Why Skiers Are Going Global: The Surge in International Ski Vacations This Season

At Ski.com, we’re seeing a monumental shift this winter. Our clients are trading in the familiar for the far-flung, traveling across the pond to chase legendary snow, discover better value, and immerse themselves in unforgettable mountain culture.

International ski vacations aren't just a bucket list dream anymore—they’ve become the smart, accessible choice for skiers and snowboarders looking to get the most out of their season. From the deep powder of Japan to the massive, value-packed terrain of the Alps, travelers are embracing destinations that offer more skiing, more inclusions, and better value for their money.

Europe is Taking Center Stage

The biggest story this winter is the massive surge in European ski travel, a trend confirmed by the data from our team.

“We’ve seen a clear shift toward European destinations this season, with booking momentum building earlier and faster than in past years,” says Cat Iwanchuk, Ski.com’s Vice President of Business Development. “Travelers are not just booking Europe; they are booking longer stays once they get there.”

Europe Bookings are Up: Ski.com has seen a 33% increase in travelers choosing Europe this season.
Longer Stays Abroad: Our European ski trips are pacing nearly 30% ahead of this time last year, and, crucially, travelers are booking significantly more nights on average. Our guests aren't just visiting the Alps—they’re settling in and making the absolute most of their time on the mountain.
The Hot Spots: France and Austria are driving the charge, seeing a 63% and 52% jump in demand, respectively. This makes perfect sense: they offer massive, interconnected ski areas, cozy and endearing mountain villages, and incredible value compared to many North American resorts.

Global Pass Access Makes the World Smaller

One of the biggest reasons international ski trips feel so attainable is the power of the pass. Resorts connected to the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass networks continue to be a significant driver of global demand, enabling travelers to ski iconic international destinations without incurring the expense of expensive daily lift tickets.

For pass holders, this is a total game-changer. When your lift access is already covered, you can confidently redirect that part of your budget toward things that truly elevate the trip: better lodging, private instruction, memorable dining, or upgrading your flights. It transforms a big trip into an attainable and highly rewarding experience.

The True Value is Found Beyond the Lift Ticket

At its heart, value is what is fueling this move abroad. International ski destinations often provide a lower total trip cost while delivering a far richer overall experience.

In Europe, the biggest perk for families is often the lodging: breakfast is typically included. Think about the savings—at many major U.S. resorts, breakfast for a family of four can easily run $80–$120 per day. Overseas, that daily expense is already taken care of. That frees up serious room in the budget for a local ski school, a private guide, a spa day, an unforgettable dinner off the mountain, or a unique experience. (Check out fondue boating or paragliding in Interlaken!)

Combined with walkable villages, efficient public transportation, and affordable dining options, international trips allow travelers to maximize their food, lodging, and activity budgets without ever sacrificing quality.

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Japan’s Powder Appeal Continues

While Europe is leading the volume, Japan remains one of the fastest-growing destinations in the world among Ski.com travelers.

Interest in Japanese ski trips for the 2024/25 winter is up more than 50% compared to last year. Travelers continue to flock there to experience legendary powder, reliable snowfall, and a unique ski experience that blends world-class terrain with a deep, welcoming culture and incredible cuisine.

We Make the World’s Best Mountains Easy to Reach

Planning an international ski trip can feel overwhelming—from understanding lift passes and transfers to choosing the right village and hotel style. That’s exactly why the Ski.com Mountain Travel Experts are essential.

Our team has firsthand experience skiing these destinations. We don’t just book; we consult, helping guests navigate every detail:

Selecting the best village for your group (Charming and quaint? High-energy and big?).
Arranging seamless private or shared airport transfers.
Securing lift pass access, ski school, and private guides.

Our clients recognize this commitment to specialized knowledge, especially when tackling a complex international itinerary:

“Katie is absolutely amazing! She’s incredibly knowledgeable, offers fantastic advice, and goes above and beyond to make sure everything is perfect. I wouldn’t book a ski vacation in Europe without her expertise.” – Allison, US

“Christine Connolly is the best! As usual, Christine Connolly spent numerous hours trying to find the perfect location for our family skiing vacation...this time in Europe! Christine has been our go-to person at Ski.com for many years, and she has always delivered on time as promised, in the utmost professional way.” – Nelson Gonzalez, US

Read more TrustPilot reviews about Ski.com here.

As international ski travel continues to surge, Ski.com is here to make the process clear, seamless, and stress-free—helping you confidently explore the world’s best mountains with expert guidance every step of the way. Learn more about how it works.

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