BY HOWDEN INSURANCE 

From last-minute deals to lift pass savings, here’s how to protect your trip.

If you’re looking to get away and get active in January, then a ski holiday could be the answer. The snow’s good, the slopes are quiet, and – despite it being mid-winter – there’s often more sunshine than back home in the UK. But the real draw? The price.

Flights, accommodation, lift passes, and even equipment hire can all be cheaper in January, thanks to its “low season” status. But new year bookings are booming as more British skiers catch on.

Ski Safari reported a 49% rise in January travel compared to last year, with Japan and Norway topping the list. The Ski Club of Great Britain has seen a steady rise in January popularity over the past three years, and French research firm G2A has tracked a jump in overnight stays across resorts between 2019 and 2025.

So, how do you make the most of a January ski trip – and protect it from going downhill before you even hit the slopes?

‘Low’ locations

Lower-altitude resorts can offer great snow without the premium price tag. Flaine, the largest of five resorts in France’s Grand Massif area, is a family-friendly option with tree-lined runs and charming villages nearby. Austria’s Mayrhofen is another mid-altitude gem, with reliable mid-season snow and off-peak prices.

Last-minute deals

If you’re flexible, you can snap up chalets with spare availability. Be open on dates and destinations – spontaneity pays off.

Skip the plane, take the train

January flights are cheaper than peak periods like Christmas or half term, but trains can be even better. Eurostar often has more space in January, and if you’re flexible you could bag a bargain!

Lift pass hacks

Many resorts now offer dynamic pricing for lift passes. In low season, that means lower prices – especially if you book ahead. Resorts like Monterosa in Italy and Verbier in Switzerland offer online discounts, so buying before you go can save you a bundle.

Equipment hire discounts

January is prime time for rental deals. Intersport France reported promotions of up to 55% off last year. Shop around and book early to lock in the best rates.

Why insurance matters more than ever

With all these savings, it’s tempting to book and go. But if something goes wrong – a cancelled flight, a lost bag, or an injury on the slopes – those savings can disappear fast.

That’s why it pays to sort your insurance as soon as you book. Not just before you travel – but right after you hit “confirm”.

Typical travel insurance covers:

• Medical emergencies
• Lost or stolen belongings
• Trip cancellation due to illness, injury or bereavement
• Delays (after a certain threshold)

But skiing isn’t your average holiday. Most policies require you to upgrade with a ‘winter sports’ top up option, and there are certain extreme winter sports – such as “off piste without a guide” – that require an additional ‘sporting activity upgrade’.

This kind of policy will typically provide more specific cover for:

• Medical expenses (consider the cost of air ambulance rescue, for example!)
• Lost, stolen or damaged ski equipment, depending on whether you own or hire it.
• Unused portion of your ski pack (e.g. school fees, lift passes) following injury or illness.
• Compensation for the unused portion of a lost lift pass.
• Piste closure due to conditions.
• Delays due to avalanche or landslides, after a certain threshold.

Top tips to stay protected

• Book early, cover early: Don’t wait. Insurance protects you before you travel, not just while you’re away.
• Know your policy: Read the fine print or speak to your insurance provider. If something’s missing – like natural disaster cover – ask if you can add it.
• Keep your receipts: If your plans are disrupted, you’ll need proof to support any claim.
• Don’t cancel without checking: Speak to your insurer first. Cancelling without a valid reason could leave you out of pocket.
• Talk to an expert: Online policies can be hit or miss. But a specialist broker, like Howden, can help tailor your cover to your trip – and do the hard work for you.

January skiing is smart – but smart skiers get covered

Whether you’re chasing powder in Japan or carving through the Alps, make sure your trip is protected. That way, the only thing you’ll lose is track of time on the slopes.

Our travel insurance experts at Howden are here to help! Simply give your local team a call, or stop by the branch to learn more.

Sources: The Telegraph, Which?