A quarter of holidaymakers travel without insurance putting themselves at risk of big bills for medical emergencies and lost property, according to a new report by Norwich Union.
This is despite the fact work-weary Brits are now taking more holidays than ever thanks to low-cost airlines, foreign home ownership and the popularity of short breaks.
Half of those who have travelled uninsured say they chanced it because they were 'only going on a short break' and a further 14% simply forgot to buy a policy. Men are much more likely than women to travel uninsured.
Norwich Union's 'Travel Uncovered Report' reveals that the insurer paid over £43.5 million on travel insurance claims in 2006.
It also identifies a lack of knowledge among holidaymakers about why they need cover. Nearly half of Brits incorrectly believe they are most likely to claim for lost, stolen or damaged baggage.
Medical emergencies are in fact the biggest single cause of travel claims – over £23 million was paid out by Norwich Union for medical emergencies last year with the average claim totalling over £1,200.
Travel insurance: News update: June 2007
