Travel insurance 'is an essential item'

Holidaymakers have been urged to purchase a travel insurance policy before jetting abroad this year.

Bob Atkinson, a travel expert at Moneysupermarket.com, said that whether people are taking cheap holidays in Spain or hitting the slopes for a ski break, travel cover should be considered an essential.

"On top of the usual standard criteria such as cancellation, baggage cover, and medical expenses, some policies may also include extras such as cover for sports equipment, ski pass, or going off-piste," he commented.

Mr Atkinson noted that family travel insurance for a week in Europe is available from as little as £10.

However, the cost of being air-lifted from the piste to a hospital in Switzerland is around £1,000, he added.

In related news, insurance provider More Than recently warned holidaymakers not to consume alcohol before skiing.

Research carried out by the company revealed that 74 per cent of people think that drinking heavily the night before they go skiing will affect their ability the following day.

Posted by Jamie Manterfield