6 Best Ski Pass and Lift Ticket Holders
- January 10, 2021
Lift lines just got easier! If you have been looking for a better way to hold onto your ski pass, you have come to the right place. Here we have listed the best ski pass holders to make getting onto the mountain a breeze. Spend less time fumbling in lift lines and have your pass or lift ticket ready to go with one of these ski pass holders.
Ski Pass and Lift Ticket Holders: Product Overview
- Hands-free pass scanning
- Fits goggle straps
- Fun color options
- Two compartments
- Durable materials
- Comfortable & adjustable
- Waterproof pouch
- Highly adjustable & fits most
- Durable design
- Bright neon colors
- Comfortable & lightweight
- Great 2-pack deal
Why Ski Pass Holders Are Useful
Whether you plan on skiing at a large resort or the local ski hill, it’s a good idea to have a ski pass holder. It helps ensure you don’t lose your pass and makes getting it scanned in the lift line much easier. If you’re a beginner, this becomes even more important as many resorts require passes to be scanned at the base lifts, which is typically where the green, or beginner, terrain is located. With kids, simply getting onto the lift can be a process!
This is especially true at smaller ski areas that require you to show your pass to the lift operators. However, even at bigger resorts, the RFID technology sometimes has trouble detecting your pass, especially if it’s loosely stored in one of your pockets. Using a goggle strap ski pass holder or armband helps you remember exactly where your pass is at and keeps it in place. This way you’re not left behind on the chairlift, awkwardly doing a jig trying to get the scanner to register your pass.
In addition, you may have multiple ski jackets and pants that you wear throughout the season. If you plan to just keep your ski pass in your pocket, you might forget it when you decide to change outfits. I know I personally have struggled with this and once had to get my pass reprinted at the resort, wasting precious time at the base when I could have been on the slopes.
For skiers on vacation, some resorts will give you a lanyard with your lift ticket. This technically works fine but can be a hassle while skiing. You’ll want to tuck it in underneath your jacket so that it doesn’t fly around or get caught on the chairlift. So, depending on the resort, you may have to constantly tuck your ski pass lanyard in and out of your ski jacket to get scanned, which can become a hassle, especially with gloves on.
Best Ski Pass Holders
At a Glance
- Type: Helmet Goggle Strap
- Quantity: Single or 2-Pack
Favorite Features
- Hands-free pass scanning
- Fits nicely on your goggle straps
- Comes in a variety of bright colors
The Details
If you’re looking for a simple solution to carry your ski pass on the slopes, The Liftie is it. This pass holder securely attaches to your goggle straps and contours to the shape of your helmet. It fits the standard-sized season pass and works for both adults and kids.
The Liftie allows you to get your pass scanned at the lift without any fuss. By attaching it directly to your helmet, you won’t forget or lose it. This ski pass holder has been tested and works properly with all barcode and RFID technology.
At a Glance
- Type: Armband
- Quantity: Single
Favorite Features
- Two compartments allows you to carry more items
- Made of durable, weather resistant materials
- Comfortable and easy to adjust
The Details
The most versatile option on the list, the Adjustable Nylon Armband can fit your ski pass, as well as your ID or credit cards while you’re on the mountain. There is a clear window with a hook and loop closure for your ski pass, as well as a zippered pocket for your other valuables.
Water resistant and washable, this ski pass holder can be used over the course of multiple seasons. In addition, double stitching increases its durability. The velcro elastic that wraps around your arm is both comfortable and adjustable and ensures the pass holder stays on as you ski or board.
At a Glance
- Type: Helmet Goggle Strap
- Quantity: Single
Favorite Features
- Minimalistic, streamlined design
- Ski pass is easily accessible on your helmet
- Constructed with strong snaps and weather resistant materials
The Details
The Goggle Pocket ski pass holder has a simple, no-frills design that is perfect for any skier or boarder. All you have to do is place your pass into the Goggle Pocket and then attach it to your goggle straps. No more trying to remember which pocket your pass is in or digging out your lanyard from under your jacket!
The snaps to attach the ski pass holder to your goggle strap are strong and secure. The holder has an open frame design so that the lift operations staff can easily scan your pass. Built with winter weather resistant materials, the Goggle Pocket should be a long-term solution for you.
At a Glance
- Type: Armband
- Quantity: Single, 5-Pack, or 25-Pack
Favorite Features
- Waterproof pouch protects ski pass
- Highly adjustable armband to fit all sizes
- Designed to be durable to last all ski season long
The Details
Designed specifically with winter in mind, the Heavy Duty Water Resistant Armband is great for carrying your ski pass. A waterproof pouch that can be zip sealed protects your pass from the elements and keeps it in place for when you need it in the lift line.
The armband is adjustable to fit kids and adults in varying layers. Strong, durable plastic and velcro allow this ski pass holder to last several seasons. In sight but out of mind, this armband ski pass holder keeps your pass visible to lift personnel without feeling cumbersome to you.
At a Glance
- Type: Armband
- Quantity: 2-Pack
Favorite Features
- Bright neon colors help you find your party in the lift line
- Comfortable and lightweight on your arm
- Great deal for a 2-pack set of ski pass holders
The Details
Available in a 2-pack, the High Visibility Armband Ski Pass Holders are comfortable, lightweight, and water resistant. Also, the bright neon colors help kids stand out on the slopes. Simply open the protector from the top, insert your ski pass, and fold the flap over.
The elastic armbands are adjustable to customize the ski pass holder to the perfect fit. They can also comfortably be worn over your ski jacket so that they’re visible to lift operators. Compatible with RFID scanning technology, these ski pass holders are a great value for couples and families.
At a Glance
- Type: Retractable
- Quantity: Single, 5-Pack, or 100-Pack
Favorite Features
- Can be attached to your ski jacket or pants
- Long cord makes it easy to display your ski pass
- Retracting lanyard is durable and stable
The Details
The Heavy Duty Retractable Ski Pass Holder can be attached to your ski jacket zipper or ski pants belt loop to easily access your pass on the slopes. With a long reach, yet compact size, this ski pass holder is convenient and inconspicuous as you’re skiing or riding.
The lobster claw carabiner securely attaches to your clothing, making it easy to show your ski pass to resort staff. Although a great value for the price, this is not our favorite style ski pass holder simply because it does not protect your pass from the elements. The pass holder itself is durable, but you have to be careful to not scratch or damage your pass.
More Ski Pass and Lift Ticket Holders
Tips for Buying a Ski Pass Holder
Placement: Where to Keep Your Ski Pass
The most important factor to consider when looking for the best ski pass holders is their placement. There are three main ways to attach your ski pass holder: to your goggle strap, to your arm, or to a zipper or belt loop.
Ski pass holders that attach to your goggle strap, and therefore rest on your helmet, are great because you’ll always have your helmet with you on the mountain. You can leave the ski pass holder attached at the end of the day so you never have to worry about forgetting your pass at home.
Armband ski pass holders are another option to keep your pass safe and secure. These work well and can usually be detected by scanners even if worn beneath your ski jacket. With the ski pass armbands, however, you have to take it off after each time of use and remember to bring it with you the next time you go skiing or riding.
Lastly, retractable ski pass holders can be connected to one of your zippers or belt loops. If you plan on wearing the same ski jacket or pants throughout the season, you can leave this type of ski pass holder on so you always have it ready to go (just don’t forget to take it off when you wash your ski clothes). The biggest disadvantage of ski pass holders that are retractable is that they may not have a pouch or pocket to keep the pass covered. If this is the case, your pass will be exposed to the elements and won’t be protected from getting scratched or damaged.
Quality & Comfort
This likely goes without saying, but finding the best ski pass holders is dependent on quality. If you’re looking for a solution that will last over multiple seasons, you need something that’s durable and well designed. Finding the cheapest ski pass holder on Amazon may not be the best strategy. All of the choices on our list are designed to endure winter weather conditions and have received positive customer reviews when it comes to durability.
In addition, your ski pass holder should be comfortable to wear. This is especially important for armband ski pass holders. If you opt for one of these, make sure to try it on before you go skiing or boarding. Take time to adjust the velcro so that it fits your arm just right and is in a comfortable position that won’t bother you while you’re on the mountain.
For skiers specifically, we recommend wearing it firmly around your bicep so that it doesn’t slip down to your elbow. With poles, you’re typically bending your arms, so it can be uncomfortable if your ski pass armband is resting at that junction. Alternatively, you can transform it into a wrist ski pass holder if the velcro can be adjusted tight enough.
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Ski Pass Holders: FAQs
Where do you attach your ski pass?
Ski pass holders are a great way to attach your ski pass. The Liftie Helmet Goggle Strap Holder is our top pick. In addition, some ski jackets have a specific ski pass pocket to store your ski pass in. They are typically located on the arm or the interior of the chest. Alternatively, most ski pants have a zippered pocket as well. If you decide to attach your ski pass by keeping it in a clothing pocket, make sure not to put your phone or other cards in the same pocket as this might interfere with the resort’s scanning technology.
How do ski lift tickets attach?
If you’re visiting a resort, ski lift tickets are often given to guests with either a zip tie or lanyard that can be worn around your neck. With a zip tie, you can attach the lift ticket to one of your jacket or pant pockets. We recommend not attaching it to your main ski jacket zipper because when you have it fully zipped up, the lift ticket will be right below your chin and will fly into your face while you’re skiing. However, we recommend getting a ski pass holder to keep it safe and accessible for when it needs to be scanned by the lift operators. Some of the best ski pass holders include The Liftie, which attaches your ski lift ticket to your goggle strap, and the Adjustable Nylon Armband, which fits snug on your arm.
How do you wear a ski pass?
With a ski pass holder, there are a few different options to wear your ski pass. You can wear it on your goggle strap so that the ski pass holder rests securely on your helmet. Or, if you prefer, you can wear it on your arm using an armband ski pass holder, keeping it in sight but out of mind. Lastly, you can wear it on your ski jacket or pants with a retractable ski pass holder, which has a fastener or carabiner to attach the pass to your clothing.
Final Thoughts
Ski pass and lift ticket holders are a great way to keep your ski pass attached and accessible on the slopes. Although you may have a ski pass pocket in your jacket, a specific pass holder can be beneficial. The best ski pass holders are RFID-compatible and hands-free, meaning you don’t have to worry about fumbling to get your ski pass out with your gloves on. Keeping you and your family organized, ski pass holders make getting onto the mountain a stress-free experience.
