Holiday Insurance

A new study by UK insurer Nationwide has revealed that many people are going on holiday without taking out adequate holiday insurance, leaving them at risk in the event of cancellation, medical emergency or theft of personal belongings.

Over one-third of those surveyed admitted they do not always take out holiday insurance when they go on holiday. Nationwide's survey results also revealed that nine out of ten people aged 25 to 34 are most likely to take out holiday insurance when they go on holiday; while one in five of holidaymakers in the 35 plus age range admitted to never asking for a travel insurance quote.

Meanwhile, differences were revealed in the uptake of holiday insurance on a region basis across the UK. Those living in the east are most likely to take out single trip or annual travel insurance, while those in the southwest are least likely to ask for a travel insurance quote, with a quarter admitting to never taking out either single trip or annual travel insurance.

When asked what precautions they take for keeping valuables, such as currency and passports, safe while on holiday, over half admitted to not always using a safety deposit box, over one-third of these choosing instead to keep them on their person.

Also, over half of those questioned holiday more than once a year, yet only a third of holidaymakers opt for annual travel insurance. This is despite recent research revealed great savings on annual travel insurance compared to individual travel insurance quotes bought separately throughout the year, especially where winter sports are concerned.

Nationwide's insurance director, Robin Bailey, commented: "It is astounding that people are prepared to take such a gamble when travelling abroad."

Adapted from an article © International Travel Insurance Journal with thanks.

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