A new study by Norwich Union travel insurance has revealed that a quarter of British holidaymakers travel without insurance putting themselves at risk of substantial bills for medical emergencies and stolen or lost property. These findings come despite the fact hard working Brits are now taking more holidays than ever on the back of low-cost flights, holiday homes and the popularity of short breaks.

Fifty percent of those who travelled without insurance say they risked it because they were "only taking a short break" and a further 14% just forgot to buy a policy. The study also revealed that men are much more likely (31%) than women (20%) to travel without cover.

Norwich Union's Travel Uncovered Report shows that the insurer paid over £43.5 million on travel insurance claims last year and also highlights exactly what we claim for, what travel insurance covers us for and why we need it.

The report also identifies a lack of knowledge among holidaymakers about why they need cover. Almost half or 42% of Brits wrongly believe they are most likely to claim for lost, stolen or damaged baggage. In fact, the reality is quite different with medical emergencies the biggest single cause of travel claims. Over £23 million was paid out by Norwich Union travel insurance for medical emergencies last year with the average claim totalling over £1,200. But it's not just the monetary compensation that travel insurance takes care of if you suffer medical problems in a foreign location. Extended accommodation, repatriation and advice are all important reasons for not chancing your luck on holiday.

According to Norwich Union, the top three reasons for claiming on a travel insurance policy are:

1. Medical emergency


2. Cancellation


3. Loss, theft or damage to baggage

Travel insurance underwriter at Norwich Union, Luis Berraondo said... "Holidaymakers put a lot of time and effort into their holiday from the hotel or villa to which airline and what baggage to take, but our research shows that often they don't think about the financial and emotional consequences if things go wrong".

Holidays should be times of fun and relaxation but something simple like a child falling over or tummy bug could mean footing an expensive medical bill if you haven't got a travel insurance policy to fall back on. And remember to buy a policy promptly after booking your holiday; that way if you do have to unavoidably cancel your holiday there is cover in place to compensate you.
And remember to read through your travel insurance policy documents to ensure you understand what you're covered for and what you're not.

Insurance Checklist for Travellers

1. Buy an insurance policy as early as possible after booking your holiday. Travel Insurance is often an afterthought, but if you have to cancel your holiday you won't get anything back if you haven't taken out travel insurance.


2. Declare any pre-existing medical conditions or problems to your travel insurer. Otherwise, your claim could be invalid, meaning you would be responsible for the entire costs of your medical treatment.


3. Understand your rights if your flight is cancelled or delayed. Under EU regulations for air passenger rights, all airlines departing from an airport in an EU member state have responsibilities to assist you.


4. Check your holiday destination on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website before travelling. You won't be covered if you travel to countries where you are putting yourself at risk.


5. Check the small print and know what you're buying. Understand what you want a policy to cover you for and don't pay for cover you don't need.