Have piste of mind on the slopes this winter
Skiers and snowboarders set to hit the slopes this winter should ensure they have a sufficient level of travel insurance cover in place for themselves and families, and this must include winter sports cover, says MoneySuperMarket.com.
Research from the comparison site reveals winter sports policies can vary hugely from provider to provider, with exclusions and caveats commonplace as well as differentiating coverage levels - so it’s crucial to scan the small print.
A family of four planning a ski trip for a week in Europe can insure themselves for £21.14 with insurefor.com which offers £750 worth of cover for personal baggage and £350 for ski equipment cover with excesses of £150 for each. For just £11 more, the same family will benefit from £1,500 baggage cover plus £1,000 ski equipment cover with a lower excess of £100. Alternatively, regular travellers could opt for an annual policy which would provide protection for all trips planned over the year and also includes winter sports cover.
Frequent skiers and snowboarders should be aware that some policies only cover hitting the slopes for a set number of days per year or a maximum number of ski trips. Those planning multiple winter sports trips should note they may not be covered for the whole time they are on the piste.
Bob Atkinson, travel expert at MoneySuperMarket.com, said: “Travel insurance is an essential item when planning any holiday and even more so for a trip involving adrenaline-fuelled winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Finding the best value for money travel insurance policies allows your money to go further on your trip and will give thrill-seekers extra cash to enjoy the après-ski scene whilst leaving you adequately covered.”
Skiers and snowboarders should pay close attention to the detail of their policies and ensure they include winter sports protection such as piste closure, avalanche closure and off-piste skiing. In the event of a more a serious injury, where extensive treatment and air ambulance repatriation are needed, the cost could rack up into tens of thousands of pounds. It is therefore vital to check whether emergency transport to hospital and back home is included in the policy wording under medical expenses. If in doubt make sure you get in touch with your insurer direct to enquire.
In addition to adequate travel insurance, it may also be worth paying a small premium when in a resort for local insurance which covers rescue and transport on or off-piste. For example, skiers in France can purchase a Carré Neige pass for a few Euros per day which covers rescue and some basic doctor’s bills.
Bob Atkinson continued: “Ensuring you have the right level of travel cover for your ski holiday shouldn’t break the bank – there are competitive deals out there for globe-trotters prepared to shop around online for the best deals. Snow lovers should also check that on top of the usual standard criteria such as cancellation, baggage cover and medical expenses, their policy includes winter sports protection such as cover for sports equipment, ski pass, or going off-piste. It is essential to check the small print on these policies to so you know exactly what you are covered for while away. Whilst the cheapest policies will ensure you have more money in your pocket, you may find that you won’t be covered enough, especially for expensive ski equipment. Reading the policy wording before you buy will prevent any nasty surprises in the event of a claim.
“In addition to your travel insurance, for those holidaying in a European Union country securing an EHIC before heading off (European Health Insurance Card) is another essential. This entitles you to state-provided healthcare in European Union member states, but it should not be considered a replacement for travel cover. If you already hold an EHIC, check it is still in date ahead of your trip.
“Checking for local insurances when you arrive in resort can also be beneficial as some schemes allow immediate help without the need to contact your travel insurer to make sure you are covered.”