Once the preserve of the rich and famous skiing is now a more populist sport enjoyed by people from all walks of life. In fact according to research by Staysure the UK’s favourite specialist provider of insurance for over 65s, it’s now enjoyed by all ages, from babies who can virtually ski before they can walk to the mature skier with years of experience under their belt and a real love of the sport under their skin.

If like the idea of frolicking in the snow and are looking for a bit more excitement than playing snowballs in your back garden, then a trip to a winter ski resort could be for you. No matter what age or what level of ability, it’s never too late to learn to ski. Apart from great fun, skiing is an aerobic exercise and is good for the heart, stamina and not bad for your figure either. There is always the après-ski for those who get their kicks from the sidelines.

However, it is vital to make sure that you take out adequate ski insurance. Whether you already set the slopes ablaze or are just a beginner the risk of injury can be a worry, ski holidays are statically most likely to end in injury, with the majority of accidents caused by a third party. It can cost as much as £16,000 for treatment for a broken leg in the US and £7,000 in Europe, whilst a mere evacuation from the slopes could set you back £1,600 and don’t even think about the cost of repatriation!

Most UK citizens have now replaced the old E111 card with the new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) but it would be wrong to assume that this will provide adequate insurance. A recent survey showed that a staggering 13% of respondents believed repatriation and so called ‘health tourism’ within EEC would be covered. In reality you would only be entitled to the same basic cover as the locals in the EEC and Switzerland but nothing more.  Should you take a tumble you would most likely be treated by one of the many pricey private medical providers located close to the slopes, which definitely would not be covered! 

No matter how familiar or close to home the country seems to assume you would be covered could be a costly mistake. Staysure winter sports insurance covers all ages with policies available up to 85 years with comprehensive cover for ski equipment, delays, piste closures, off-piste skiing* and much more but also the lowest possible prices guaranteed.

Apart from the medical fees, loss of luggage, delays and cancellation are only covered by insurance policies and it should also be mentioned that some French resorts will refuse to sell you a lift pass if you’re not insured.

If you will be taking more than two trips over 12 months and require winter sports travel cover, rather than choosing single trip travel insurance an Annual Multi-Trip policy may be a more cost effective choice. Covering several trips throughout the year and also includes 17 days winter sports insurance as standard**

*Off-piste skiing is covered when you are skiing within the ski area boundaries of a recognised ski resort and following ski patrol guidelines.

**Only available on Comprehensive policies up to age 80.