White powder, cozy lodges, stunning views: A ski vacation is an unforgettable experience, whether you're traveling solo or with the family. But winter sports are as risky as they are exhilarating, and that's why you need ski travel insurance.

Three Things You Need To Know Before Buying Ski Travel Insurance

Comprehensive ski travel insurance coverage is essential if you're planning a winter adventure anytime soon. Here are the three reasons smart travelers buy trip insurance.

1. Ski travel insurance helps protect your investment.

With lift tickets, ski rentals, airline tickets and peak-season hotel prices, the expenses add up fast for a ski vacation. If you have to make a last-minute trip cancellation, you could lose a lot of money.

A good ski travel insurance policy covers not only trip cancellations, but also travel interruptions and stolen or lost baggage. If something goes awry, having travel insurance may help you recoup your investment and save your vacation.

2. Accidents and medical emergencies happen on a ski trip when you least expect it.

You might glide gracefully down black-diamond trails, but serious accidents can happen to the most experienced skiers. Or a sneaky cold or flu could ruin your long-planned vacation. Ski travel insurance policies may cover emergency medical evacuations and medical care, even on international trips. Look for a ski trip insurance policy that also covers trip interruptions, so if you have to cut your ski trip short, you can get back on the slopes when you're better.

3. When everything depends on the weather, ski travel insurance is a must.

You're wishing for fresh snow, but instead you get slush. Or a record-breaking blizzard closes the airport, leaving you stuck at home. You can't control the weather, but ski travel insurance keeps you from worrying about it. Many travel insurance policies cover ski trip cancellations, interruptions and delays due to weather. Make sure you review your insurance plan carefully before you buy, because not all plans offer the same coverage.