27 June 2006 Travellers still taking insurance gamble
One in 12 holidaymakers will not take out travel insurance before they head off on their summer trips this year, according to new research.
The new figures from Sainsbury's Bank show that on average people will spend around £1,604 on their main holiday this year, yet nearly ten per cent of travellers will go without any holiday insurance.
As much as £2.07 billion worth of personal belongings will also be taken overseas uninsured, the company estimates.
Travel manager at Sainsbury's Bank, Robert O'May, said: "It's staggering that some 2.61 million people will risk losing a fortune this year by having no cover against a holiday calamity such as losing baggage, suffering an accident or injury and needing medical treatment or even having to cancel their trip altogether."
Even at the top end of the holiday market more than 146,000 people will spend over £2,000 on their travels this year and yet still choose not to purchase any kind of holiday cover.
Mr O'May also warns holidaymakers that they cannot use the new European EHIC card as an insurance policy commenting: "It provides emergency medical care only, which in some destinations may be very limited."
EHIC Cards can be obtained for free by contacting your local health service or can be applied for by mail at the post office for a fee of £2, your EHIC Card will then be posted to you within 21 days.
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