SkiSync General FAQs
Below is an extensive list of FAQs about all areas of SkiSync and our trips! Please be sure to review this document in detail prior to reaching out with questions, it’s very likely you’ll find the answer here!
Trip Selection FAQ
Getting Started
- Are the trips for college students only?
SkiSync offers trips for any family, independent or post-grad group, such as Alumni ski trips, Graduate Programs, or Students, Medical or Law Students, Corporate groups, or events.
If you are planning a birthday party, bachelor or bachelorette trip, family holiday, or just a group of friends trying to get on the slopes, we've got you!
- What size group does SkiSync specialize in?
We are the group travel gurus and can help you customize a trip, accommodating any group size, from the resort selection phase to booking talent for your private event. Contact us, and a representative will be in touch.
Pre-Departure FAQ
Packing & Rentals
- What if I don’t own any ski gear?
You can conveniently rent your gear through SkiSync before the trip for as many days as you need. Whether it’s helmets, gloves, skis, snowboards, or poles, we’ve got you covered. While on-site rentals are also available at the resort, discounted rates are only available for pre-paid customers.
Group discounts are not available for “day of” or “walk up” rental selections and adjustments to prepaid packages are not guaranteed within 2 weeks of the trip after our partners have confirmed any group reservations.
- Is it better to rent my gear?
Even if you own your own gear, renting can be a smart move. Avoid costly airline baggage fees and travel lighter. SkiSync-approved vendors offer an extensive selection of the latest equipment at a discounted rate, so you can hit the slopes, hassle-free.
- What if I’m a first-time skier/boarder? How do I select the right equipment?
Rentals are broken down into proficiency levels (Beginner Sport, Intermediate, Advanced Demo or Level I, Level II, Level III). Typically, beginner skiers/boarders would want to start with the Level 1 beginner packages. We recommend speaking to the onsite shop staff when picking up your rentals to ensure you’ve selected the most appropriate package.
- If I want to try both skiing and snowboarding, can I purchase both types of rentals?
If you’re new to the slopes or an infrequent visitor to the mountains, our suggestion is to stick to one discipline, since your days on the mountain are limited. However, it is absolutely possible to rent both types of equipment using the same lift ticket.
To avoid paying twice for gear, plan your schedule so you use one type of equipment at a time and return rentals on days you won’t be using them
When scheduling your rentals, please be sure to select only one type of rental at a time to ensure you are not charged for both types of rentals during your trip.
Travel Insurance
- Do I need travel insurance?
- How do I obtain travel insurance for my upcoming trip?
The option to book or add group insurance to your invoice is available during registration or prior to completing payment for your trip by logging in to your SkiSync account here.
- Ineligible States
If you are a resident of these states, TBD
- Who do I contact with questions regarding my insurance claim?
Please contact insurance@skisync.com with questions relating to the policy you have purchased with SkiSync.
- (OL Version) Who do I contact with questions regarding my insurance claim?
Please contact info@outsidelife.com with questions relating to the policy you have purchased with Outside Life.
Trip Profile & Invoices
- If I’ve already booked my trip, how do I find my invoice and trip itinerary?
To view your trip details, including your invoice, visit gw.skisync.com and log in using the credentials you created during registration. Your profile will show your current trip package. You can view your itemized invoice under "View Invoice" and make payments via "Make a Payment." Your full itinerary will be sent 1–2 weeks before your trip.
If you've been on multiple SkiSync trips, make sure the correct trip is selected in the dropdown at the top of the page.
- Is it possible to make updates to my invoice after I’m registered?
You can make changes to your trip by logging into your profile or contacting your trip leader to confirm the trip details.
To log in, visit gw.skisync.com and use the username and password you created during registration. Then, go to the "Manage/Update Trip Details" section.
Please note: Adjustments to prepaid packages are not guaranteed within 2 weeks of the trip after our partners have confirmed any group reservations. If the window to make changes online has passed, contact SkiSync Customer Service for assistance.
- What if I need to change or cancel my flight or charter bus reservation?
Please contact transportation@skisync.com, and we'll be happy to assist. Every provider is different, and some have strict policies on changes and cancellations. We always do our best to accommodate but if it's a non-refundable ticket, fees will apply (SkiSync is not responsible for fees incurred by transportation providers).
Passports & Visas
- Do I need a passport?
Anyone traveling outside of the United States (including Canada and Mexico) will need a passport. Refer to the government passport website for information on how to apply or renew your passport. Make sure to give yourself ample time to complete the application and renewal process!
- How will I know if a visa is required for the trip I am taking?
SkiSync recommends you check with your local embassy as visa rules can change without warning. Embassy websites in your home country is the best place to look for information about requirements, visa costs, and they will provide the required forms. Please see the US guide to visas here.
- Are there any new travel documents I should be aware of in 2025/26?
- When did the Real ID Act go into effect?
- May 7, 2025
- What is the Real ID?
- The REAL ID Act requires states to issue IDs that meet federal security standards to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative like a passport is required for these purposes. You can check if your current driver's license or state ID is REAL ID compliant, and if not, you can apply for a REAL ID or another accepted form of identification here.
- Who does this affect?
- All U.S. residents age 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID to board domestic flights and enter certain secure federal facilities. However, the REAL ID requirements primarily affect those who wish to use their driver's license or state ID as their primary form of identification for these purposes.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System)
- When does Etias go into effect?
- No action is required from travellers at this point.
- ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026. The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.
- What is Etias?
- ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation. Who should apply?
- With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions.
- Who does Etias effect?
- The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will affect citizens of countries that are currently visa-exempt for short-term visits to the Schengen Area. This includes countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia.
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)
- When did ETA go into effect?
- The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement became effective on January 8, 2025.
- Who does the ETA affect?
- The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) affects anyone traveling through the UK who doesn't need a visa for short visits (up to six months) and doesn't have UK immigration status. This includes citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, who previously could travel to the UK without a visa.
- What is the ETA?
- An ETA allows you to travel to the UK to visit for up to 6 months. Whether you can apply depends on your nationality as shown on your passport.
- Do you need an eta for a layover in the uk
- Yes, a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for a layover in the UK if you need to pass through UK border control. However, if your layover is solely airside (you don't pass through immigration), you may not need an ETA
After Arrival FAQ
Checking In
- Where do I go when I get to the resort?
Detailed instructions with an address for check-in are emailed to you 1-2 weeks prior to arrival. If you've forgotten this information or still aren't quite sure, you can contact your group's trip leader for details.
- What time can I check-in to my lodging accommodations?
In most cases, your room will be available after 4:00pm. If you arrive earlier, you’ll be able to store your luggage at your property and head out to explore for a couple hours. All of this information will be shared with you directly 1-2 weeks prior to your arrival date.
- Where do I pick up my lift tickets, lesson vouchers, rentals, etc.?
Detailed check-in instructions are emailed to you 1-2 weeks prior to arrival. If you're still unsure after arrival, you can contact one of your group's trip leaders.
- What is customary for tipping when I’m traveling in the mountains?
Your service providers will be so happy you asked! Here are a few people who would appreciate tips that you may not have thought about – shuttle drivers, baggage handlers, hotel concierges, and lesson instructors. SkiSync employees do not accept tips...only coffee and high fives.
- Is there SkiSync staff on-site during my trip?
Many of our trips offer SkiSync staff on-site to assist with services such as on-site transportation, event organization, resort check-in, and help with any questions or concerns throughout the trip.
Please check your trip itinerary and email for exact dates, times and locations that our staff will be available.
You can also always contact the real people at our customer support team by phone at (855) 754-7962 or email at info@skisync.com anytime before, during, or after your trip.
Who to Contact
- What if I have specific questions about my lodging accommodations?
For any questions you may have that were not answered in your trip confirmation, please contact info@skisync.com or during your stay, the front desk of your lodging property which can provide direct assistance with questions about your unit.
- Who do I contact with questions about my trip invoice?
Please contact info@skisync.com with any questions regarding your trip. Be sure to include your trip name and trip dates so it can be directed to the appropriate account manager.
- What if I can’t reach my Group Trip Leader or Mountain Reservation Specialist?
Contact SkiSync’s main office at 855-SKI-SYNC or send us an email at info@skisync.com. Make sure you include your Trip Name, Dates of Travel and Resort Destination in email.
- Who do I contact with questions regarding insurance?
Please contact insurance@skisync.com with questions relating to the policy you have purchased with SkiSync.
- Who do I contact if my flight is delayed/cancelled because of weather?
If you’re scheduled for a seat on the charter bus from the airport please notify your group's trip leader and transportaion@skisync.com. If you reserved an airport transfer independently, contact the shuttle company holding your booking.
Payments & Financial FAQ
Payments & Financial
- Is SkiSync financially secure?
Yes. SkiSync operates within a family of businesses that have been growing since 1997.
- What happens to my money when I pay for my trip?
When SkiSync receives trip payments, the money is deposited into a Trust Account. It’s securely held in that Trust Account and used to pay expenses associated to your trip and remains there until the day you depart for your trip. Why is that? It's mandated by the State of California (where SkiSync is incorporated), so that in the unlikely event that SkiSync have financial problems, your money is safe and available to you for a full refund.
- Does SkiSync offer payment plans?
Yes, SkiSync has partnered with Flex Pay to offer "travel now pay later" payment plans for trips. Please visit Flex Pay’s terms of use for all details regarding the Flex Pay service.
Website & Technical FAQ
Technical Issues
- What do I do if I’m having technical issues when registering for a trip
Please contact the SkiSync Tech Team at techsupport@skisync.com or simply reach out using our contact form. One of our tech-gurus will get back to you with an answer.
- What if I receive a message that my credit card/information is invalid?
The most common reasons for this error would be that the billing address on your profile does not match the card of use or that the card was a Discover Card, which our system does not accept.
If it is neither of these issues, we recommend that you contact your bank first to confirm the purchase is not being blocked as fraudulent, prior to reaching out to our tech support team.
- What if I received an "Avalanche" page?
The Avalanche page is an error page most commonly associated with times of high traffic. Our tech team suggests closing the page and beginning the process again. If you were attempting to register and the Avalanche page occurred during the payment process, please first check your email for a confirmation letter from SkiSync. If you’ve received confirmation, then it’s probable that you’ve successfully completed registration. Please send techsupport@skisync.com an email to confirm before attempting registration again.
- Communications
(a) By registering with SkiSync, Client is subscribed to all communications including but not limited to: important trip information, trip announcements, on-site notifications, marketing and promotional material.
(b) Unsubscribing Policy. The Client is free to unsubscribe from SkiSync emails and SMS, however, unsubscribing will result in the Client not receiving important Trip Information such as Check-in Instructions, Invoice Update,s and Transportation Notices.