Get your winter sports insurance

As the cooler weather arrives around 1.3 million skiers and boarders will be starting to plan their trip to the slopes this winter. Along with the cost of the holiday, the expense of new kit, hired equipment and lift passes, enthusiasts must remember to include the cost in winter sports travel insurance in their budget. Not buying cover may save you a few pounds before you go but could cost you thousands of pounds if you have an accident on the slopes.

Check your cover

For anyone heading off to the slopes it is vital to make sure their travel insurance includes winter sports cover. A normal travel insurance policy does not usual include this. By shopping around skiers and boarders will find that a good travel insurance policy need not cost the earth.

A good winter sports travel insurance policy should include cover for skiing or boarding, piste closure, ski equipment, medical costs including rescue and repatriation and luggage. Your policy should include a minimum of £2 million for medical expenses and £1 million for personal liability. Check the limits for cancellation and baggage cover are sufficient. If you are travelling to Europe remember your European Health Insurance Card, this entitles you to emergency treatment on the same terms as a national in all EU countries.

Not all winter sports policies provide the same level of cover so read the small print carefully. If you are planning on taking part in other adrenalin fuelling activities, such as tobogganing, ice skating, snow-mobiling or heli-skiing, check whether your standard policy will cover you. Watch out for standard policy exclusions. Most policies will not cover you for pre-existing medical conditions or any claim as result of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Think about an annual policy

If you intend to go on more that one holiday this year, look into buying annual travel insurance as these are likely to work out more cost effective. Some annual polices automatically include winters sports cover, for others you may have to pay an additional premium.

If you have been offered ‘free’ travel insurance from your bank or credit card, check the small print carefully as you may have to pay extra to include winter sports.