Buying policies such as
online travel insurance could be as important as remembering your suitcase when heading out on a trip, according to an expert organisation.
The British Insurance Brokers' Association (Biba) said that travel insurance could be crucial for coping with accidents or emergencies while on a trip, but many people still see it as a surplus cost that's less of a priority.
In addition, travel insurance sorted out through agents is regulated through the Financial Services Authority (FSA) and problems are much less likely as a result.
Graeme Trudgill, technical and corporate affairs executive at Biba, said: "If something does go wrong abroad, you want to be able to phone someone who speaks your language who knows how to get someone to help you, [or] get you some medical attention and pay for it."
He added that specialist cover might be needed if backpackers will be mountain-climbing or horse-riding, but many travel agents still frequently fail to go through these details.
Agents selling policies such as
cheap travel insurance now have to make sure their staff convey all the right details, according to the FSA.
Going, going, gone. Downunder for
cheap travel insurance.
