Is It Still Worth It to Ski Europe?
Published by David Abramowitz
A Firsthand Perspective from Kulkea Founder, David Abramowitz
Anyone who knows me knows that for well over a decade, I’ve been ringing the bell about skiing Europe. Long before the IKON and Epic passes expanded to the Alps or social media influencers hopped in on the après scene, I was developing ski travel products to reduce the friction of travel and telling friends and anyone who would listen that skiing Europe is a must. They were all exhilarated about the fascinating destinations and experiences, but hardly anyone would believe it when I rattled off the prices of European lift tickets and told them that a trip to the Alps could easily cost less than a trip down to Disney. They always thought there had to be a catch. There wasn’t, but now it’s a little fuzzy.
Is Skiing Europe Still Affordable?
Despite what you may be hearing these days, skiing the Alps is no longer the great bargain it once was just a few short years ago. It’s still not crazy expensive by American ski trip standards unless you make it out to be, but prices and costs have all risen due to inflation, world events, social media influencers, and IKON and Epic passes paving the way for hordes of Americans. These days, I’d put it still as less expensive than taking a U.S. ski trip, depending upon where you go, but it could make you wonder whether it’s still worth it to ski Europe. As someone who loves to ski, travel, and have awesome experiences, the answer is absolutely yes.
Lift ticket prices are up compared to when I started skiing Europe, but they’re still far lower than in the U.S. The cost to fly is also up, but if you’re flexible and book early, you can save. If you consider 3 or 4-star family-run hotels, which I actually prefer, you’ll probably find plenty of affordable accommodations. You can even take it a step further and act like a European by renting an apartment where you can cook in. But, no matter what you do, avoid the rookie mistake of going during mid-Feb European school vacation weeks to avoid higher prices and the crowds. If skiing Europe is on your radar, I do have a bit of advice.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Ski Resort in Europe
It seems obvious, but as we all know, the obvious isn’t so obvious. There are 4,000 ski areas in Europe. They’re vastly different and range the gamut from purpose-built resort areas to old farming villages to areas perfect for avid ski families to the casual ski family to places perfect for older friends on a getaway to the biggest après party areas you could imagine. Knowing your group and picking the right mountain matters hugely if you want to have a terrific experience.
Should You Ski IKON & Epic Pass Resorts in Europe?
Naturally, you’ll most likely consider the areas on your IKON or Epic pass. You’ve paid for it. The areas on the passes are usually great. You want to get your money’s worth out of the pass. The process is simplified. However, I recommend that if you’re able to, also consider other ski areas before making your choice.
Why Off-Pass Ski Areas in Europe Are Worth Considering
You may find an off-pass area is more suitable for what you and your group want. It may be a great fit. It can allow for some fun side trips or even a cool city stay on the front or back end of travel. And, surprisingly, when drilling down on the numbers, you may find it financially works out considering the low lift ticket prices, lower accommodation rates, and other costs.
Lastly, as the owner of Kulkea, I have to recommend you trust your ski boots to our smart carry-on Käydä and Kartta travel backpacks and your skis to one of our Kantaja Roller Ski Bags. There are a lot of brands jumping into the ski travel area now, but this is what we’ve been doing for a long time, so we know what it takes from a design and quality perspective.