More than half of all British holidaymakers have had to make a claim on their travel insurance after things went wrong before or during their trip – but not everyone is protected.
Two-thirds of young Brits are jetting off on their jollies without any travel insurance, with half of them convinced that nothing will go pear-shaped. This is despite the fact that research shows 29% of all holidaymakers have had to make a claim after things went south either before or during their trip, with the average claim totalling around a massive £4,500.
The top reasons for this include holidays being cancelled due to unexpected events like illness. Meanwhile, nearly half have had to dip into their policy because of lengthy travel delays, while 45% needed assistance following a medical emergency abroad.
However, a survey of 2,000 adults found that 58% of Gen Z and Millennial travellers have given travel insurance a miss because it’s too pricey.
Emily Barnett, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, which commissioned the research, said: “Taking out travel insurance should be as instinctive as booking your flights, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances, for example should you need to cancel before you depart.
“With the busy winter travel season upon us, whether it’s skiing in the Alps or a visit to the Christmas markets, it’s never been more important to make sure you have suitable cover in place before you set off.”
It also came to light that 41% have claimed for delayed or damaged luggage, while 40% needed their policy after falling victim to thieves abroad.
Others have been forced to turn to insurance after their hotel or travel firm let them down at the last minute, whilst 38% made a claim to get hold of medication whilst away.
But 16% weren’t aware their policy must meet the specific needs of their getaway – as certain trips, like winter sports holidays, require specialist coverage. This figure jumps to nearly a third amongst 18 to 24 year olds.
Regarding travel anxieties, the top concern amongst respondents is suffering a medical emergency whilst abroad (37%), followed by misplaced luggage (21%) and missing their flight (19%).
The research has sparked a powerful photo collection from Compare the Market, called ‘What Happened on Holiday’, created to emphasise how crucial it is to arrange insurance when booking your trip.
Emily Barnett added: “We’re urging Brits to protect their trips early to give themselves peace of mind, so they can focus on making memories instead of mishaps.”
TOP 10 MOST COMMON TRAVEL CLAIMS ACCORDING TO COMPARE THE MARKET:
- Trip cancellation (due to illness, injury, bereavement etc. )
- Travel delays (beyond a set time)
- Emergency medical treatment
- Emergency expenses
- Travel interruptions
- Delayed or damaged baggage
- Missed flights or connections
- Theft of items
- Hotel / travel company cancellation
- Prescriptions and medication