Winter Travel Tips for Adventurers and Active Travelers: Gear Up for Your Next Snowy Adventure

Winter Travel Tips for Adventurers and Active Travelers: Gear Up for Your Next Snowy Adventure

Last Updated: 4 min read

Winter isn’t just for snowmen and hot cocoa — it’s for adventurers, thrill seekers, and adrenaline junkies ready to carve up the slopes or tackle icy trails. Our best winter tip for adventurers is proper preparation. It’s the best way to maximize enjoyment, whether you’re planning to shred powder on a snowboard, conquer ski slopes, or even explore the frozen wilderness. And that includes ensuring you’re financially covered from any disruption to your trip or if things simply don’t go according to plan.

From choosing the right winter travel insurance to packing the ultimate gear, we’ve pulled together our best tips to keep your winter adventure exciting for all the right reasons. 

Tip No. 1: Pack your Travel Insurance

Winter sports, while exhilarating, come with inherent risks. That’s why securing winter travel insurance should be at the top of your to-do list. 

Winter travel insurance provides a safety net, covering unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and—perhaps most importantly for snow-loving travelers—ski or snowboard accidents. It’s your snowy lifeline, offering reassurance and confidence as you embark on your winter adventure.

Before hitting the slopes, double-check that your insurance covers winter sports. Ski or snowboard travel insurance can help cover ski-lift accidents, medical bills, and even damage to your gear, which can be expensive to replace. 

If you’re heading on a winter road trip or a chilly overseas excursion, ensure your policy includes coverage for delays caused by weather-related issues. The last thing you want is a storm derailing your plans without any help from your insurance provider. Insurance can also help you recover prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you can’t participate in any sport or activity due to inclement weather

Pro Tip: Check out our marketplace plans with sports equipment loss by provider

Tip No. 2: Travel Insurance Benefit Must-Haves for Active Travelers

When shopping for winter travel insurance, remember your specific activities and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the coverage types that active winter travelers should look for:

  1. Emergency Medical Coverage: This is vital, especially for winter sports enthusiasts. In the event of an accident, your policy should cover medical expenses, evacuation, and any necessary treatments.
  2. Medical Evacuation – Provides transportation to the nearest medical facility or back home if needed. So, if you slip on that black diamond slope, you’ll at least know your care is covered.
  3. Pre-Existing Medical Condition Coverage: If you have pre-existing conditions, look for plans that offer waivers, although many of the best travel insurance companies certainly do, and plan for the inevitable look-back period.
  4. Trip Cancellation/Interruption: If your plans are disrupted by a personal emergency, weather event, or even a resort closure, this coverage can help reimburse you for lost expenses.
  5. Sport-Specific Coverage: As mentioned, make sure your insurance covers ski or snowboard accidents. Some plans exclude extreme sports, so double-check that your provider offers this type of coverage.
  6. Weather Delay Protection – Covers extra expenses for accommodations, meals, and rebooking if weather conditions delay or cancel your trip.

Don’t forget to read the fine print (or certificate of insurance).  Some insurance providers may have exclusions related to skiing at specific resorts or skiing under certain conditions (like off-piste or backcountry skiing). Find out exactly what’s covered before you purchase your policy before you need to make a claim

Pro Tip: All policies purchased through Squaremouth come with our Zero Complaint Guarantee. If you believe your claim was unfairly denied, our team of licensed claims adjusters will investigate your case and mediate with the provider on your behalf.

Tip No. 3: Choose the Right Gear (and Don’t Forget the Extra Socks!)

Winter adventures call for the right gear, from boots to goggles. Here’s a quick checklist for any winter athlete:

  • Layer Up: The golden rule of layering is to dress in layers. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating layers, and top off with a waterproof outer layer. You’ll thank yourself when moving through snowstorms or tackling chilly slopes.
  • Snow Boots: Look for waterproof, insulated boots that keep your feet warm and dry.
  • Goggles & Helmets: Protect your eyes from the glare of snow and harsh winds. And don’t forget that helmet to keep your noggin safe.
  • Ski/Snowboard Gear: Ensure your ski poles, snowboard, and boots are in good condition. Also, remember your bindings—a loose binding can ruin your run.

And remember, it’s not just about comfort – it’s also about safety. For example, it’s not just any set of gloves; it’s insulated and moisture-wicking hand protectors. 

In addition to your adventure gear, ensure you’re equipped with avalanche gear (like beacons and probes) if you plan to venture off-piste. Also, check your ski insurance to ensure it covers off-piste skiing if exploring beyond the resort.

Tip No.4: Prepare and Plan for Changing Weather Conditions 

Winter weather can be unpredictable. Even the most seasoned traveler can be thrown for a loop by snowstorms, freezing rain, and sudden temperature drops. But we’ve got your pack and some tips to help you. 

For example, Always check the weather forecast before leaving, but be prepared for changes by packing extra layers and weather-resistant gear. If you plan to ski or snowboard, ensure your travel insurance covers weather-related cancellations or delays.

Tip No. 5: Don’t Forget About Après-Ski

Winter vacations aren’t just about the action-packed daytime activities; the après-ski scene can be just as important. After a long day on the slopes, nothing beats unwinding at a cozy lodge or enjoying hot chocolate by the fire. 

However, don’t let your guard down entirely. If anything goes wrong, you’ll want travel insurance that covers non-sport activities like dining, local tours, or excursions.

Bottom Line: Bundle Up and Get Out There to Explore

Winter offers some of the best outdoor adventures, but only if you’re prepared. There’s much to consider, from securing the right ski or snowboard travel insurance to packing the proper gear. The good news is that you can enjoy the snowy wonderlands worry-free with the appropriate planning. Check out our travel insurance comparison page and start looking for plans to help protect your vacation and peace of mind. 

Winter’s calling – are you ready to answer?