We are talking big numbers - breaking a leg in Switzerland could cost £25,000, or up to £70,000 in the USA. You can get winter sports as an add-on to many policies for an extra premium, but you may want to get some specific cover if you are a skiing or snowboarding enthusiast and likely to go 'off piste'. Other sports covered include tobogganing, ice hockey and bobsleigh.
Equipment cover for skis, boots and clothing can also be included, but check whether you are covered only if you own the skis, or if you hire them.
Make sure there is snow on the slopes where you are going before you leave too by getting a snow report from the Ski Club of Great Britain as some insurers will not cover you if you have no snow when you get there.
