Ski or Snowboard Theft: How to Protect Yourself?

Every year, hundreds of tourists have their skis or snowboards stolen. Sometimes it's the work of genuine organised gangs who do the rounds of the places where equipment is stored. The phenomenon isn't new, and it can be countered by following a few relatively simple rules of vigilance and protection.

Ski or snowboard theft: a few basic rules

• If you're bringing your own equipment, you can protect it by: - marking it (indelible writing, stickers) or engraving it (engraving a specific code that will allow it to be identified if it's found after a theft) - or by fitting it with an anti-theft or tracking system (i.e. a small electronic chip that, using GPS or Bluetooth, lets you track the item. It can also be used to protect clothing left in an unattended cloakroom).
• Needless to say, you should always stay alert and store your equipment in a secure location or keep it under your own supervision (keep an eye on it).
• Bring all the documents proving you're the owner of the items (e.g. proof of purchase) and take photos. Note the brand, the model of your equipment and any distinguishing marks (e.g. scratches from use) in a small notebook.

Equipment stored in a vehicle or a roof box

• Don't leave your equipment in plain view.
• If you use a roof box, make sure it has a good lock. Only leave your equipment in it during your journey to and from the ski resort, or while moving around on site.

Equipment left at the hotel or accommodation

• If possible, use a safe or leave your equipment in a supervised or locked area.

Equipment left outside

© Natasha-Aleksandra / Shutterstock.com

• Keep an eye on your equipment whenever possible, or ask the people you're with to do so.
• If possible, mix up your pairs of skis so they're "unmatched". Stealing two mismatched skis is of no interest to a would-be thief.
• If possible, use a steel anti-theft cable and a padlock. You'll find this kind of equipment in specialist sports shops.

Other tips

• Always be extra vigilant in "après-ski" areas where ski or snowboard equipment is stored in bulk, near restaurants, bars or shops.
• Sometimes the disappearance isn't actually a theft, but a mistake by other skiers who have the same type of skis and "accidentally" took yours. In that case, they may well bring them back later.
• Report it to the authorities immediately in the event of theft. Bring along all the evidence you have.

What insurance applies?

• If you're bringing your own equipment, check the terms of your household insurance, theft insurance and any supplementary insurance. In most cases, the financial loss will only be covered to a limited extent, and with an excess to pay.
• If you rent equipment on site, you'll usually be offered ski insurance. This covers theft as well as breakage or damage to the equipment. Find out about the coverage, the (sometimes high) excess amount, and remember that you remain liable in the event of loss or theft.
• Also check with your travel assistance provider whether they cover loss or theft (some travel assistance contracts include this cover), or an early return.

Read our other tips in the "Winter sports" file

First published: 01/2019 - Updated: 03/2022