Skiing is an expensive hobby, but some purchases leave skiers questioning whether the money is really worth it. From increasingly expensive lift tickets to overpriced lodge lunches and high-end equipment, mountain expenses can add up quickly.
We asked Unofficial Networks readers on Facebook what they consider the most ridiculous things people spend money on for skiing. The responses covered everything from resort prices to unnecessary gear, with a few familiar complaints dominating the discussion.
That works out to roughly 26% gear/gadgets, 22% food/drinks, 20% other/jokes, 15% lift tickets, 8% parking/driving, 5% travel/lodging, and 4% lessons.
Lift Tickets and Season Passes
Lift tickets were among the most frequently mentioned expenses, with readers repeatedly calling out the cost of skiing at major resorts. Vail Resorts, Colorado and Utah destinations, and Deer Valley all received criticism.
One person questioned the value of buying an expensive Epic Pass only to spend the day waiting in lift lines. Others argued that day tickets have become prohibitively expensive, particularly for people who cannot commit to skiing enough days to justify a season pass.
Food and Drinks at the Lodge
Resort food was another major target. Readers complained about expensive burgers, cafeteria lunches, chicken tenders, beer and other mountain dining options. Some cited $20 burgers and $30 cafeteria meals as examples of prices that feel excessive, particularly when the food itself is nothing special. Others singled out the cost of grabbing lunch at a main lodge instead of bringing food from home.
Parking Fees
Parking came up repeatedly, with several readers questioning why they should pay to park after already purchasing expensive lift tickets. One commenter pointed out the frustration of paying a substantial daily skiing rate only to face another $20 parking charge.
Expensive Ski Gear
High-end equipment and clothing also attracted criticism. Readers questioned the need to buy the newest skis every season, maintain a large ski collection or purchase premium jackets and gloves for relatively mild winter conditions.
Others called out expensive goggles, heated clothing, boot heaters and costly technical outerwear. One commenter argued that reasonably priced clothing can keep most recreational skiers comfortable without spending hundreds of dollars on individual items.
Private Lessons and Premium Experiences
Private ski lessons made the list, with one reader citing a $1,500 lesson as an especially extreme example. Others argued that even ordinary lessons have become too expensive, potentially discouraging newer skiers from improving their skills. Readers also questioned the appeal of private ski clubs, second homes near resorts and paid priority-lift access.
Gadgets and Unnecessary Accessories
Finally, commenters questioned purchases such as GoPros that rarely get watched footage, expensive ski poles, heads-up-display goggles and Bluetooth speakers. For some people, the problem was not any single purchase but the growing pressure to own the latest equipment and accessories.
