Brits booking summer holidays urged to make crucial checks to avoid costly mistake

As Brits gear up for the summer, a flurry of holidaymakers are set to secure their sunny getaways. But before you rush to secure your spot on the next flight out, there's an essential step you should not overlook to avoid unnecessary expenditure while enjoying your time off. Unforeseen setbacks such as flight disruptions, cancellations, or health issues could inadvertently inflate your vacation budget.

Luckily, safeguarding against these potential hiccups is possible with a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Crucially, securing your travel insurance early pays off since coverage commonly kicks in from the moment of purchase, not just when you start your holiday.

Therefore, if any complications arise before departure, whether they're related to travel or health conditions, you might be well protected.

Reading the small print can't be stressed enough; every policy has exclusions that may impact your cover during your overseas adventures.

Guidance from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) dictates: "When shopping around for travel insurance, make sure that the policy is right for your needs, and do not automatically opt for the cheapest.

"This is especially important if you have any pre-existing medical conditions."

The Foreign Office urges Britons to secure travel insurance as soon as their holiday is booked.

It's also recommended that you carry your policy details, including the policy number and emergency assistance phone number, when travelling abroad.

These details should also be shared with friends and family in case they need to contact your insurer on your behalf. Some travellers may opt for 'Cancel for Any Reason' (CFAR) insurance, which many believe offers a full refund if you need to cancel your trip.

However, these policies can be more costly and typically only refund between 50% and 70% of the total trip cost. They also usually need to be purchased well in advance to be valid.

It's crucial to remember that there isn't a one-size-fits-all insurance policy, so it's worth shopping around to find the best fit for your needs.