Skiers and snowboarders advised to get travel cover

Millions of Britons will be looking to beat the January Blues by heading off for ski and snowboard trips, just make sure that adequate travel cover is in place says leading insurer MORE TH>N.

Some travellers think that a European Health Insurance Certificate (EHIC) removes the need for them to have insurance - however, there are many circumstances in which this might leave you unprotected. If you are going skiing you need to make sure that your travel insurance includes cover for winter sports, in worst case scenario, a rescue from the mountains is very costly and you don't want to be left with the bill!

MORE TH>N have put together some winter travel tips to help travellers stay safe and covered when heading for the mountains:

Don't ski or board off-piste unless you are with a qualified guide as many travel policies won't cover you for this.

If you are a new skier, take professional lessons - don't rely on friends or family to teach you. Don't try runs that you are not ready for.

If you are planning a ski trip, bring your fitness levels up before hand so that your body is prepared for the physical endurance required - accidents often happen because people are physically exhausted.

Any claims that involve medical or hospital treatment should immediately be reported to your insurer.

Medical expenses that occur as a result of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs are often excluded from your travel insurance cover. So don't drink and ski!

Take a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you, as well as adequate travel insurance. This will give you reduced cost or sometimes free medical treatment in 28 European countries. Get an EHIC on-line at dh.gov.uk/travellers, apply by phone on 0845 606 2030 or get an application form from the Post Office.

Head of Travel at MORE TH>N, Matt Pernet said, "Taking a ski or snowboarding trip is great fun, travellers need to make sure that they stay safe though. It is important to get your travel insurance in place, as accidents can and do happen on the slopes. However, if you ski safely, on runs suited to your ability, you can help lower the risk of injury ruining your holiday."