Travel insurance: buying wise

Buying travel insurance before you go away is the easiest way to ensure that your holiday will go smoothly. Should you have an accident or fall ill while abroad, or encounter any other problem, you want to make sure that you will be looked after.

Amazingly, 15% of Brits still risk traveling abroad without travel insurance, which could result in financial ruin if they required medical treatment. To be returned to the UK in an emergency could cost you thousands of pounds so make sure you have adequate and appropriate travel insurance for your trip.

Travel insurance does not only look after you in the worst possible scenario, it will also provide you with a safety net against common problems such as lost or delayed baggage, flight delays, missed departure or cancellation.

Different insurers offer different levels of cover and it is important to shop around online before you buy. Below is a comparison of the advertised benefits of three single trip travel insurance policies. Each of these insurers is also able to tailor a travel insurance policy to meet your specific needs and more information is available on their websites.

If you are planning to make more than two trips this year, these insurers suggest that you consider a multi-trip or annual policy. More information about these policies and more can be found on their websites.

AA Travel Insurance • Emergency assistance while travelling – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year • Cancellation cover up to £5,000 per person • Cover for business travel included • Medical expenses up to £10 million • Discounts for couples and families • Winter sports, golf and wedding cover available

Go Travel Insurance • From £3.95 • Kids Go Free • Medical Expenses up to £10,000,000 • Cancellation and Curtailment up to £3,000 • 24 Hour Emergency Support

1Stop Travel Insurance • From £5.49 • Kids Go Free • Medical Expenses up to £10,000,000 • Cancellation & Curtailment up to £5,000 • 24 Hour Emergency Support