The FCO Travel Insurance Survey

Have you ever been on holiday without travel insurance? The Foreign & Commonwealth asked the same question during a recent survey.

They found out that 1 in every 5 UK travellers goes abroad without any. From those who participated in the survey, over a quarter of all the 15- 25 year olds are under the impression that the British Government will cover them in the event of an accident abroad.

This is a terrifying misconception, when you consider the following costs:

1) Being hospitalized abroad - the UK's National Health Service is a rare exception to the norm. In most other countries hospitals are the most expensive hotels in town, and will set you back thousands for just a night or two.

2) Being treated - medical treatment abroad is not free in almost every case. 3) Being repatriated - think about changing your ticket or booking a new one at the last minute, with no date preferences. Its expensive, isn't it? Without travel insurance you pay for it all yourself.

If you think splurging for a holiday burns, wait until you get your medical bills after getting home. It can be financially crippling.

The FCO conducted the survey as part of their Know Before You Go campaign, which highlights the importance of having travel insurance, amongst other things.

Yes, getting travel insurance is an annoying extra cost, but it protects you against something infinitely worse.