Nearly two-fifths (38%) of British holidaymakers who are going abroad this summer do not have travel insurance for their trip yet, according to ABTA ? The Travel Association.
The new research shows that 8.6 million British holidaymakers could be putting themselves at risk of paying substantial medical or repatriation costs if they fall ill or hurt themselves abroad, and may even risk a delay in treatment.
Through a campaign with the Foreign Office, ABTA is encouraging holidaymakers to take out travel insurance as soon as they book their holiday, making sure that the insurance covers any medical conditions or activities they plan to do. ABTA is also advising travellers to keep a copy of the policy number and insurer?s contact details with them at all times while they are away.
Just over one in five (21%) holidaymakers said they travelled without insurance in the last year. Of these people, over a third (37%) said they didn?t think they needed travel insurance and more than a quarter (28%) said it was a risk they were willing to take.
The research also finds that only a third of people who have bought travel insurance in the past 12 months kept their insurance policy details on them at all times when away; while around one in 10 have left the information with family or friends back home or given it to a travel companion (13% and 9% respectively).
ABTA is also reminding people to make sure they take out a travel insurance policy as soon as they book their holiday ? this will help protect them should they need to cancel due to an unexpected event or illness.
Mark Tanzer Chief Executive of the travel association, said: ?Millions of holidaymakers are heading off abroad each year either without the right travel insurance in place - or without any insurance at all. This leaves people at risk of having to pay significant medical costs or even facing delays in their treatment. Our message is clear - don?t take the risk, take out travel insurance and make sure it covers you for your circumstances and holiday plans.
?It?s also really important holidaymakers carry a copy of their insurance on them at all times, as well as leaving a copy with family or friends back home. That way they?ll be able to contact their insurer quickly and without hassle, should they need to.?
Julia Longbottom, Director of Consular of Services at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: ?Most people enjoy trouble-free holidays overseas. However, I am concerned by these new figures showing that many British holidaymakers continue to travel without insurance. The risks are very clear. You could find yourself paying out thousands of pounds in medical bills if you don?t have insurance. It?s important to know the FCO cannot help fund medical bills if you or a family member are taken ill or hospitalised when abroad.
?Make sure you take out a travel insurance policy that meets your personal needs so you know you are covered should anything happen, and you can focus on having a relaxing holiday.?
For more tips on choosing the right travel insurance policy, visit abta.com/travelinsurance
