Many travellers taking risks travelling without insurance

When the summer holiday season arrives most travellers start thinking about sunglasses and sun creams and the right clot

Travel Insurance News - 21/07/2008

<< Nearly half of UK holidaymakers without travel insurance | Travel News | Opting for annual travel insurance can be cost effective >>

A new study released by moneysupermarket.com shows that only 50 per cent of UK travellers take out travel insurance for every trip they take. “Some people may view travel insurance as an unwanted expense, but with annual worldwide cover for a family of four costing as little as £40 from the likes of Flexicover Direct, there is no excuse to travel without adequate cover,” noted spokesman for Moneysupermarket, Peter Gerrard.

Although there are inexpensive options, they may not always be the best ones. For example, before purchasing a policy, consumers are advised to read through the policy carefully to understand exactly what is covered. A recent survey conducted by Age Concern Insurance Services demonstrated that around 75 per cent of UK travellers don’t read through the terms and conditions of their insurance.

“Travellers who assume they are covered for cancellation or curtailment of their holiday, travel delay, loss of personal luggage, medical expenses and medical liability can find themselves in traumatic situations abroad,” warned Age Concern’s Antony Obsorne. “Many Brits simply opt to use the travel insurance they get free with other financial products, such as credit cards or health insurance but this cover may well be limited.”

Before purchasing a policy it’s also recommended that the limits on each type of claim be understood. Travellers should be covered at the £2m level for medical expenses, £1m for personal liability and approximately £1,500 for stolen or lost luggage. It is also important that cancellation payouts cover at least the cost of the holiday itself.

<< Nearly half of UK holidaymakers without travel insurance | Travel News | Opting for annual travel insurance can be cost effective >>