Many first time skiers and snowboarders do not know or hear about the extra dangers and costs associated with the mountains in europe, USA and worldwide. You not only have the extra dangers but the extra equipment which is a lot more expensive than what you would take on a summer holiday.

The major additional cost for skiers and snowboarders is normally mountain recovery. If you injure yourself on the mountain and have to be receued the cost can run in to thousands of pounds. If you are more remote or more seriously injured and need a helicopter rescue then the cost will be in the tens of thousands of pounds even into the hundreds.

Your winter sports extension will cover you for medical emergencies on and off the mountain, you need to be aware that having a holiday in a cold snowy place means more ice on the street and more hazards on the road and in the towns.

Secondly you have the cost associated with your equipment, whether it is hired or your own then the cost of replacing it or finding something to ski or snowboard on can be hundreds if not thousands of pounds. Your ski insurance will cover you for lost, delayed or stolen equipment on and off the mountain.

Lastly you have the costs associated with poor weather, avalanche and piste closure. Most of these will be covered under your ski insurance policy.

If you want to know more about ski and snowboard safety then click here for our guide to the mountains