Standard travel insurance often excludes winter sports, so if you ski, snowboard or toboggan you usually need the winter sports option added. Without it, a broken leg on the slopes can leave you with a large bill and no way home.
What it adds
The winter sports extension covers medical costs from slope injuries, emergency mountain rescue, and often equipment, ski pass and lesson costs if you cannot use them. It also usually covers piste closure and unused pre paid costs if the resort shuts.
Limits to check
Policies cap the number of days of winter sports per trip and may exclude off piste skiing unless accompanied or with a guide. Existing medical conditions must still be declared under the main policy. Our guide to pre existing medical conditions covers that step.
Before you go
Confirm the extension is on your policy, carry your policy number, and know the emergency number. Our guide to reading your policy shows where the cover sits, and our guide to complaining explains what to do if a claim is rejected.