Hazardous sport lovers warned to take out travel insurance

Hazardous sport lovers warned to take out travel insurance

Travel Insurance News - 23/08/2005

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Hazardous sport lovers warned to take out travel insurance

For most backpackers, a trip away wouldn't be complete without the odd bungee jump or two.

One travel insurance company however is warning students just about to head off around the world to ensure they have taken out adequate travel cover.

Some insurance policies do not cover accidents sustained while taking part in adventure sports, and warns policyholders to check their cover before participating.

In a case study, research shows that one customer (who cannot be named for legal reasons) broke his back whilst surfing in Australia. The total cost of his medical treatment and repatriation to UK came to £30,000. This was covered by his insurance because he had taken out extended cover.

Certain pursuits such as water-skiing, rock climbing and pot-holing are specifically excluded from some travel insurance policies says experts.

'Horse-riding, scuba-diving and white-water rafting are becoming extremely popular activities, either as part of a specialist activity holiday or as a day's adrenaline-filled excursion said Dirk Kelly, from Options Travel Insurance who carried out the case study.

'But increasingly people are getting caught out when they come to claim for injuries and cancellations because they did not check the extent of their insurance cover,' he warned.

Travel insurance is an excellent way of allowing holidaymakers and travellers to enjoy their trips with peace of mind.

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