A recent survey of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed that nearly a third (32 per cent) have ventured abroad without travel insurance, with a significant proportion (21 per cent) facing unforeseen consequences as a result.
The study found that a quarter of those who travelled uninsured simply forgot to arrange cover, while a staggering 66 per cent deliberately chose not to bother.
The most common reasons for requiring insurance included unexpected illness (35 per cent), lost luggage (26 per cent), and theft of personal belongings (22%), according to the research conducted by loveholidays.
Those who found themselves in need of insurance were left with a substantial bill, averaging £1,570 per person, to cover additional expenses such as extended hotel stays (53 per cent), medical treatment and hospital bills (51 per cent), and new flights (43 per cent).
Furthermore, 18 per cent of respondents reported having to pay the full cost of a holiday they were unable to take due to unforeseen circumstances such as jury duty, pregnancy, or redundancy.
What hazards could spoil your holiday?
Al Murray, spokesperson for the online travel agent that commissioned the survey, commented: “Booking a holiday without travel insurance comes with risks, and our research indicates not all holidaymakers are aware of them.”
“Things outside of your control can prevent you from going on a holiday you’ve already booked, or affect you while you’re away, potentially leading to unexpected costs.”
Generally, 20 per cent will book their holiday cover right before their trip, with 28 per cent unaware it insures you from the moment you purchase it.
The survey also found that a significant 92 per cent of those who travelled without insurance and faced difficulties as a result now always book insurance for their trips.
“Making sure you have the right insurance in place from the moment you book your holiday helps to protect you from those costs, whether that’s medical bills, extra stays in hotels, repatriation flights, or even the cost of a holiday you’re no longer able to go on. “
With the study finding 52 per cent feel most adventurous when they are on holiday, Murray also stresses: “There’s nothing wrong with letting your hair down and having fun on holiday. But you do need to be careful, and having the right protection in place just in case something happens is key.”