With winter upon us, many South Africans look forward to a relaxing getaway. For some, that means spreading our wings and pursuing adventure abroad. The more adventurous among us may even consider hitting the slopes for a thrilling skiing trip. Travellers must proactively manage risks to ensure a safe and fun adventure holiday. Here are some tips for a hassle-free and enjoyable winter ski break.
Keep your winter kit safe.
Theft can spoil the mood on even the most exciting holiday. And if you’re travelling with pricey winter jackets and deluxe après-ski attire, loss or theft will really put a damper on your trip. Make sure that you have sufficient cover for these items.
Lost or damaged baggage is relatively rare, but it is a fact of travel life. As many travel insurance policies have a per-item maximum pay-out limit, it may be prudent to ensure that the appropriate personal insurance policy covers valuable items (such as jewellery, laptops, and cameras) and the luggage itself. If in doubt, chat with your broker or insurer before you take off on your trip. If you’re travelling with valuable items, keep them close to you. Don’t take unnecessary risks by putting your most prized possessions in check-in luggage.
Staying safe on the slopes.
Casual skiing can be safe and enjoyable if you follow basic guidelines and best practice. Here are some important points to remember when hitting the slopes:
- Ensure your skis are properly fitted: Failing to set up equipment properly poses major risks, including knee and leg injuries. Skis are designed to release when a certain amount of pressure has been exerted upon them, but incorrect configuration can lead to accidents.
- Dress for the weather: Mountain weather conditions can change rapidly. Temperatures can quickly drop from pleasantly warm to freezing. Be sure to carry additional layers to ensure you’re prepared for the whole range of weather conditions you might experience on a day out in the Alps.
Travel cover is not optional.
Travel insurance is essential to a safe holiday—especially a sports adventure trip. The right policy protects against events such as medical emergencies, travel interruptions, and baggage loss. A Bryte case study illustrates the value of the right level of cover well. A customer on holiday in Austria was involved in a ski accident and broke her leg. She urgently needed to be airlifted from Salzburg for surgery. Following successful medical intervention, she was discharged six days later and upgraded to business class for her flight home.
Get informed before you jet off
It’s always important to understand precisely what your travel insurance policy terms are before you go on holiday. This is especially important when engaging in adventure sports. Don’t take your level of cover for granted – and be sure you are aware of all exclusions. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact your broker or insurer to ensure you have the right cover, that is appropriate for your next adventure.