Health travel insurance a must for unforeseen events

New figures from Sainsbury’s Bank indicate that over 50 per cent of their travel insurance claims over the last five year period have been triggered by unforeseen medical emergencies and cancellations.

The new figures show that these factors were far more common than misplaced baggage, lost money or traveller’s cheques, and lost documents such as passports. According to Sainsbury’s Bank, the new figures illustrate the need for people going abroad to take out travel insurance to ensure that their health is covered.

Many travellers to Europe rely on the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), but those who do may be let down, the Bank warns. Robert O’May, the travel insurance manager at Sainsbury’s Bank, said: No one likes to think about things going wrong when they're about to set off on a trip abroad. However, it really is essential to organise good cover for yourself and family whether it's for a long weekend, a week's holiday or a more extended break, after all, an unforeseen misfortune could happen anytime.