Health, Fitness & Medical Requirements

The health, safety and wellbeing of our participants are our highest priorities.

Nordic skiing and associated winter activities can be physically demanding and take place in remote mountain environments. This policy explains the health, fitness and medical responsibilities of participants and the steps Op BASE CAMP takes to help provide safe and enjoyable experiences.

This policy forms part of the Op BASE CAMP Booking Terms & Conditions and should be read alongside our other Policies & Information pages

  • Op BASE CAMP welcomes participants of varying abilities and experience levels.

    Every experience is planned according to the agreed objectives of the group, however participants remain responsible for ensuring they are physically capable of taking part in the activities included within their programme.

    If you are unsure whether an activity is suitable for you, please contact us before confirming your booking.

  • Participants should ensure they have an appropriate level of health and fitness for the activities included within their programme.

    Our experiences may involve:

    • Nordic skiing

    • Ski touring (where included)

    • Mountain travel

    • Outdoor physical activity

    • Cold weather environments

    • Variable terrain and weather conditions

    If you have any concerns regarding your ability to participate safely, we encourage you to seek appropriate medical advice before travelling.

  • Participants must inform Op BASE CAMP before travel of any medical condition that may affect their ability to participate safely.

    Examples include, but are not limited to:

    • Heart conditions

    • Respiratory conditions

    • Diabetes

    • Epilepsy

    • Severe allergies

    • Recent surgery

    • Pregnancy

    • Mental health conditions that may affect participation

    • Mobility or accessibility requirements

    Providing this information allows us to consider reasonable adjustments where appropriate and to plan safely.

  • If a participant becomes injured after booking but before departure, the Lead Organiser or participant should notify Op BASE CAMP as soon as reasonably possible.

    Depending on the nature of the injury, we may:

    • Recommend programme adjustments.

    • Suggest postponement.

    • Discuss participant substitution where appropriate.

    • Recommend seeking medical advice before travel.

  • Participants should immediately inform an Op BASE CAMP instructor or member of staff if they:

    • Feel unwell.

    • Become injured.

    • Believe continuing the activity may place themselves or others at risk.

    Participant welfare will always take priority over completing an activity.

    Where appropriate, Op BASE CAMP may require a participant to stop participating until it is considered safe to continue.

  • Participants remain responsible for bringing and managing any medication required during the experience.

    Where medication is essential, participants should:

    • Carry it with them where appropriate.

    • Ensure it is clearly labelled.

    • Inform Op BASE CAMP of any medication that may be relevant in an emergency.

    Op BASE CAMP staff cannot administer prescription medication unless specifically agreed in advance and appropriate arrangements have been made.

  • Please inform Op BASE CAMP of any allergies or dietary requirements as early as possible during the planning process.

    Whilst we will work with accommodation providers and catering partners to accommodate reasonable dietary requirements wherever possible, we cannot guarantee completely allergen-free environments.

    Participants with severe allergies remain responsible for carrying any prescribed emergency medication, such as adrenaline auto-injectors (e.g. EpiPens), and for informing Op BASE CAMP staff of their condition.

  • Op BASE CAMP is committed to making our experiences as inclusive as reasonably possible.

    If participants have accessibility requirements, adaptive equipment needs or require additional support, please discuss these with us during the planning process.

    Early communication allows us to work with local partners to explore appropriate adjustments and deliver the most suitable experience possible.

  • Many Op BASE CAMP experiences take place in winter mountain environments.

    Participants should be prepared for:

    • Cold temperatures.

    • Snow and ice.

    • Reduced daylight.

    • Variable weather.

    • Remote locations.

    Appropriate clothing, equipment and preparation are essential.

    Op BASE CAMP will provide guidance before travel, but participants remain responsible for following this advice and arriving suitably equipped unless equipment is included within the agreed programme.

  • In the event of an accident or medical emergency, Op BASE CAMP will take reasonable steps to obtain appropriate medical assistance.

    Where immediate treatment is required and it is not possible to obtain prior consent, emergency decisions may be taken in the best interests of the participant.

    Participants remain responsible for any medical costs not covered by their insurance or the agreed programme.

  • Op BASE CAMP reserves the right to refuse or discontinue participation where we reasonably believe that continuing an activity would place the participant or others at unacceptable risk.

    Any such decision will always be made in the interests of participant safety and the wellbeing of the wider group.

  • Participants are responsible for:

    • Providing accurate medical information before travel.

    • Informing Op BASE CAMP of any changes to their health before departure.

    • Following the instructions of instructors and staff.

    • Bringing any required medication.

    • Arriving with the equipment specified within their joining instructions (unless provided as part of the agreed programme).

    • Acting responsibly throughout the experience.

  • 13. Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I need to be very fit?

    No. Many of our experiences are designed for complete beginners or mixed-ability groups. We'll tailor the programme to the objectives and ability of your group wherever possible.

    What if I have a medical condition?

    Please let us know before travelling. Early communication helps us assess whether reasonable adjustments can be made and ensures we can plan safely.

    Can I still attend if I'm recovering from an injury?

    Possibly. This will depend on the nature of the injury and the activities included within your programme. Please contact us before travelling.

    What if I become ill during the trip?

    Tell an Op BASE CAMP instructor or member of staff immediately. Your welfare is always our priority, and we'll help determine the safest course of action.

    Do I need to bring my own medication?

    Yes. Participants are responsible for bringing any prescribed medication and ensuring it remains accessible throughout the experience.

  • Please also read:

    • Cancellation, Changes & Refund Policy

    • Insurance & Participant Responsibilities

    • Health, Fitness & Medical Requirements

    • Privacy Policy

    • Safeguarding Policy

    • Complaints Procedure

  • If you have any questions about theseBooking Terms & Conditions before confirming your booking, please contact Op BASE CAMP.

    We're always happy to explain anything that isn't clear.

    Email: adam.keenan@opbasecamp.com