Backpackers can ensure that their trips do not turn into complete disasters by checking their travel insurance policies before they set off, an expert says.
The recent collapse of XL Airways highlights the importance, whether you opt for
cheap travel insurance or
backpacker travel insurance, of checking the small print on the policy.
Meanwhile, Jeremy Moll from comparethemarket.com has highlighted the fact there are other ways that travellers who choose not to book their holiday with a travel operator can ensure they are protected from the current financial turmoil.
"Paying for a flight on a credit card should make it possible to claim back an airfare through the credit card provider," he advised.
"It's always worth checking with the airline to see if they have made any arrangements to help people come home should something happen."
XL Leisure Group went into administration on September 12th citing the rising cost of fuel. Grounding its 21 planes left 67,000 XL passengers stranded and 23,000 who booked via other companies with no means of returning home. The Civil Aviation Authority(CAA) also said the firm had 200,000 advance bookings.