Ski passes are becoming more expensive, ski areas are offering dynamic rates: what is this and how does it work? | Instagram VTM News

A six-day ski pass in high season will cost an average of 22.30 euros (8.4 percent) compared to last year. Concretely, you will pay about 26 euros extra for a ski pass in France this winter. In Italy, the price increase is about 23 euros. Whoever wants to go skiing in Germany will pay 20 euros more, and in Austria at least 38 euros. What is striking: in Switzerland, ski pass prices have remained almost the same as in previous years. Although the price of a six-day ski pass in high season is still the most expensive among all the regions there.

Currently, ski passes in Switzerland always have dynamic rates, which are on the rise in Austria, and are the exception in France. But this year, more ski areas will be using this dynamic pricing system for the first time. This means that the price of a ski pass will vary depending on a number of factors, such as weather conditions, period, snowfall, and also the demand for ski passes. For example, a ski pass can cost 65 euros one day and around 80 euros the next day. These variable prices will apply at popular ski resorts such as Arosa Lenzerheide, Engadin St. Moritz, Crans-Montana, Billwald, Montafon-Brandenertal, Zermatt, Sölden, Gurgul, Engelberg and Gastein.

How can you save if you really want to go on a ski holiday? By reserving or purchasing your card online in advance. For example, the early bird discount in Austria can be up to 55 euros for a six-day ticket, says Florian Brandt of Snowplaza. This also saves a lot of waiting time at the cash register, especially in peak season. You can also get a discount at Italy’s Dolomiti Superski, the world’s largest ski area, if you purchase your ski passes online in advance. Another tip: Book an all-inclusive trip with a travel organization. The price of the ski pass has already been included.

What if you have children? At most ski areas, children up to five years old ski for free, after which children or youth fees are charged. But many winter sports destinations offer special deals for families. For example, children up to eighteen years old can ski for free every Saturday in Almenfelt Lofer (Austria). Or you can get one SKI Plus CITY CARD buying. This is a ski pass that provides access to thirteen ski areas and is free for children up to the age of eight.