Travel insurance
Travel insurance may seem like an added expense on top of an already costly holiday, but it provides cover for a range of situations that are out of your control, and which, without it, could ruin your holiday.
The level and cost of cover varies according to how much protection you want, where you're travelling to, and how long for. So if you travel regularly, it may be more cost-effective for you to look at an annual multi-trip policy.
Travel insurance can cover you for things like:
- Replacement luggage and contents if yours is lost or damaged by the airline
- Compensation if you are delayed or diverted on the way there or back
- Medical expenses including being flown home in the event of illness or accident that means you miss your original return flight
- Theft or loss of your passport, cash, camera or other belongings
You will generally be offered insurance when you book your holiday, but you don't have to take their cover, and it definitely pays to shop around.
At a glance:
- Covers you for the loss of cash, cards and personal items while away
- Will pay for medical treatment abroad if needed potentially very costly
- Is widely available and can be bought online with instant cover