The Hidden Pitfalls of Rental and Lift Ticket Packages

Planning a ski trip can be easier if you bundle rental equipment and lift tickets together. This way, you only have to deal with one package. It saves time and makes the process more convenient. Vail Resorts, the owner of Epic Mountain Sports, often promotes these deals as a one-stop solution for all your skiing or snowboarding needs.

However, what appears to be a seamless and cost-effective option can quickly turn into a frustrating ordeal. Let's examine why these packages might not be as great as they appear. This is especially true when you compare them to the flexible choices offered at local stores such as Base Mountain Sports.

1. The Convenience Myth

At first glance, combining lift tickets and rental equipment into a single package seems like a hassle-free solution. You book everything online, pay one price, and theoretically, you’re all set for your trip. However, you often pay the price when you get to your resort destination.

One issue with these packages is that they depend on new or temporary staff. These staff members may lack the necessary experience to provide quality service. During busy times, these employees may be overwhelmed. They might not have the expertise to help you choose the right equipment for your skill level and needs.

Many visitors are attracted to bundled packages, causing large crowds and long wait times. This is especially true in the mornings when everyone is eager to hit the slopes. The high demand for bundled packages leads to increased congestion and delays.

Ski enthusiasts should prepare for the morning crowds and long waits that accompany popular bundled packages. This can create a chaotic environment where rushed staff are more likely to make errors and experience delays.

2. Quality and Fit Issues

When dealing with high volumes of rentals, the priority often shifts to quantity over quality. Vail Resorts, with its large-scale operations, sometimes sacrifices personalized service for efficiency.

Vail Resorts offers a standard service, while local shops like Base Mountain Sports give personalized recommendations. With Vail Resorts, you might end up with gear that doesn't fit properly or isn't adjusted correctly. This can affect your skiing ability and safety.

Generic Equipment: The equipment provided in these packages is often basic and not tailored to individual preferences or skill levels. Base Mountain Sports offers different rental packages to match skiers' needs, providing a better fit between skier and gear.

3. Lack of Flexibility

Bundled packages may lock you into strict schedules and policies that might not fit your personal preferences or changing plans.

Fixed Durations: With these packages, you typically commit to a set duration for both rentals and lift tickets. This lack of flexibility can be inconvenient if your plans change, such as wanting to take a break or extending your stay. Base Mountain allows for renters to pick up their gear the evening before, starting at 3pm, for no additional charge.

Rigid Rules: It can be difficult to change your rental gear or upgrade your package during your trip with big companies and getting a hold of an actual human on the phone is extremely challenging. Base Mountain Sports offers free upgrades and flexible rental durations to better meet your changing needs. Also, we have friendly humans who are reachable via at each of our rental locations.

4. Local vs. Corporate Experience

Choosing a local shop like Base Mountain Sports over a corporate giant like Vail Resorts offers a different, often superior, experience.

Authentic Mountain Experience: Local shops have deep roots in the community and a genuine passion for the sport. This translates into better customer service and a more personalized experience. Base Mountain Sports is proud of its staff who are outdoor enthusiasts. They provide expert advice and high-quality service.

Support local businesses by shopping at local stores. This helps the community and preserves the special charm of mountain towns. Corporate chains lack this personal touch and can feel more like a conveyor belt operation.

Don't let Corporations ruin your vacation stoke

Renting and buying lift tickets from Vail Resorts may not be as convenient as it seems. Problems with new employees, delays, inflexibility, and less personal service can make your ski trip a logistical nightmare.

For a better, customizable experience, rent equipment from local shops like Base Mountain Sports instead of bundled packages. Choose local businesses for better service and equipment. Support the community and preserve the mountain town's unique spirit. Enjoy the benefits of choosing local businesses.