's, and some ski resorts offer various deals too, some will give you discount vouchers to use the following holiday or offer free ski passes for the older generation. Also you may find that your ski passes are included in your ski holiday, especially if you have booked a learn to ski pack, which also includes ski lessons and equipment too.