Hit the slopes with plenty of cover this winter
Ski and snowboard enthusiasts looking to hit the slopes this winter should ensure they have adequate travel insurance cover in place for themselves and their families, and this must include winter sports cover, says MoneySupermarket.com.
Research from Britain's number one comparison site reveals that policies covering winter sports can vary a great deal from provider to provider, with exclusions and caveats commonplace as well as coverage levels. It is therefore crucial to check the small print.
A family of four hitting the slopes for a week in Europe can insure themselves for as little as £16 with OUL Direct, which covers winter sports equipment, piste closure, and off-piste skiing. For an additional £20, regular travellers could opt for an annual policy with annualtravelinsurance.com 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. So for those planning multiple winter sports trips they may not be covered for the whole time they are on the piste.
Bob Atkinson, travel expert at MoneySupermarket, 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. At a time when people are looking to make the most of their holiday money, finding the best value for money travel insurance policies will give thrill-seekers extra cash to enjoy the après-ski entertainment!"
Skiers should pay close attention to the detail of their policies and ensure it includes 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 essential to check whether emergency transport to hospital and back home is included in the policy wording under medical expenses.
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: "Making sure you have appropriate travel cover for your ski holiday shouldn't break the bank - there are competitive deals out there for jet-setters prepared to shop around online for the best deals. Snow lovers should 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. Families who travel more than once in a year may find annual travel insurance is a more cost effective option, but check the maximum number of days of skiing allowed under the policy. It is vital to check the small print on these policies to so you know exactly what you are covered for while away.
"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 such a card, check it is still in date for your trip.
"Checking for local insurances when you arrive in resort can also be advantageous as some schemes allow immediate help without the need to contact your travel insurer to make sure you are covered."