Ski and winter sports travel insurance

What is ski and winter sports travel insurance?

Ski and winter sports travel insurance covers the unique risks that come with winter sports. This includes activities like skiing and snowboarding. This is an add-on policy, meaning you can include it on single trip, family or annual cover. It includes protection for things like piste closures, lost ski passes and equipment damage. You’ll be covered for accidents that happen both on and off the slopes.

Benefits: Why is ski and winter sports travel insurance so important?

Ski holidays typically come with expensive gear and riskier activities. 53% of winter sports injuries occur during skiing and snowboarding. This is why having the right insurance is essential. From minor tumbles to more serious injuries, medical costs abroad can quickly add up, especially in mountain resorts where airlift rescue or private clinics are common. 

Here are a few reasons why winter sports insurance is so important: 

• Covers repatriation costs. An air ambulance from France back to Ireland starts at £4,500. With travel insurance, you’re covered for pre-existing conditions you declare. This means you won’t have to pay for medical treatment or repatriation home if you have an accident.‍
• Ski equipment cover. We all know how expensive lost or damaged ski gear can be. Travel insurance helps cover the cost if you lose or damage your winter gear.
• ‍Covers cancellation. Having to cancel your trip is never ideal. But sometimes it can’t be helped. Whether your ski day is cancelled due to bad weather or you miss a flight connection, it can cost a lot. But with the right cover, we can reimburse you for prepaid costs, like accommodation, lift passes and transport¹

Equipment

This typically includes skis (including bindings), ski boots, ski poles and snowboards. Your own or hired winter sports equipment is typically covered for:

• Loss, theft or accidental damage. If your equipment is lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip, you can claim for repair or replacement costs up to the policy limit.‍
• Delayed equipment. Your skis or snowboard could be delayed in transit. If so, we can reimburse the cost of hiring replacement gear while you wait.
• ‍Hired equipment cover. Planning on renting gear? If it’s lost or damaged, we can help cover the charges from the rental provider.

Ski trip add-ons

Have you prepaid for ski trip extras? Ski pack cover helps recover costs if you can't use them due to illness or injury during your trip.

This typically includes:

• Pre-booked lift passes
• Hired skis, boots and poles
• Ski school fees and lessons

These add-ons can be a big part of your trip budget. Ski pack cover makes sure you’re not out of pocket if you can’t hit the slopes. 

Piste closure

Bad weather or a lack of snow can lead to forced slope closures. You may be able to claim for transport to an alternative resort and compensation for each day affected.

Check your Policy Wording, section 15, page 36, for more information on what this specifically covers.

Avalanche Closure

If an avalanche happens before or during your trip, we can cover you for:

• Any delays to your arrival or departure from a resort
• Access to ski areas if an avalanche cuts you off
• Access to accommodation due to an avalanche 

We may also be able to cover you for some additional accommodation or transport costs. Cover applies if the disruption exceeds the set time threshold (usually 12 hours or more).

Accidents on the slopes

While unfortunate, it’s not uncommon to have an accident on the slopes. From minor sprains to major injuries, this is where winter cover comes in handy. With it, you’ll get:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Mountain rescue and ambulance fees (including helicopter evacuation)
• Repatriation to Ireland if medically necessary

Remember that many private ski clinics require payment up front, and your insurance can save you thousands.

Off-piste activities 

You're only covered for off-piste activities like skiing or snowboarding if you have the appropriate additional Winter sports cover Premium. Here is what you can also be covered for:

• Cross-country skiing (on recognised paths)
• Dry skiing
• Inner tubing (in snow)
• Mono skiing (on Snow)
• Off-piste skiing (Hazardous activities cover also required)
• Skiing
• Sledging
• Sleigh rides
• Snow boarding
• Snow mobile
• Snow shoeing
• Tobogganing

What’s not covered by the snow and winter sports travel insurance add-on?

While winter sports insurance will keep you protected on the slopes, there are important exclusions to be aware of. Some scenarios aren't covered, or could void your policy altogether.

This is why you must read and understand your Policy Wording beforehand. 

Main instances that won’t be covered include:

• Leaving ski or snowboarding equipment unattended or unsecured
• Off-piste skiing without a qualified guide (unless stated otherwise in your policy)
• Accidents under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Failing to declare pre-existing medical conditions
• Taking part in unlisted or hazardous activities without declaring them
• Claims related to events that were foreseeable at the time of purchase (e.g. already being ill or injured)

Please make sure you read our Policy Wording – that’s where you’ll see exactly what’s included, and what’s not.

Will an EHIC cover you for skiing in Europe?

Your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) only covers basic medical treatment. You won't be protected for mountain rescue, repatriation, or private medical care. All of which are important if you’re injured while skiing or snowboarding.

For example, prices for an air ambulance from Europe to the UK or Ireland typically start from £8,000. Some long-distance or intensive care cases exceed £20,000. That’s why ski and winter sports insurance is essential, even if you’re skiing within the EU.

How much does ski and winter sports trip insurance cost?

The price of ski and winter sports insurance varies depending on several factors. These are used to understand the level of risk and value of the trip. Here are the main factors that can affect the price:

• Your age. Older travellers may pay more due to the increased risk of ski and winter sports accidents.
• Destination. Skiing in North America is usually more expensive to insure than European trips.
• Duration. Longer trips can mean higher premiums.
• Level of cover. Higher limits for equipment, medical expenses, or cancellations will cost more.
• Pre-existing medical conditions. Declaring these may increase the cost, but it’s essential to stay fully covered.‍
• Type of winter sports. More extreme or off-piste activities may push up the premium and often need specialist add-ons.

How can you reduce the price of your policy? 

Winter sports cover doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. Yes, insuring expensive equipment like skis and snowboards can increase your premium. However, there are a few ways you can make savings. 

• Travel as a couple, group or family. Joint and family policies often work out cheaper than buying individual cover.
• Only pay for what you need. Avoid over-insuring and try to match your policy to your trip length, destination and planned activities.
• Use annual cover if skiing more than once a year. An annual multi-trip policy with winter sports included can be better value for regular skiers.
• Book early. Buying early gives you cancellation protection and may offer better rates.‍
• Compare policies. Make sure you’re getting the best value for your needs, not just the cheapest price.

Why choose JustCover for your ski and winter sports holiday insurance?

Taking part in winter sports always comes with a few additional risks. From snowboarding accidents to lost equipment and piste closures, there’s a lot that could go wrong. Winter sports cover helps protect you from these events, so you can continue enjoying your winter getaway.

• 98% of customers rate us as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’²
• Unlimited medical expenses and repatriation cover in the USA
• Up to €10,000 for trip cancellations or curtailments³
• 24/7 emergency helpline, ready whenever you need us
• Cover for 1,300+ medical conditions, including terminal diagnoses
• Optional extras like gadget, cruise and activities insurance

When to buy ski and winter sports trip insurance

It’s best to book your ski and winter sports travel insurance as early as possible. So, as soon as you’ve paid for any part of your trip, such as flights or accommodation. That way, you’ll be covered straight away for cancellations and other unexpected events before departure.

You can buy ski insurance up until the day you travel. Once your trip has begun, it’s usually too late to start a new policy. JustCover policies must be purchased before you leave Ireland.

Tips and recommendations for your winter and ski holiday

Planning a ski or snowboard trip is always exciting. But, making sure you’re properly covered is just as important as packing your thermals. Three main things you need to think about are:

1. Where you’re heading - Not all ski resorts offer the same level of access to emergency care or facilities. Plus, medical costs can vary wildly between countries.  For example, treatment in the US or Canada can be much more expensive than in parts of Europe. Always check if your policy includes cover for your specific region. Read up on local safety guidance before you go.‍
2. Who’s going with you - Are you travelling solo, with a partner, or as part of a group or family? The type of policy you choose should reflect this. For couples or groups, it’s usually easier and more cost-effective to get a joint policy. Are you travelling with kids or older relatives? Make sure the policy includes cover for family members of all ages.‍
3. Your current health - Pre-existing medical conditions don’t have to stop you from enjoying the slopes. You just need to declare them when buying your policy. Certain conditions can increase the risks at high altitudes and colder temperatures. We need to know about any treatment, medication, or recent diagnoses before your trip. If you don’t declare them, it could invalidate your cover. 

Tips for your travel insurance policy

Ready for your winter holiday? Here are six quick tips to help make sure your travel insurance works for you:

1. Get the winter sports add-on. Standard travel insurance may not include skiing, snowboarding or off-piste activities.
2. Declare all pre-existing medical conditions. This will make sure you’re protected if you need emergency treatment abroad – even on the slopes.
3. Check what activities are covered. Not all policies include snowmobiling, heli-skiing, or ice climbing. Always review the full activity list before heading out.
4. Protect your equipment. Whether you’re hiring or bringing your own skis, make sure your policy covers accidental damage, theft or loss.
5. Read the small print. Policies vary when it comes to alcohol use, off-piste activities, and avalanche warnings. So be aware of what could void your cover.
6. Buy early. Purchase insurance as soon as you book your trip to ensure you're covered for cancellations or delays from the get-go.

How to stay safe on your winter sports holiday

Over 90% of accidents on snow sports slopes are self-inflicted. Authorities say skiers and snowboarders often overestimate their abilities. So it always pays to be careful before hitting the slopes!

Remember to:

• Wear essential ski safety gear, like a helmet, goggles and a tracksuit
• Know your limits, don’t attempt black runs if you’re a beginner, stay in your lane
• Take part in ski schools if you’re new to skiing
• Don’t consume alcohol before skiing; it’s dangerous, and you won’t be covered if something happens
• Always wear suncream even on cloudy days, as snow reflects UV rays
• Take note of avalanche-prone areas and always be aware
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help from instructors if you need to