An expert has sounded the alarm over an urgent passport issue that could potentially ground four million Brits from their travel plans. Many holidaymakers could be unaware of this stumbling block that may put their 2025 getaways at risk.
Fresh figures gathered by Co-op Insurance via a Freedom of Information request disclose that in excess of four million UK passports are set to expire in this calendar year. A survey also found that one in 10 Brits have had their holiday hopes dashed in the past due to failure to renew their passports in time.
Although 72 percent of people in Britain are set to be gearing up for a holiday this year, figures show that around 10 million currently possess out-of-date passports, with another four million nearing expiry. Graham Ward-Lush, who heads travel at Co-op Insurance, cautioned: “Keeping your passport up to date is a crucial step that many of us neglect, which could result in disappointment and financial loss should it mean that you are unable to travel abroad as planned.
He added on the necessity of forward planning: “Some countries require at least three to six months of validity remaining on your passport before travelling, and it can take up to three weeks (or sometimes more) to renew UK passports, so it is always best not to leave it too late.”
Data revealed by the Co-op survey suggested that it’s the younger generations who are most often caught out by not renewing their passport timely enough. A staggering one in four people under 25 have missed out on their holiday getaways due to their travel licence running out of date. This echoes a larger issue where younger globetrotters are often found to be bypassing vital travel safety nets.
As reported by Express.co.uk, a quarter of 25 to 34 year olds set off on holiday without securing travel insurance. Additionally, almost one-third of youngsters between 16 and 24 years old have had to deal with serious accidents or sickness while abroad – a stark contrast to the less than one in 10 among the over-55s.
Data unearthed by Co-op Insurance highlighted that a staggering £21,000 was the heftiest clamed sum in 2024, a hefty bill for anyone travelling with no cover. Graham added: “Those travelling abroad should also seek sufficient insurance cover to have peace of mind that they are protected from incidents that may result in high medical expenses or loss of possessions.
“If you are unsure of your passport expiry date or the best insurance for you on your next trip, I advise you to look into your options without delay.”
Renewing your passport online costs £88.50, while a paper application costs £100. To find out more visit gov.uk/renew-adult-passport/renew.