The true cost of a French ski holiday

With the Winter Olympics in full swing, some may be inspired to book a holiday on the slopes. Ski reps from across France have teamed up with Confused.com to reveal the alarming price differences skiers face when travelling to France, with the most expensive resort being Courchevel.

Skiers visiting Courchevel will pay 26% more for a ski pass than those in neighbouring resorts and will be using equipment that is a whopping 74% more expensive to hire.

Steve Williams, head of travel insurance at Confused.com, said: "Ski holidays are widely recognised as an expensive break away. Looking at the extras people will have to pay, once they get there, gives us an idea of where the French, financial hotspots for skiers are. As a result of rocketing prices and a weak euro, the Alps are at their most expensive. People need to budget correctly to ensure all they need is affordable once they have arrived.'

One element of a winter sports holiday that is an essential purchase is comprehensive insurance. Adding medical bills to an already expensive break must be avoided as the cost of treatment also carries a hefty price tag in Europe.

Williams continued: ‘People may be tempted to look at these prices and risk hitting the slopes without travel insurance. This will be exceptionally risky and a false economy. Our price comparison service will always offer low, competitive prices for travel insurance which is one bill the customer can be certain will not spiral out of control.'