Urgent warning for travellers

Holidaymakers need to understand the importance of travel insurance now more than ever.

With a vast majority of the British population intending to travel abroad this year despite the current recession, the total amount spent on a holiday could end up costing more than it actually should even for those opting for a cheaper package holiday.

With the value of the British pound falling and the cost of medical treatment rising in many parts of the world, and even with the current economy possibly affecting the stability of the airline itself, insurers have warned holidaymakers to ensure they take out travel insurance if they really want to cut back on costs in the long run.

The managing director of Bath Business Travel said: "A total of 32 airlines collapsed last year leaving passengers stranded and facing expensive repatriation costs…The industry has already seen one airline collapse this year and as the recession deepens there will no doubt be more."

A spokesperson of insurer, Bupa Travel said: "You wouldn't want to be travelling, for business or leisure and not have the relevant cover…You could be looking at a bill for £40,000 upwards for treatment and that's just the medical treatment, not getting you home either."