Ski Travel Insurance

Award winning travel cover for skiing

  • Emergency medical treatment abroad
  • On & Off piste cover
  • Cover for skis and ski equipment
  • Save 10% online*
Skier carving on piste
Award winning insurance

Recognised for our specialist approach
to sports and travel insurance.

Trusted by 75,000+ customers

Exceptional-rated cover from thousands of active travellers.

Backed by AXA XL

Buy with confidence with cover
underwritten by a leading insurer.

What does skiing insurance cover?

Skiing travel insurance is designed for skiers heading abroad for everything from resort-based holidays and cross-country tours to off-piste and backcountry adventures.

Our full winter sports policy brings specialist ski cover and essential travel protection together in one place. For skiing-specific cover, this can include skis and other ski equipment, lift passes and activity fees, search and rescue, piste closure, lack of snow and cover for off-piste or backcountry skiing.

It can also protect you against wider travel risks, including emergency medical treatment and repatriation, cancellation and curtailment, baggage, personal accident, personal liability and more.

If you already have travel insurance but it excludes skiing, a ski-specific bolt-on can add short-term cover for your time on the mountain.

Make sure you select every skiing discipline and activity you plan to take part in when getting a quote.

 

Our policies provide three different types of cover: Sports travel insurance, Sports accident, and Activity Top-Up. Please ensure you select the most suitable cover for your activity, when you get a quote and always review your policy documents.

 Sports equipment is excluded under our bolt‑on cover.

Single Trip
Annual Policy
CoverageBronzeSilverGold
Emergency Medical Expenses and Repatriation
£10,000,000
£90 Excess
£10,000,000
£90 Excess
£10,000,000
£90 Excess
Cancellation and Curtailment
£1,000
£90 Excess
£2,500
£90 Excess
£5,000
£90 Excess
Personal Liability
£2,000,000
£90 Excess
£2,000,000
£90 Excess
£2,000,000
£90 Excess
Baggage and Personal Effects
£1,000
£90 Excess
£1,500
£90 Excess
£2,500
£90 Excess
Delayed Baggage
Nil
Nil Excess
£150
Nil Excess
£300
Nil Excess
Sports Equipment
£200
£90 + 10% Excess
£400
£90 + 10% Excess
upgrade available
£600
£90 + 10% Excess
Activity and Race Entry Fees
£300
£90 Excess
£600
£90 Excess
£900
£90 Excess
Legal Expenses and Advice
£25,000
£90 Excess
£35,000
£90 Excess
£50,000
£90 Excess
Search and Rescue
£15,000
£90 Excess
£25,000
£90 Excess
£50,000
£90 Excess
Personal Accident
£10,000
Nil Excess
£15,000
Nil Excess
£25,000
Nil Excess
Travel Delay Abandonment and Missed Departure
£1,500
£90 Excess
£2,500
£90 Excess
£5,000
£90 Excess
Money and Documents
£200
£90 Excess
£400
£90 Excess
£500
£90 Excess
Catastrophe
£150
Nil Excess
£250
Nil Excess
£500
Nil Excess
Hijack
£300
Nil Excess
£500
Nil Excess
£1,000
Nil Excess
Inconvenience Benefit
£100
Nil Excess
£500
Nil Excess
£1,000
Nil Excess
Personal Assistance
Included
Nil Excess
Included
Nil Excess
Included
Nil Excess
CoverageBronzeSilverGold
Emergency Medical Expenses and Repatriation
£10,000,000
£90 Excess
£10,000,000
£90 Excess
£10,000,000
£90 Excess
Cancellation and Curtailment
£1,000
£90 Excess
£2,500
£90 Excess
£5,000
£90 Excess
Personal Liability
£2,000,000
£90 Excess
£2,000,000
£90 Excess
£2,000,000
£90 Excess
Baggage and Personal Effects
£1,000
£90 Excess
£1,500
£90 Excess
£2,500
£90 Excess
Delayed Baggage
Nil
Nil Excess
£150
Nil Excess
£300
Nil Excess
Sports Equipment
£200
£90 + 10% Excess
£400
£90 + 10% Excess
upgrade available
£600
£90 + 10% Excess
Activity and Race Entry Fees
£300
£90 Excess
£600
£90 Excess
£900
£90 Excess
Legal Expenses and Advice
£25,000
£90 Excess
£35,000
£90 Excess
£50,000
£90 Excess
Search and Rescue
£15,000
£90 Excess
£25,000
£90 Excess
£50,000
£90 Excess
Personal Accident
£10,000
Nil Excess
£15,000
Nil Excess
£25,000
Nil Excess
Travel Delay Abandonment and Missed Departure
£1,500
£90 Excess
£2,500
£90 Excess
£5,000
£90 Excess
Money and Documents
£200
£90 Excess
£400
£90 Excess
£500
£90 Excess
Catastrophe
£150
Nil Excess
£250
Nil Excess
£500
Nil Excess
Hijack
£300
Nil Excess
£500
Nil Excess
£1,000
Nil Excess
Inconvenience Benefit
£100
Nil Excess
£500
Nil Excess
£1,000
Nil Excess
Personal Assistance
Included
Nil Excess
Included
Nil Excess
Included
Nil Excess

Only a summary of the policy’s coverage is presented on this page. Please refer to policy documents for full details of what is and what is not covered, when you get a quote.

How much does ski insurance cost?

Medical emergencies overseas, especially in mountain environments, can be extremely costly without proper cover in place. Rescue services, evacuation and hospital treatment can quickly run into thousands of pounds.

The price of your ski policy depends on the type of ski trip you’re taking, the activities included, the cover limits you select for medical treatment, cancellation and ski equipment, and whether you add extra protection for specialist winter sports gear.

Review the ski insurance example and get a quote tailored to your ski holiday.

**This example is based on a real quote from our website on 18/09/2026 for a 5-day, single trip, adult policy. It is shown for illustrative purposes only. If your circumstances or requirements differ, your quote may be higher or lower. The quote you receive will be based on the information you provide about your activities. Get a quote for pricing tailored to your requirements.

Pricing example

£49.04**

Example quote is based on:

  • Sport Selected Skiing (excluding competitions)
  • Sports Group Group 5
  • Package Bronze
  • Policy Single Trip Travel Policy
  • Duration 5 days
  • Destination Europe
  • Emergency Medical Treatment £10,000,000
  • Trip Cancellation £1,000
  • Sports Equipment Cover £200
  • Search and rescue £15,000
  • See more benefits when you get a quote

**This example is based on a real quote from our website on 18/09/2026 for a 5-day, single trip, adult policy. It is shown for illustrative purposes only. If your circumstances or requirements differ, your quote may be higher or lower. The quote you receive will be based on the information you provide about your activities. Get a quote for pricing tailored to your requirements.

Why you need ski travel insurance

Slope injuries can be expensive

Accidents may lead to overseas medical bills, rescue costs and missed time on the mountain.

Ski equipment is costly to replace

Cover can protect your skis and specialist kit for replacement if they are stolen or damaged.

Mountain conditions can disrupt your plans

Cover can help protect costs for travel disruption if your delayed or face missed departure.

Our experts explain why…

“Ski trips take travellers into challenging mountain environments where weather, snow conditions and remote locations can quickly add complexity when something goes wrong. That’s part of what makes skiing rewarding, but it also means specialist protection matters.

 With decades of experience supporting winter sports travellers, we understand the realities of ski trips abroad — from on-slope injuries to disruptions caused by weather, equipment issues or alpine conditions.

 If something goes wrong, our UK-based team is here to help you get the support you need, whether that’s getting you back on the slopes or helping you return home safely.”

Chris Trotman – Head of Sales & Underwriting at SportsCover Direct

Thousands rate how easy it is

We’ve refined our process to make buying sports insurance abroad simple but thorough, with cover designed around the activities you take part in, from training trips and competitions to active holidays overseas.

Our Claims Record

Average pay out for each insurance claim

£1,599.09*

How to make a claim

Choose your policy, find the forms you need

Download and complete forms

Submit your claims for review

A Recent Claim Example

“One of our policyholders was Off-Piste Skiing in France where they suffered a fall resulting in a knee injury. Because they had taken out our Skiing Insurance, they were covered to receive medical assistance for the injury to their ACL.”

Total Paid Out

£4,577.61

Claim Type

Medical Assistance

Policy Type

Off-Piste Skiing Insurance

Incident

Medical assistance

Policy Excess Applied

£90.00

Location

France

Disclaimer

*Data relates to all SportsCover Direct Insurance claims from Jan to Dec 2025 inclusive. Claim example from 2025.

Medical cover explained

We provide cover that considers your medical circumstances. Complete a medical declaration to ensure you’re properly protected, as part of the quotation process.*

*Please note, just because you’ve declared a medical condition or injury doesn’t mean it is automatically covered. The insurer needs to assess it first and will inform you by email if any terms apply.

Medical conditions must be declared

All pre-existing conditions considered

Cover available up to age 74

We'll review your details

Most declarations don't mean exclusion

Any terms will be confirmed by email

Why choose us

SportsCover Direct is a specialist insurance provider focused entirely on sport. For over 30 years, we’ve helped athletes, teams and organisations get the protection they need, whether they’re travelling, competing, or training abroad or in the UK.

Covering 500+ sports

Fast online quotes

Established over 30 years

UK-based support team

FAQs

Yes, lift passes are covered if you are unable to use them due to injury or illness. Compensation is provided for the unused portion of your ski pass, subject to providing a medical certificate as proof of your inability to ski​.

Yes, if your family consists of 1-2 adults and children, you can select a family ski insurance policy. If your family is made up of all adults (children are now in full-time employment) then you can purchase a group policy.

No, we can only offer cover prior to your trip starting. For short-term cover once you have already started your trip you can opt for our Activity TopUp insurance.

Yes, our ski insurance policy contains restrictions related to pre-existing medical conditions. You must declare any pre-existing conditions at the time of purchasing the insurance or when booking your trip, whichever is later. Conditions that need to be declared include any hospitalisations, investigations, or treatments for issues such as cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or autoimmune diseases, cancer, serious or terminal illnesses, scheduled treatments or surgeries, mental illnesses, and any conditions that might require medical attention during the trip. Coverage may be subject to special terms or exclusions based on these declarations.

Group skiing cover is available – simply select “Group” in our ‘Who do you want to cover?’ section when getting a quote. You’ll need to provide details for each traveller within the group, and highlight any medical conditions (where relevant) to ensure that everyone is covered properly.

You have the choice to select Europe or Worldwide and must select the correct area you will be skiing in. All European countries are covered under Europe.

Simply select “Skiing / snowboard competitions” as the sport you wish to cover.

Coverage for ski races or competitions is not included as standard. Our policy covers race entry fees up to £500 depending on your level of cover.

Yes, search and rescue operations are covered. Our policy includes costs associated with search, rescue, and sledge expenses if you are lost, injured, or need to be evacuated from the mountain. Our levels of cover range from £15,000 to £50,000 towards search and mountain rescue.

Yes, our policy covers piste closure due to lack of snow. It provides compensation for additional travel and accommodation expenses incurred if the piste is closed and alternative arrangements cannot be made.

Our annual ski insurance is designed for holiday makers taking several trips in one year. You can be covered for up to 60 days of skiing.

Yes, you are covered to ski on artificial slopes and snow centres.

Yes, the policy covers rented ski equipment. The coverage includes loss, theft, or damage to sports equipment during your trip. You are required to provide sufficient supporting evidence for claims, such as a police report in case of theft or a damage report from the rental company.

Yes, you are covered to ski off-piste, provided you take reasonable measures to protect yourself. You need to be skiing with another person (not necessarily a guide) and following advice from your ski area or resort.

Our policies will cover anyone up to the age of 74 at the time of purchase. An applicant aged 75 or over cannot be covered.

It is very unlikely, but there is a small possibility your ski resort will be closed due to lack of snow or an avalanche risk and prevent you skiing. In this situation you would need to follow local guidance. Our ski policy can offer cover you, provided there is no alternative place to ski offered by the resort.

We can offer different levels of cover, Bronze, Silver and Gold, depending on your requirements. To protect yourself from costly medical expenses our cover provides up to £10,000,000 for medical costs.

Please go to our Claims page to find out more information.

Our Sports Travel Insurance policy provides cover for specialist sports equipment from £200 worth of cover and up to £5,600 as an optional add-on.

This not only protects your own equipment, but also any gear you hire during your trip.

It also covers your ski equipment in transit to and from your destination.

Single Trip Insurance: Provides coverage for one specific trip during the period of insurance. This type is ideal for individuals who plan to take one or two trips a year.

Annual Multi-Trip Insurance: Offers coverage for multiple trips within a one-year period, with each trip covered up to a specific number of consecutive days as stated in the policy. This is suitable for frequent travellers and provides continuous coverage throughout the year for multiple trips.

Get specialist cover in minutes

Covering over 500 sports with quick online quotes and UK- based support, if you need it.

Our resources

How ski gear & equipment can protect you on the slopes

When you’re skiing in freezing temperatures and challenging alpine weather, your first line of protection is your clothing. The right ski gear doesn’t just keep you comfortable, it protects you from cold, wind, moisture, and impact, giving you the security and confidence you need for a safe day on the…

4 March 2026

Snowboarding disciplines explained

Snowboarding disciplines are typically divided into 3 categories – alpine, freeride and freestyle. Most holidaymakers will stick to alpine, perhaps dabbling in snow park activities and some off-piste freeriding. Then there’s competitions. As riders progress beyond the beginner stage, snowboarding becomes less about simply getting down the slope and more…

4 February 2026

Ask the expert: Winter Sports Travel Insurance, your queries covered

For many travellers, when off on a winter sports trip the focus is on flights, accommodation, and lift passes, with insurance often an afterthought or a rushed final step. However, one of the most overlooked scenarios is that standard travel insurance rarely includes adequate cover for winter sports by default.…

29 January 2026

The 10 Best Ski Resorts in Italy 2026

Italy has always been a popular choice for UK skiers, and according to the Mountain Trade Network, it sits 3rd behind France and Austria as the country to visit. With the 2026 Winter Olympics taking place across Milan, Cortina and northern Italy, the spotlight is firmly on the Italian Alps,…

22 January 2026

A ski packing list for a smooth ski trip

A complete ski trip checklist for beginners, families & advanced skiers Planning a ski holiday is part of the fun, but forgetting essential items can quickly turn your winter trip into a stressful experience. From staying warm and protected on the slopes to keeping expensive equipment safe, having a well-thought-out…

8 January 2026

Alpine Ski Racing Season 2026: Key dates, resorts & runs

The Alpine Ski World Cup season 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent years. As an Olympic season, it brings heightened pressure, peak athlete performance, and racing on the world’s most demanding pistes. For ski enthusiasts who spend winters travelling across the Alps and…

24 December 2025

2025 winter sports research insights to help your next trip to the slopes

The 2025/26 winter sports season is now here - with many resorts having opened their doors in late November or December, we reviewed our first-party claims data from the last winter season (November 2024 to April 2025) to decipher the most common reasons that led to claims. Read on to find…

19 December 2025

Skiing in Japan

Skiing in Japan has surged in popularity among British skiers and snowboarders – and for good reason. With deep powder snow, postcard-worthy landscapes, soothing hot springs and some of the most reliable winter conditions in the world, Japan offers an experience entirely different from anything in the Alps or the…

11 December 2025

Planning for winter travel disruption when heading to the Alps

Winter can be a busy time of year for certain transport hubs as travellers head to the Alps for skiing, snowboarding, and snowy escapes. Partnering this extra pressure can be another regular visitor, in the form of travel disruption. Snowfall, storms, fog and freezing temperatures can affect airports, roads, rail…

27 November 2025

Sports camps in Winter – where to train like a pro

When the days grow shorter, the sunlight fades by mid-afternoon and icy pavements replace warm tarmac, many athletes feel their motivation dip. Early-morning swims become chilly, windy rides feel less enticing, and the treadmill starts to look like a prison rather than a tool for fitness. But winter doesn’t have…

11 November 2025

Latest from our sports insurance experts

Before booking a hiking holiday in France: Know this

Before booking a hiking holiday in France: Know this

France offers some of Europe’s most varied and rewarding walking. That variety is exactly what makes hiking holidays in France so appealing. It also means that choosing the right trip requires more than finding a route with good views. A walking holiday in Provence will involve very different conditions from…

29 July 2026

Sailing from the UK to France

Sailing from the UK to France

For many sailing enthusiasts, crossing the English Channel and sailing from the UK to France is one of the most rewarding boating adventures available close to home. Whether it’s a weekend trip to a French marina, a longer coastal cruise, or a solo sailing challenge, the route offers a mix…

9 June 2026

Best places for solo travel adventures 2026

Best places for solo travel adventures 2026

Solo travel continues to grow in popularity, with more people choosing independent adventures that offer flexibility, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. From hiking volcanoes in Central America to exploring mountain trails in Europe, solo traveller adventure holidays are becoming a major trend for travellers looking to combine freedom with adventure.…

2 June 2026

Skiing in Japan

Skiing in Japan

Skiing in Japan has surged in popularity among British skiers and snowboarders – and for good reason. With deep powder snow, postcard-worthy landscapes, soothing hot springs and some of the most reliable winter conditions in the world, Japan offers an experience entirely different from anything in the Alps or the…

11 December 2025

Planning for winter travel disruption when heading to the Alps

Planning for winter travel disruption when heading to the Alps

Winter can be a busy time of year for certain transport hubs as travellers head to the Alps for skiing, snowboarding, and snowy escapes. Partnering this extra pressure can be another regular visitor, in the form of travel disruption. Snowfall, storms, fog and freezing temperatures can affect airports, roads, rail…

27 November 2025

Golfing in the Canary Islands for a warmer winter escape

Golfing in the Canary Islands for a warmer winter escape

If you’re staring out at a drizzly British fairway wondering where your swing went, perhaps the Canary Islands are your antidote. Sitting off the northwest coast of Africa, the archipelago enjoys a spring like climate throughout the UK winter months with temperatures getting up to 20–24°C. To complement these warmer…

18 November 2025

Popular ski touring destinations in Europe

Popular ski touring destinations in Europe

As ski lifts grow pricier and snowlines retreat, more skiers are seeing the opportunity to swap lift passes for skins. Ski touring is part of the origin story of skiing, 100 years ago ski lifts were in their infancy and ski touring was often a means for locals to move…

6 November 2025

Cycling to Europe: No-Fly routes for a greener, active adventure

Cycling to Europe: No-Fly routes for a greener, active adventure

More travellers are choosing adventure over airports, embracing slower, more sustainable ways to explore. Google Trends data shows searches for “no-fly travel” have risen by 77% this year, reflecting a growing appetite for journeys that prioritise experience over speed. At the same time, sustainability is becoming a key factor in…

5 November 2025

10 best golf resorts in Europe to visit this Autumn

10 best golf resorts in Europe to visit this Autumn

As the UK weather cools, after a bumper summer for playing golf, you might start looking abroad for sunshine, some different courses to try and an all-round rewarding break. This list brings together the golf resorts that UK golfers are searching for most, based on real search behaviour. These aren’t…

28 August 2025

Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc

Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc

If you fancy swapping your office chair for alpine air, and your morning coffee for a sunrise over snow-capped peaks, then trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) might just be your next great adventure. This legendary long-distance trek circles Western Europe’s highest mountain- Mont Blanc - taking you through…

1 May 2025