If you are planning a skiing trip to the USA or Canada, you should be aware of some differences in money and skiing between the two countries. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- The Canadian dollar is weaker than the US dollar*, so your money may go further in Canada.
- In the USA, tipping is more common and expected for service workers such as waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The typical tip is between 15 and 25% of the bill in the USA, and around 10 to 15% in Canada. Tipping is not a legal requirement, but it is often appreciated as it supplements the low wages of service workers. You can adjust your tip based on your satisfaction with the service and the quality of the food or drink.
- Skiing in Canada may be cheaper than in the USA, as the average price** of a ski lift ticket is CA$92 (US$70) in Canada and US$131 in the USA.
Currency
When it comes to currency, you have several options to pay for your skiing expenses. You can convert your money into US dollars or Canadian dollars before you travel, but be careful of the risk of theft and make sure your insurance covers it. You can also use your debit or credit card, but be aware of the transaction fees and the exchange rates that your bank may charge you. Another option is to use a prepaid currency card, which may offer better rates and security. Whatever you choose, it is a good idea to have some backup cash or card in case of emergency.
* This will fluctuate with changes in currency, please do check before you travel.
** Lift Price Tickets ary per resort, please check before you travel. Lift Tickets can often be cheaper when you purchase in advance of travelling. Read our feature on Lift Passes for more information.
