Millions of people are exposing themselves to financial risks by failing to secure
online travel insurance through a renewal of their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Only about 293,000 people have recently renewed their details, leaving many more exposed to potentially expensive medical bills should they have an accident while on holiday in Europe.
Valid EHICs entitle backpackers and other holidaymakers to medical attention either without charge or at a reduced rate in most countries throughout Europe and replaced the E111 form four years ago.
Dawn Primarolo, the health minister, said: "It is vital that UK residents holidaying in Europe carry their EHIC and take out adequate travel insurance to avoid having to pay out unnecessarily for medical costs that could be covered by a valid EHIC."
The government has reminded Britons that some insurance policies need an EHIC in order to be properly validated.
EssentialTravel.co.uk recently reported that travellers could seek insurance to protect themselves from airline bankruptcies.
Downunder - the market leaders in online
backpacker travel insurance.