A Fifth of Holidaymakers Travel Uninsured
According to a survey by ABTA, 20 per cent of all holidaymakers travel uninsured, putting themselves at risk of high medical bills if they fall ill or have an accident abroad.
The over 65s fare slightly better, but 16 per cent still venture abroad without taking out appropriate cover.
With the winter ski season about to start, it is even more important to ensure suitable insurance cover as the cost of medical treatment and repatriation following a skiing accident can easily run into thousands of pounds.
Some travellers wrongly assume that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides full medical cover when travelling in Europe. But while the card gives UK residents access to state healthcare within the EU, it doesn’t cover for the cost of repatriation and some countries expect patients to pay treatment costs upfront.
Gordon Morris, Managing Director of Age UK Enterprises, said: “For older people it can often be difficult to get travel insurance, and even more so for activities like skiing and snowboarding. At Age UK Enterprises, we believe that people should continue to do the activities they love as long as they are able to – regardless of their age. This is why our insurance has no upper age limit and also offers cover for skiing holidays.
“Our advice to customers is to shop around for travel insurance that suits their individual needs and offers the best value for money. Always read the small print and check for any hidden charges, cancellation fees or exceptions that could invalidate a claim.”
Age UK Enterprises offers single and annual multi-trip Travel Insurance, provided by Ageas Insurance. Age UK Travel Insurance has no upper age limit and offers cover for pre-existing medical conditions wherever possible.
For more information visit www.ageuk.org.uk/travel
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