Accessibility to the slopes seems to be less of an issue nowadays with holiday makers flying to destinations ranging from Canada to South America, while more exotic locations such as China and India are also becoming more and more popular amongst the skiing fraternity. And of course the traditional European favourites France, Switzerland, Italy and Austria remain as popular as ever.

But whilst the glorious slopes beckon, inexperienced first timers and experienced skiers alike should be acutely aware that goggles may not be the most important item on their list. More important is a good insurance policy and the correct medical documents.

With the increase of avalanches and rising popularity of skiing it's not surprising that ski related accidents are on the increase. Without the proper insurance cover, holiday makers could be faced with hefty medical and legal fees as well as an uncomfortable end to their holiday.

Top five tips before you hit the piste

Get Insurance

Obviously the most important thing to arrange before you leave is your insurance. Not every country has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with the UK; therefore it is extremely important that you arrange a policy which covers you for your trip and covers the type of activity you are planning to undertake.

Before you leave you should arrange to get a European Health Insurance Card. This can be obtained quickly and free of charge through the Department of Health, by filling in a simple form on the Department of Health Website. The card may entitle you free medical care or discounted medical care and replaces the old E111 and E112 forms which are no longer valid.

Medical and legal costs are usually adequately provided for but skiers should make sure that if they are travelling to Canada or the US that their limit is higher as medical and personal injury claims tend to cost more in these countries.

Plan Well In Advance

If you have your holiday planned thoroughly it will make you less likely to take chances and "wing it" when you land on the slopes. It will also mean you can use your time getting in some real skiing.

Take Lessons

Despite the recent reduction in airfares, your holiday is still likely to cost a pound or two. The best way to make full use of your time on the snow and reduce your chances of an accident is to either take a few lessons before you leave or make sure you seek out a qualified instructor when you are there.

Don't Drink and Ski

Turning up drunk to the slopes is not a great idea; firstly you're increasing your chances of causing either yourself or someone else a serious injury, and secondly in most cases it will invalidate your insurance. This applies to illegal substances as well.

Heed Weather and Avalanche Warnings

Avalanches can cause very serious ski related injuries and often lead to death. Make sure you avail yourself of any weather/avalanche information available to you.

With more than a million Brits taking to the slopes each year, its increasingly important that they have adequate insurance cover. If you follow these tips and prepare well in advance, there is no reason not to relax and enjoy your holiday.