British nationals making short term visits to France should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as French nationals.

Alpine travellers should take out comprehensive insurance to cover extra medical costs, repatriation or, in the départements of Savoie and Haute-Savoie, possible transfer to Switzerland for hospital treatment.

For sports activities such as skiing, potholing and mountaineering, travel insurance must include mountain rescue services and helicopter costs. You should be aware of the risks involved in the more hazardous sports activities. Be aware of weather forecasts and conditions, ensure you are well equipped, do not undertake the activity alone, study the itinerary and inform someone of your plans.