Skiing in France: EHIC vs. Private Insurance

France is one of the world’s top ski destinations, attracting millions of winter sports enthusiasts every year. From the legendary slopes of Chamonix to the glamorous resorts of Courchevel, the French Alps offer breathtaking scenery and world-class skiing. But before you hit the powder, there’s a crucial question to answer: Does your insurance cover you in case of an accident?

For EU citizens, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has long been a go-to for medical coverage abroad. But with Brexit, rising healthcare costs, and the increasing complexity of winter sports injuries, many travelers are wondering: Is EHIC enough, or should you invest in private ski insurance?

Why Ski Insurance Matters More Than Ever

Skiing and snowboarding are thrilling but inherently risky sports. Broken bones, ligament tears, and even more severe injuries are not uncommon. In France, emergency mountain rescue and medical treatment can be extremely expensive—sometimes costing thousands of euros.

The Limitations of EHIC

The EHIC (or its post-Brexit replacement, the UK Global Health Insurance Card, GHIC) provides access to state healthcare in France at the same cost as a local resident. Sounds great, right? But here’s the catch:

• It doesn’t cover private healthcare – If you’re airlifted off the mountain by a private rescue service (common in remote ski areas), EHIC won’t reimburse you.
• No repatriation coverage – If you need an emergency flight home, EHIC won’t pay for it.
• Limited dental and specialist care – Some treatments may require upfront payment.
• No liability coverage – If you accidentally injure another skier, you could be held financially responsible.

The Case for Private Ski Insurance

Private ski insurance fills the gaps left by EHIC/GHIC. Here’s why many skiers and snowboarders opt for additional coverage:

1. Mountain Rescue & Emergency Evacuation

Helicopter rescues in the Alps can cost €3,000–€15,000. Private insurance typically covers this in full.

2. Full Medical Coverage

Private policies often include:
- Private hospital stays
- Specialist treatments
- Prescription medications
- Follow-up care

3. Repatriation & Travel Assistance

If you’re seriously injured, insurance can arrange (and pay for) medical flights back to your home country.

4. Equipment & Piste Closure Protection

Lost or stolen gear? Bad weather shuts the slopes? Some policies offer compensation.

5. Liability Coverage

If you collide with another skier and are found at fault, liability insurance can save you from massive legal bills.

Brexit’s Impact on Ski Insurance for UK Travelers

Since the UK left the EU, British skiers must navigate new rules:

• EHIC is being phased out – UK residents now use GHIC, which offers similar (but not identical) coverage.
• No guarantee of free care – Some French clinics may charge UK patients upfront, requiring reimbursement later.
• More reliance on private insurance – Many UK insurers now explicitly exclude ski injuries unless you buy a winter sports add-on.

The Hidden Costs of Skiing Without Insurance

Imagine this scenario:
- You break your leg on a black run in Val d’Isère.
- A helicopter takes you to a private clinic.
- Surgery, hospital stay, and rehab cost **€10,000+.
- Without insurance, you pay out of pocket.

Even with EHIC/GHIC, you might still face €5,000+ in uncovered expenses.

How to Choose the Right Ski Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies cover winter sports. Here’s what to look for:

Key Features to Compare

| Feature | EHIC/GHIC | Basic Travel Insurance | Comprehensive Ski Insurance |
|---------|-----------|-----------------------|-----------------------------|
| Emergency rescue | ❌ No | ✅ Sometimes | ✅ Full coverage |
| Private medical care | ❌ No | ❌ Rarely | ✅ Yes |
| Repatriation | ❌ No | ✅ Limited | ✅ Full coverage |
| Off-piste skiing | ❌ No | ❌ Usually excluded | ✅ Often included |
| Equipment protection | ❌ No | ✅ Sometimes | ✅ Yes |

Top Ski Insurance Providers in 2024

1. World Nomads – Great for adventurous skiers, including off-piste coverage.
2. Allianz Travel – Strong medical benefits and 24/7 assistance.
3. Snowcard – Specializes in winter sports with high coverage limits.
4. AXA Winter Sports – Covers cancellations, equipment, and medical emergencies.

Real-Life Stories: When Insurance Made the Difference

Case 1: The Broken Collarbone in Tignes

"I thought EHIC would cover everything. Then I needed surgery in a private clinic—€7,000 later, I learned my lesson." – Mark, UK skier

Case 2: Avalanche Near Chamonix

"Our guide led us off-piste, and a small avalanche buried my friend. Private insurance paid for his helicopter rescue—no questions asked." – Sophie, Australian snowboarder

Final Tips Before You Hit the Slopes

• Check your policy exclusions – Some insurers void coverage if you’re skiing off-piste or under the influence.
• Carry your insurance details – Save emergency numbers and policy info on your phone.
• Consider an annual policy – If you ski multiple times a year, it’s often cheaper than single-trip coverage.

Skiing in France is a dream for many, but accidents happen. While EHIC/GHIC provides a safety net, private ski insurance is the best way to ensure you’re fully protected. Don’t let an injury turn your dream vacation into a financial nightmare—get covered before you go.